Working Title: Groundwater Researcher Job Class: Research Scientist 3 Agency: Pollution Control Agency Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 01/17/2024 Closing Date: 02/16/2024 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE Division/Unit: Environmental Analysis & Outcomes / Environmental Analysis & Groundwater Services Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: No Salary Range: $35.13 - $52.25 / hourly; $73,351 - $109,098 / annually Job Class Option: Groundwater Classified Status: Classified FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional Telework Eligible: Yes - Full-time telework eligible Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes *This position may be located at one of the MPCA office locations: Duluth, Brainerd, St. Paul, Rochester, Detroit Lakes, Marshall or Mankato. Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans. The work you'll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota. Job Summary Job Summary This position exists to lead groundwater-surface water interaction research for the MPCA, and to provide technical expertise on numerical groundwater modeling. The first responsibility of this position is to utilize the Sentinel Lakes surface and groundwater monitoring network and similar networks and data sets to conduct research on groundwater-surface water interactions, including climate change related effects. The second responsibility of this position is to serve as a technical expert for the Agency on rulemakings directly related to, or that may have impact on, Minnesota's groundwater resources. The third responsibility of this position is to provide technical support to projects involving numerical groundwater modeling, as needed by other programs across the Agency. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications A Master of Science degree in hydrogeology, geology, geophysics, environmental engineering, water resources, natural sciences, or a closely related field and three (3) years of experience investigating shallow groundwater behavior, modeling subsurface flow and/or aqueous geochemical processes, and developing conclusions and recommendations. A Doctoral degree in one of those areas of experience listed above will count towards one year of experience. Candidates must have strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others across environmental programs and research activities. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Preferred Qualifications Experience with analytical and numerical groundwater modeling methods. Experience evaluating time series data. Geostatistics expertise. Experience interpreting and modeling aqueous geochemistry. Familiarity with the surficial and bedrock geology of Minnesota. Familiarity with water quality sensors including quality control and analysis of water quality sensor data. An understanding of the Clean Water Act and associated federal regulations, particularly those related to water quality standards. Experience with developing water quality standards to protect human health. Knowledge of scientific, experimental and research techniques sufficient to understand, design and conduct comprehensive and sophisticated scientific research. Physical Requirements Requires occasionally lifting and/or carrying such as articles as file folders, ledgers, and small equipment. Although a sedentary job is defined as one which involves sitting, a certain amount of walking and standing is often necessary in carrying out job duties. Additional Requirements Position duties may require travel but driving is not a minimum qualification or essential function of t is position. Employees who may drive for state business will need their driver's license checked prior to operating a state vehicle. Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers . If you have questions about the position, contact Donovan Baugh at D [email protected] . To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Donovan Baugh at D [email protected] . About Pollution Control Agency Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions. Why Work for Us Diverse Workforce We are committed to continually developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our state and the populations we serve. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve the people of Minnesota. A recent engagement survey of State of Minnesota employees found: 95% of employees understand how their work helps achieve their agency's mission 91% of employees feel trusted to do their jobs 88% of employees feel equipped to look at situations from other cultural perspectives when doing their job 87% of employees report flexibility in their work schedule Comprehensive Benefits Our benefits aim to balance four key elements that make life and work meaningful: health and wellness, financial well-being, professional development, and work/life harmony. As an employee, your benefits may include: Public pension plan Training and professional development Paid vacation and sick leave 11 paid holidays each year Paid parental leave Low-cost medical and dental coverage Prescription drug coverage Vision coverage Wellness programs and resources Employer paid life insurance Short-term and long-term disability Health care spending and savings accounts Dependent care spending account Tax-deferred compensation Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. The State of Minnesota recognizes that a diverse workforce is essential and strongly encourages qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply. We will make reasonable accommodations to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] and indicate what assistance is needed.