Scientist 3, Hydrogeology

~The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is a regional governmental agency that manages the water resources in the southern half of the state, covering 16 counties from Orlando to the Florida Keys and serving a population of 8.1 million residents. ~

It is the oldest and largest of the state's five water management districts. Created in 1949, the agency is responsible for managing and protecting water resources of South Florida by balancing and improving flood control, water supply, water quality and natural systems.

A key initiative is the restoration of America's Everglades - the largest environmental restoration project in the nation's history. The District is also working to improve the Kissimmee River and its floodplain, Lake Okeechobee and South Florida's coastal estuaries. 

Position Overview

As a Scientist 3 - Hydrogeology, responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to: performing reviews for water use permit applications, guiding the public through the review process, conducting pre-application meetings, conducting occasional site visits, participating in collaborative efforts with other areas of the Bureau and District, providing information and/or data gathering, attending meetings, and providing input relative to areas of expertise.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the review of consumptive water use permit applications in accordance with applicable statute, rules and criteria as found in Chapter 373, Part II Florida Statute, Chapter 62-40 Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 40E-2 Florida Administrative Code, and the Applicant’s Handbook for Water Use Permit Applications Within the South Florida Water Management District and accepted hydrogeologic and surface water hydrology principles.
• The position is responsible for performing a wide range of complex, routine scientific-related work requiring application of a solid working knowledge of hydrogeological concepts, methods, and practices developed through a combination of on-the-job experience and formal training programs.
• An understanding of groundwater modeling practices, including analytical and numerical models is preferred.
• In addition, the position requires demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in an environment targeted at meeting tight deadlines.
• The position requires attention to detail and excellent organizational skills along with a proven ability to articulate credibly and professionally in written and verbal format with the regulated community, the public, federal, state, and local entities and District staff at all levels relative to regulatory permit and compliance issues is necessary.
• Depending on the nature and complexity of the work, tasks and assignments are performed under close to moderate supervision with specific instructions provided.
• Work products are reviewed for technical accuracy and overall quality, as well as application of sound professional judgment.
• Detailed and constructive feedback from supervisor is provided on work assignments to enhance overall development.

Qualifications

Employment Guidelines:

• Typically has a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field and 2+ years of related experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within the scientific discipline that can be applied to support the District's strategic goals and objectives.
• Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Agricultural Engineering or related field may also be considered.
• A high level of proficiency using computer software (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Word, and Adobe Acrobat) is required.
• Experience with the South Florida Water Management District regulatory water use and compliance databases, business processes, and rules are preferred.
• Interest in career development, including working towards a professional certification (P.G. or P.E.) is desirable.
• Depending on education, experience, and / or other qualifications, this position may be filled at the Scientist 2 level.
• Typically has a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field and 1+ years of related experience that demonstrates measurable career progression within the scientific discipline that can be applied to support the District's strategic goals and objectives.
• Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Agricultural Engineering or related field may also be considered.

Licenses:

• Valid State of Florida Driver’s License required.

Physical Requirements/ Work Environment:

• Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position will be required to provide support before, during and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes and other declared emergencies, depending on the assigned emergency response role.