Natural Resources Analyst

~ Since 1973, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has served as the state’s regulatory agency charged with protecting, conserving and enhancing Wyoming’s land, air and water for the benefit of current and future generations. ~

Our scientists and professional staff contribute to the quality of life in Wyoming through a combination of monitoring, permitting, inspection, enforcement, restoration and remediation activities that support responsible stewardship of our state’s natural resources.

Whether you are a homeowner wondering about a project being planned in your neighborhood, an interest group seeking information or a company seeking to establish operations in Wyoming, we are here to answer your questions.

Position Overview

The Natural Resource Analyst will perform quality assurance and quality control reviews and analysis of water quality monitoring plans, data, and reports. Provide technical expertise to other staff with regards to quality assurance and quality control matters. Manage functions associated with a Quality Assurance/Quality Control program to ensure compliance with state and federal requirements.

Responsibilities

• Reviews, using standard Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QAQC) procedures, chemical, physical, and biological water quality monitoring data.
• Makes independent judgment on QAQC reviews and provides summary of conclusions and recommendations in written format.
• Conducts field audits and provides written reports summarizing audit findings.
• Provides QAQC training to staff.
• Provides technical expertise to other staff with regards to QAQC matters.
• Provides QAQC for data entered into Surface Water Monitoring (SWM) database.
• Reviews and approves Sampling and Analysis Plans.
• Assists with revisions to existing Water Quality Division (WQD) QAQC related documents (e.g. Quality Assurance Project Plan, Standard Operating Procedures) and develops additional QAQC guidance documents as needed.
• Reviews WQD Laboratory sample analysis procedures in accordance with National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program certification procedures.
• May assist the WQD Laboratory with sample preparation and analysis as needed.
• Provides technical support to other programs within the Watershed Protection Program as needed.
• Conducts and evaluates basic modeling of pollutant transport in the environment.
• Answers questions from the public and makes presentations to various interest groups.

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed in the job level.

Qualifications

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of QAQC procedures.
• Knowledge of water quality chemistry.
• Knowledge of chemical, physical, and biological water quality monitoring methods.
• Knowledge of water quality sample analysis methods.
• Knowledge of National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program standards.
• Knowledge of the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act and the WQD's rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ability to be resourceful, solve complex problems, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to travel and work in the field, sometimes under adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and coordinate with other personnel.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral, with particular proficiency in explaining complex technical and/or regulatory issues and concerns to varied audiences.
• Ability to document work and maintain records.
• Skill in interpersonal relationships, including sharing information with colleagues, federal/state agency personnel, industry representatives, and the public.
• Skill with standard word processing and data base programs and the ability to quickly learn and use other data base and modeling software.
• Ability to organize information from multiple sources in a way that is readily accessible for distribution.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's (typically in The Sciences).

PLUS

Experience:

• 0-3 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Specialist.

OR

Education & Experience Substitution:

• 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Specialist.

Notes:

• FLSA: Exempt.
• Must have a valid Driver's License.
• This position requires the ability to walk/hike in rugged terrain, and conduct field work in wet, slippery, cold, and muddy conditions.
• Travel throughout the state is required.