Environmental Scientist-Chemistry Specialist I/II

East Central University is hiring an Environmental Scientist-Chemistry Specialist I/II for the Oka Institute in Ada, OK. This full-time role involves fieldwork and laboratory analysis related to water quality and environmental monitoring. Responsibilities include data collection, equipment maintenance, collaboration on water policies, and technical writing. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 2 years of experience in laboratory and field settings.
Position: Environmental Scientist-Chemistry Specialist I/II
Organization: Oka’ Institute
Reports to: Director of Oka/ CURL Lab Manager
Type: Full-Time Exempt

Job Overview:
The Oka Institute is seeking a motivated and dedicated individual to join our team as an
Environmental Scientist. This position plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of the
Oka Institute, which is to address water quality solutions through water research, land
stewardship, water policy, and the promotion of sustainable communities. As an
Environmental Specialist, you will work on water quality and environmental monitoring in
watersheds, equally supporting both field and laboratory-based efforts.

Responsibilities:

Field and Laboratory
• Participate in fieldwork, including data collection, site assessments, and environmental
monitoring
• Calibration and maintenance of scientific equipment/instrumentation to ensure data
quality and maximal longevity
• Complete laboratory analyses using promulgated methods for a wide range of
technologies:
• Assist in method development and refinement for water and soil quality analyses,
collaborating with researchers on experimental design and data interpretation

Collaborator Engagement and Technical Writing
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to contribute to the development of water
policies, research studies, and community engagement initiatives.
• Stay current on emerging trends, technologies, and advancements in environmental
sciences, watershed management, and natural resources.
• Prepare data narratives, journal articles, and presentations that effectively
communicate research findings and recommendations to both internal and external
stakeholders.

Data Review and Analysis
• Perform independent analysis and interpretation of environmental data to draw
meaningful conclusions and recommendations.
• Enter and manage field and laboratory data using software tools and GIS platforms;
create both digital and print mapping products.
• To ensure data of know quality, participate and adhere to quality assurance
requirements of the facility including, data review, writing and revising procedural
documents, and internal audits

Qualifications:
• Minimum of bachelor’s degree in chemistry, hydrology, geochemistry,
environmental sciences, or a related field.
• 2+ years working in a laboratory setting and field sampling.
• Strong passion for environmental science, conservation, and sustainable practices.
• Written and verbal communication skills that facilitates effective translation of
complex scientific findings into clear messages for the intended audience.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in the field and with lab teams.
• Proficiency in standard software tools for data entry, analysis, and reporting.

Experience:
• Demonstrated experience with field-based environmental monitoring and lab-based
analytical methods.
• Aptitude to learn and implement analytical methods and laboratory techniques
related to water or soil quality. This includes writing standard operating procedures
and data collection forms.
• Laboratory work using promulgated methods for a wide range of technologies:
spectrophotometric, microbiological (enzyme-substrate and plate-based), pH, ICPOES, TOC combustion analyzers, multi-analyte probes

Preferences:
- Laboratory work conducted under a quality management system, i.e. ISO
17025.
- Experience using GIS for data collection, analysis, and visualization.

East Central University, in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admission, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Employment Services Director, 1100 E. 14th St., Danley Hall 111, Ada, OK 74820, (580) 559-5260.