Hydrologist - Hydrologist 3

The Hydrologist 3 position at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency focuses on managing cleanups and operations at contaminated sites to protect human health and the environment. Responsibilities include data collection, hydrogeologic investigations, and providing expertise on remediation projects. A Bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of experience are required. The role offers telework eligibility with occasional travel and is classified as exempt under FLSA.
About the position

The Hydrologist 3 position at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is a critical role focused on the management of cleanups and long-term operation and maintenance activities at various assigned sites. The primary responsibility of this position is to ensure that these sites do not pose a threat to human health or the environment through effective hydrogeologic decision-making. The role involves a variety of support activities, including data collection, data review and analysis, database uploads, active remediation efforts, and assistance with land management and other special projects. In addition to these responsibilities, the Hydrologist 3 will provide hydrologic expertise at sites where contaminants have been released. This includes evaluating, conducting, directing, and coordinating hydrogeologic investigations to determine the extent and magnitude of contamination and the associated risks to impacted aquifers. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the Closed Landfill Program (CLP) and a solid technical and scientific background in hydrogeology to make informed decisions that affect safe drinking water supplies, ground and surface water resources, zoning ordinances, and budget considerations. The incumbent will be expected to possess a working knowledge of chemistry, toxicology, and hydrology, along with the skills necessary to provide technical reviews and recommendations for complex closed landfill remediation projects. Leadership capabilities are also essential, as the Hydrologist 3 will guide less-experienced hydrologists in their work. The position is full-time and offers telework eligibility, with a work schedule from Monday to Friday during day shift hours. Travel may be required up to 10% of the time, and the role is classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Responsibilities
• Support overall management of cleanups and long-term operation and maintenance activities at assigned sites.
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• Conduct hydrogeologic decision-making to ensure sites do not pose a threat to human health or the environment.
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• Perform data collection, review, and analysis, including database uploads and active remediation efforts.
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• Assist with land management and other special projects as needed.
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• Evaluate, conduct, direct, and coordinate hydrogeologic investigations at sites with contaminant releases.
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• Determine the extent and magnitude of contamination and assess risks to impacted aquifers.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, or a closely related field.
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• Three years of professional experience as a Hydrologist or equivalent, including hydrologic project oversight.
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• Working knowledge of chemistry, toxicology, and hydrology.
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• Demonstrated ability to design, conduct, and coordinate hydrological field investigations.
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• Good communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.
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• Possess a valid Class D Driver's license.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience working with closed landfills or other remediation projects.
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• Knowledge of the Minnesota Landfill Cleanup Act and state and federal solid and hazardous waste rules.
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• Technical knowledge of contaminant chemical characteristics and public health risks of petroleum releases.
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• Ability to analyze complex technical data and reports.
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• Experience leading program staff and contractors to meet established timetables and quality standards.

Benefits
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
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• Paid holidays and vacation time.
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• Retirement savings plan options.
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• Professional development opportunities.
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• Flexible scheduling options.