Individual Placement- Watershed Management

The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is hiring for an Individual Placement role in Watershed Management based in Jackson, MS. The position supports the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality in developing watershed protection plans and engaging stakeholders. Responsibilities include public outreach, project management, and developing nutrient reduction strategies. Ideal candidates are pursuing degrees in environmental fields and may participate in fieldwork. The role runs from June 8, 2026, to August 29, 2026.
Position Summary


The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) is responsible for protecting the state's air, land, and water. Our mission is to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of present and future generations of Mississippians by conserving and improving our environment and fostering wise economic growth through focused research and responsible regulation. This role will be in support of the Basin Management and Nonpoint Source Branch, housed within the Surface Water Division. This branch endeavors to conserve and improve State waters through focused research, widespread education, and cooperation with other agencies and the public. In this role, the applicant will support mid- and senior-level employees in a wide variety of tasks, including stakeholder engagement, development of watershed protection plans, conservation project management, and nutrient reduction model development. The applicant will work with a wide variety of stakeholders including scientists, engineers, teachers, public employees, private entities, and the general public.





Location


Jackson, MS





Schedule


June 8, 2026 - August 29, 2026





Key Duties and Responsibilities



Assist in the development and vetting of updated nutrient reduction strategies for the state of Mississippi;
Participate in public outreach and stakeholder engagement, both in person and virtually;
Develop and manage watershed implementation plans and education/outreach projects funded through Section 319 grants. Reviews proposal, manages subgrant development, performs project monitoring, and develops reports in compliance with grant requirements;
Participate in the design and testing of a nutrient reduction estimation model;
Develop outreach materials for a wide variety of audiences;
Attend conservation education programs that focus on continuing education for teachers.




Marginal Duties



In addition to the duties described above, applicants have the option to participate in field work (as needed) including in-person site inspections, stream surveys, and geologic investigation/field mapping. Applicants wishing to engage in field work should be able to lift 50 lbs and be capable of walking or standing for an extended period of time. Field conditions may have the potential for adverse weather, uneven surfaces, and interactions with wildlife.




Required Qualifications


Ideally, applicants should be pursuing an education with a focus on environmental science, conservation, or science education. Potential degree paths include, but are not limited to geology, hydrology, biology, chemistry, ag science, conservation, natural resources, ecology, sustainability, and science education. Applicants with a background in environmental policy will also be considered.





Preferred Qualifications



Understanding of watershed dynamics and the role of nonpoint source pollution in a variety of landscapes;
Familiarity with NRCS best management practices;
Knowledge of or experience with mapping tools such as ArcGIS or Google Maps;
Knowledge of or experience with environmental models and/or modeling software;
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite;
Experience with AI or Language Learning Models;
Communications training or experience working with the public.




Hours


40 per week





Living Accommodations


Applicants are responsible for providing their own living arrangements.





Compensation


Living Allowance: $600/week


Housing Allowance: $1,000/month (three months)


Relocation Allowance: $1,100 (paid once with first paycheck)


All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.





Personal Vehicle Information


Required





Additional Benefits





AmeriCorps: Not Eligible





Equal Opportunity Statement


The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.