Biologist

The Biologist position at the Sabine River Authority of Texas involves collecting biological and water quality data to support conservation programs. Responsibilities include managing the Water Quality Monitoring Program, conducting biological surveys, and performing field investigations. Candidates need a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least one year of experience in water quality analysis or biological surveys. The role is based at the Upper Basin Field Office in Quitman, TX.
About the position

The Biologist position at the Sabine River Authority of Texas is focused on the collection of biological and water quality data essential for various conservation and monitoring programs. This role is critical in supporting the Clean Rivers Program and other initiatives aimed at maintaining the ecological health of the Sabine River Basin. The successful candidate will work out of the Upper Basin Field Office and will be responsible for a range of tasks that contribute to the overall mission of the organization. The Biologist will assist in the development, implementation, and scheduling of the Water Quality Monitoring Program, which includes conducting special studies and other water quality projects under the supervision of the Natural Resources Management Director. Daily operations at the Upper Basin Field Office will also fall under the purview of this role, ensuring that all activities align with the organization's goals. The position requires the collection of water quality data, which will be submitted to the Environmental Services Division (ESD) laboratory for comprehensive analyses. In addition to data collection, the Biologist will conduct biological surveys for various aquatic species, including mussels, fish, turtles, and benthic macro-invertebrates. The role also involves conducting aquatic resource relocation projects and field investigations related to pollution complaints and fish kills. The Biologist will prepare written reports as necessary and conduct habitat assessments and improvement operations. This position may also require performing other duties as assigned by the Natural Resources Management Director or other management personnel.

Responsibilities
• Assist in development, implementation, and scheduling of the Water Quality Monitoring Program for the Sabine River Basin streams and reservoirs.
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• Conduct the daily operations of the Upper Basin Field Office.
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• Collect water quality data and submit samples to the ESD laboratory for analyses.
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• Operate and maintain all regular and special field equipment and instruments.
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• Conduct biological surveys for mussels, fish, turtles, aquatic plants, and benthic macro-invertebrates.
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• Conduct aquatic resource relocation projects.
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• Conduct field investigations of pollution complaints and fish kills.
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• Prepare written reports as needed.
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• Conduct habitat assessments and habitat improvement operations.
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• Perform any other duties assigned by the Natural Resources Management Director or other management.

Requirements
• A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in a biological or environmental science or closely related field from an accredited college or university.
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• A minimum of one-year prior experience in water quality analyses, water quality monitoring field work, biological surveys, or a combination of all.
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• Familiarity with general ecological field and laboratory procedures.
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• Ability to make unbiased observations and interpretations of analytical data.
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• Good scientific writing skills.
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• Ability to perform minor maintenance on field instruments and equipment.
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• Ability to swim, walk long distances, and safely lift at least 75 pounds waist high.
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• Certification in SCUBA diving; experience in low visibility and adverse conditions is a plus.
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• Ability to operate a boat with a motor, including launching, loading, and unloading the boat.
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• Physically able to lift and carry field equipment required for water quality sampling and field analysis.
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• Capable of communicating and relating positively to members of the general public and state agencies.
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• Proficient in Microsoft Office and have a good working knowledge of desktop computers in general.
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• Valid Driver's License and a good driving record.
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• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours and during inclement weather.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits