Environmental Scientist

The State of California is hiring an Environmental Scientist for a 12-month limited term position in Bishop, CA, focusing on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance and management. The role involves fieldwork, data collection, and may include telework options. Candidates must have a relevant degree and may need to pass an exam. The job requires physical activity outdoors and occasional meetings in Sacramento.
### Job Description and Duties
Are you interested in an opportunity to join a dynamic and diverse team at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife? Learn more about this unique position!

Under the close supervision of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisor) the incumbent will provide the less difficult and responsible field and data collection support for a USDA-funded project to support Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance, response, and management priorities within CWD management and adjacent zones. Will work closely with the Wildlife Health Lab’s (WHL) Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Management Team.
• *This position is a 12-month Limited Term (LT) and may be extended up to 24 months or become permanent.**

In order to be eligible for this position, you must either be transfer eligible or take and pass the following exam.

Environmental Scientist: Exam Bulletin Link

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
### Working Conditions
Work irregular hours including weekends and holidays and to travel via private or public transportation in performing field work throughout the State. Perform necropsies and collect biological samples from deceased deer and elk, speak with hunters, and spend hours outside in variable weather.

Field activities may include strenuous physical activity in variable weather conditions for up to 10 hours outdoors in remote areas with uneven terrain. May lift heavy and irregular items (up to 40 lbs.). Ability to drive for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours) and wear a uniform, if required. Office setting requires using computer keyboard at least several hours a day and involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods. Occasional meetings at Sacramento-area offices required. In addition to working with Sacramento-based staff, may interact with Branch and Regional staff and members of the public, in the field, via email and telephone.
Work primarily in an office setting. The position may require the incumbent to wear a uniform identifying the employee as CDFW staff. This position offers the possibility of an office-centered telework agreement based on the Department's current Telework Policy.

This position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Accrual Credit

## Minimum Qualifications
Education: Possession of a bachelor's or advanced degree with a major in a biological, chemical, physical, or environmental science, soil science, water science, hydrology, agronomy, natural resource science, environmental or public health, physical geography, or a closely related scientific discipline. (Admission to a masters or doctoral degree program in a biological, chemical, physical, or environmental science, soil science, water science, hydrology, agronomy, natural resource science, environmental or public health, physical geography, or a closely related scientific discipline shall be considered to meet these education qualifications.)

Education as indicated above. (Registration as a senior in a recognized institution will admit applicants to the examination, but they must produce evidence of a degree before they can be considered eligible for appointment.)

## Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of: Basic principles of land, water, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources research; principles of ecology; soil and irrigation sciences, resource management, hydrology, geology, and waste prevention; statistical methods; land-use practices with reference to their general effect on human health, natural resources, agricultural productivity, and the environment; effects of hazardous and non-hazardous waste material and their interactions on the environment; chemical reactions; California and Federal environmental laws, rules, regulations, and requirements; basic toxicology, hydrology, geology, and principles of risk assessment and risk management; concepts employed in a variety of disciplines including environmental planning, economics, and resource management; geolocation and geo-referencing software applications, resource conservation program impacts and implementation strategies; and recycling issues.

Ability to: Apply or modify scientific methods and principles; collect environmental data; analyze and evaluate data and reach sound conclusions; review, check, and interpret scientific and environmental reports; analyze situations and take appropriate actions; establish and maintain cooperative relations with all persons contacted; communicate effectively; prepare clear, complete, and technically accurate reports; apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, and requirements of California and Federal environmental protection and resource management programs; assess the impact of proposed State and Federal environmental legislation and regulations; understand principles of risk assessment and risk management; work with professionals from a variety of disciplines within and outside of State government; and review and understand technical research reports on emerging public health and environmental issues.

## Additional Desirable Qualifications
In appraising the relative qualifications of candidates, consideration will be given to the extent and type of pertinent experience and education over and above that required under "Minimum Qualifications. Experience in management, research, planning, or consultation in environmental programs, demonstrated environmental management skills, and knowledge of broad principles of economics , social science, and political science will be given preference.

Some positions within the Department of Health Services may require possession of a valid certificate of registration as an Environmental Health Specialist in the State of California pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 514-534.