Hydrogeologist

The Hydrogeologist position at Santa Fe County involves representing the County on hydrologic matters, developing water resource plans, and conducting evaluations of water resources. Responsibilities include managing hydrologic models, supervising staff, providing technical expertise, and advising on regulatory requirements. The role requires knowledge of water laws and geohydrological techniques, as well as strong communication skills. A Bachelor's degree in Geology or related fields is required.
Represents the County on hydrologic and water resource matters; develops and evaluates hydrological plans and programs; creates, evaluates and maintains models, databases, programs, and GIS products for the utilization and preservation of water resources in the County; evaluates technologies to develop water sources and promote conservation; represents the County in joint City, partnership, and regional plans and projects.
• Investigates and evaluates water resources in the County; renders written opinions on hydrology-related topics utilizing all available relevant data; designs, executes, and analyzes field investigations and hydrologic surveys of surface and ground water resources.
• Communicates with other entities and the public on water-related matters; works with Utilities Department Director in representing the County on joint City, partnership, or regional plans and projects, including the Buckman Direct Diversion; develops and manages the County Conjunctive Use Strategy Well Drilling program, utilizing the County hydrologic model.
• Develops and manages County hydrologic and geologic contracts; evaluates new technologies related to water resources and conservation; coordinates and consults with other interested, involved parties; supervises hydrology review specialist and oversees permit reviews; analyzes and critiques hydrologic, geologic and other technical reports for development proposals.
• Provides technical expertise to the Board of County Commissioners and Land Use staff, boards, and committees; advises Public Works Department on applicable local, state and federal statutes and regulations; consults with and advises architects, developers and property owners about regulatory and statutory requirements as related to both surface and ground water hydrology.
• Prepares graphical and technical verbal presentations related to surface and ground water; provides factual or expert witness testimony as needed in court actions to present and defend County decisions related to geology and hydrology.

Knowledge / Skills:
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and codes related to water, water rights, and environment; principles and techniques involved in the development and maintenance of a comprehensive geohydrological data base; and the methods of statistical analysis. Skill in budget preparation and implementation. Knowledge of well drilling, testing, and completion techniques, and the methods of evaluation of research data.
• Skill in managing and supervising assigned personnel.
• Ability to conduct valid scientific appraisal and analysis of proposals and reports submitted to the County; to prepare accurate, complete and legible reports and give presentations for a variety of audiences; coordinate water planning studies; communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and apply County, State, Federal laws, regulations and procedures applicable to hydrologic issues.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associate personnel, boards and committees, property owners, community partners, and the public.
• Ability to operate various word-processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software programs, as well as well drilling and hydrogeology equipment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Geohydrology, or related earth science, or a closely related field, plus four (4) years of experience in urban, regional or community hydrologic, geologic, or environmental analysis; or a Master’s degree in Geology, Hydrology, or closely related field with two (2) years’ experience.
• Must have experience developing and evaluating hydrological plans and programs, creating/evaluating/maintaining models, databases, programs, and GIS products.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed primarily in an office environment and occasionally outdoors in varied weather conditions with exposure to dust, fumes, airborne particles and/or allergens. Work may involve high risk or potentially dangerous situations; exposure to hazardous materials; excessive noise; and hostile or offensive individuals. Work may require the use of protective clothing, equipment, devices or materials. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to stand, walk, and sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands or arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch; and talk or hear. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Clarity of vision at long distance and short distance is required. Occasional evening and weekend work is required. Occasional overnight travel is required.

Conditions of Employment:

Selected candidate must submit to and pass a County paid pre-employment physical and drug/alcohol screening. Additionally, selected candidate must submit to and pass a County paid background screening. Must possess a valid New Mexico Class D driver’s license, as incumbent will be required to drive a Santa Fe County vehicle while conducting County business. Candidate must obtain and/or maintain all certifications required.