Hydrologist - Hydrologist 3

The Hydrologist 3 position at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency involves managing cleanups and long-term maintenance at various sites to protect human health and the environment. Responsibilities include data collection, hydrogeologic decision-making, and coordinating investigations of contaminant releases. Candidates need a relevant degree and experience in hydrology. The role is full-time, eligible for telework, with a work schedule from Monday to Friday and potential travel up to 10%.
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 informed 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 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 assess the risks posed to impacted aquifers. A thorough understanding of the Closed Landfill Program (CLP) is essential, as is a strong technical and scientific background in hydrogeology. The decisions made in this role will significantly impact safe drinking water supplies, ground and surface water resources, zoning ordinances, and budget considerations. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including colleagues, contractors, and the public. The MPCA is committed to equity and inclusion, providing employees with benefits, support resources, and opportunities for training and development. This role is full-time and eligible for telework, with a work schedule from Monday to Friday during day shift hours. Travel may be required up to 10% of the time, depending on the needs of the projects.

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, and upload data to databases.
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• Assist in active remediation and land management projects.
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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 aquifers.
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• Maintain detailed knowledge of the Closed Landfill Program (CLP) and relevant technical and scientific background in hydrogeology.

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 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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• Flexible scheduling and telework options.
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• Professional development and training opportunities.