Under the general guidance of supervisors, the Research Scientist 1, BWAM, will support LMAS programs and applied research efforts to develop lake water and sediment quality monitoring and assessment tools and the collection, analysis, and interpretation of water quality and biological data from lakes across New York State (NYS).
The candidate will also be responsible for conducting research, providing input, and understanding potential water quality impacts resulting from sediment dredging, energy transmission line installation, offshore wind energy, and other projects resulting in-water sediment disturbance. This position will also support, track, and coordinate regional DOW approach to sediment related projects.
Under the technical and administrative supervision of the supervisor, the successful candidate will be responsible for:
Applied Research and Data Analysis
- Conduct research, literature review, data collection and analysis, and interpretation of water, biological, and habitat quality in lakes, ponds, and reservoirs across NYS to evaluate overall ecosystem health. Assist with study design and research to develop tools for physical, chemical, and biological assessment in lakes, assist in developing water quality standards and guidance values, understand emerging threats to water quality such as emerging contaminants and harmful algal blooms.
- Conduct research, literature review, and data analysis and interpretation related to sediment disturbance, environmental impacts of energy transmission projects, sediment quality, and sediment disposal options as it relates to water quality and other environmental indicators to ensure sediment monitoring protocols and sediment handling are appropriate and reflective of current practices. Evaluate relationship between sediment contamination, water quality, and fish consumption advisories.
- With other scientists, assist in developing papers for peer-reviewed publication by summarizing findings from the LMAS monitoring and assessment programs, special studies, and existing data sources. Present findings to supervisors, higher level staff, and to the public
Program Coordination and Support
- Under the supervision of LMAS staff, assist with equipment maintenance, quality assurance plan development, field preparation and sampling, data analysis and interpretation, GIS mapping, and database outputs, and water quality report preparation for LCI, CSLAP, HABs, and other programs in BWAM.
- Under the supervision of LMAS staff, act as a central office DOW point of contact for SAM Program projects to coordinate regional response to sediment projects, develop and maintain a tracking system for statewide SAM Program project review, and update and maintain the historical DOW sediment program database.
- Provide technical review and oversight of projects and permit applications involving in-water disturbance of sediment such as remedial and navigational dredging and clean energy infrastructure projects.
- Create, maintain, and update quality assurance and quality controls documents and procedures for the SAM Program.
Preferred Additional Qualifications:
? Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills; comfortable with public speaking.
- Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting limnological, biological, and other environmental data.
- Understanding of State and Federal regulations and water quality standards.
- Knowledge of environmental contaminants and their behavior in the environment.
- Experience developing quality assurance plans.
- Experience with data analysis (R – statistical computing environment), GIS, and database management.
- Experience operating and trailering watercraft.