Salary: $36.81 - $42.33 HourlyLocation : Milwaukee, WIJob Type: Full TimeJob Number: 2025-00003Department: Industrial Waste, Freshwater Resources & Conveyance System MonitoringOpening Date: 01/03/2025Closing Date: 1/26/2025 11:59 PM CentralDescription The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) is a regional governmental agency that serves 1.1 million people in the greater Milwaukee area. MMSD provides water reclamation, flood management, and green infrastructure services for our community. Our mission is to protect public health and the environment through world-class, cost-effective water resource management, leadership, and partnership. Join our diverse team and support your community while protecting our environment.MMSD is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Freshwater Resources Specialist in the Water Quality Protection Division. Reporting to the Freshwater Resources Supervisor, you are responsible for method development, instrument troubleshooting, interpretation of water resources data, and various reporting to satisfy MMSD's permit requirements. You also implement sampling strategies in response to MMSD programs and client needs and provide technical assistance in accordance with MMSD policies and procedures. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Participate in field work for the long term surface water monitoring program and related water quality projects. Conduct additional work for permit-related tasks, such as combined sewer outfall sign inspections and whole effluent toxicity (WET) testing.
- Review analysis data for accuracy, completeness, and quality control compliance. Organize and report on water quality research data and prepare reports and summaries as required.
- Provide technical assistance and train personnel in assigned area.
- Set up instrumentation, monitor performance, and maintain functionality. Perform instrument troubleshooting and minor repairs as necessary.
- Implement methodology, monitor performance, and maintain quality control compliance.
- Interface with peers, environmental groups, and instrument manufacturers to keep current on technological advances, new products, and method development.
- Maintain inventory of necessary supplies and maintain departmental housekeeping standards.
- Ensure the completion of all required records, paperwork, and documents.
- Operate research vessels and monitoring vans. Comply with all safety rules and regulations.
- Complete special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in aquatic biology, water resources, water chemistry, ecology, environmental science, or a related degree.
- Four years of job-related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Ability to present findings of research projects.
- Ability to prepare accurate written records and reports.
- Knowledge of and the ability to apply principles of water resources and aquatic biology.
- Knowledge of and the ability to work with statistics in the analysis of data.
- Ability to manipulate spreadsheet, database, and word processing applications.
- Knowledge of and the ability to apply procedures and methods of water sampling and aquatic biology analysis to ensure accurate sample collection.
- Ability to operate standard laboratory equipment.
- Computer software proficiency.
- First Aid and CPR certification (provided by MMSD).
- WDNR boating safety certificate (within six months of hire).
- Valid driver's license and a good driving record at time of application and throughout employment.
Supplemental Information Physical Requirements:
- This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 50 lbs. of force.
- Work regularly requires using hands; frequently requires standing, sitting, speaking, hearing, and repetitive motions; occasionally requires walking, climbing, balancing, kneeling, crawling, reaching with hands and arms, smelling, pushing, and pulling.
Sensory Requirements:
- Work has standard vision requirements. Vocal communication is required for conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately, loudly, or quickly. Hearing is required to receive detailed information through oral communication and/or to make fine distinctions in sound.
- Work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, operating motor vehicles or equipment, and observing general surroundings and activities.
Environmental Exposures:
- Work frequently requires exposure to outdoor weather conditions and exposure to vibration; occasionally requires exposure to wet/humid conditions (non-weather), working near moving mechanical parts, working in high/precarious places, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, exposure to the risk of electrical shock, and exposure to bloodborne pathogens (may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment).
- Work is generally in a loud noise location.
Requires the use of safety glasses and shoes, hardhat, hearing protection, coveralls, rain gear, waterproof gloves, life jacket, winter survival jacket, life raft, and fall protection as dictated by the location and type of work being performed. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. MMSD is an equal opportunity employer who values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Women, people of color, immigrants, LGBTQ+, veterans, and individuals living with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We are committed to being equitable and fair in providing access to opportunities for all! MMSD is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness ProgramSUMMARY OF MMSD EMPLOYEE BENEFITSMMSD provides a competitive benefits package for employees based on Commission Policy that include the following:
- Annual vacation: Earn three to five weeks of vacation based on years of service
- Personal Days: Earn four personal days annually.
- Sick Leave: Earn 10 days annually.
- Holidays: 10 days annually.
- Insurance Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance benefits as well as an employee assistance program and flexible spending accounts. Some employee contributions may be required to participate in these benefits.
- Retirement Benefit: Participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System (among the best funded and best managed public pension systems in the country), which requires an employee contribution.
- Voluntary Retirement Benefit: Choice of three 457(b) deferred compensation plans, which requires an employee contribution.
- Paid Parental Leave: Employees meeting the eligibility requirements under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) will receive a maximum of six weeks (240 hours) of paid parental leave for the birth, adoption, or placement of a child or children.
- Educational Reimbursement Program: Employees are eligible for tuition reimbursement for up to $5,000 based on degree level being pursued.
- Wages: Employees are paid biweekly.
- Parking: Free parking in MMSD's lot.
01 Do you have a valid driver's license?
02 Please briefly describe your degree and coursework in relation to the qualifications of the Freshwater Resources Specialist. Required Question