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TWDB - 25-46: Coastal Ecologist (Data Analyst III)

Only applicants who apply with a State of Texas application via the CAPPS online application system will be considered for this position. First time applicants will need to create an account https://tinyurl.com/CAPPS-Login in the CAPPS online application system at https://tinyurl.com/CAPPS-Jobs. Please visit our job opportunities page at https://tinyurl.com/How-to-Apply-in-CAPPS for more information about the Texas Water Development Board and answers to frequently asked questions. To view this position in greater detail, visit the CAPPS online application system.

Texas Water Development Board’s Mission

Leading the state’s efforts in ensuring a secure water future for Texas.

The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) endorses telecommuting and hybrid workplace plans, in addition to other flexible work alternatives. We offer competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, and flexible work hours so you can have a work/life balance! For more information about our employee benefits and more, visit http://www.twdb.texas.gov/jobs/benefits.asp.

The Texas Water Development Board does not discriminate on basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, or disability in employment or provision of services, programs, or activities.

***Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications***

General Description

Performs moderately complex (journey-level) ecological data analysis and modeling work for the Coastal Science Department in the Surface Water Division. Work involves developing, maintaining, and applying statistical and ecological models to support freshwater inflow needs and environmental impact analysis, water resources planning, and oil spill response. Investigates, develops, and implements the use of quantitative methods and data for hydro-ecological modeling and analyses. Provides technical support in the planning, execution, and summary of scientific and engineering field studies of state streams, rivers, bays, and estuaries. Attends public meetings and provides technical support to stakeholders and customers. Communicates modeling analyses and study results to general and technical audiences. May train others. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the Manager of the Coastal Science Department.

Essential Job Functions

Conducts statistical data analysis and ecological modeling of state surface water resources, primarily to evaluate freshwater inflow needs and impacts for Texas estuaries.
Investigates, develops, maintains, and applies quantitative ecological methods, data, and models.
Assists with implementation of ecological modules for hydrodynamic models of Texas estuaries.
Conducts systematic and comprehensive literature reviews on related topics such as coastal ecology, modeling, and oil spills.
Initiates scientific studies including the development of detailed scopes of works for contracted studies.
Performs and leads existing or new outreach programs initiated by the Coastal Science Department.
Writes, executes, and maintains relevant R, Python, and ArcGIS programs and scripts.
Writes, reviews, and evaluates technical memos, reports, work process, and policy documents.
Develops, coordinates, and conducts program outreach activities targeting key stakeholders.
Delivers presentations on study results to technical and non-technical audiences.
Works with other departments to post updates of data and publications to the agency website.
Provides data, models, information, and technical support to stakeholder groups, scientific committees, and customers.
Serves as subject matter expert and/or contract manager for research and monitoring contracts.
Participates in field studies, including planning, on-site work, and data acquisition, management, and analysis.
Maintains confidential and sensitive information.
Ensures individual and team files (electronic and hard versions) are appropriately maintained and timely disposed of in accordance with the agency’s records retention procedures and schedule.
Maintains required certifications and licenses and meets the continuing education needs and requirements of the position to include, attending mandatory training courses.
May be required to operate a state or personal vehicle for business purposes, including the transport and operation of boats and equipment.
May perform work outdoors on boats and possibly during inclement weather or under hot and cold temperatures.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Environmental Science/Engineering, or a closely related field.
One year of experience conducting statistical or quantitative modeling and analysis of biological communities, population dynamics, ecosystems, or similar topics.
Relevant education and experience can be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

Graduate degree, or working towards completion of a graduate degree in from an accredited college or university in Biology, Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Environmental Science/Engineering, or a closely related field.
Three years of experience in statistical or quantitative modeling and analysis of biological communities, population dynamics, or ecosystems.
Experience in linking hydrological, hydrodynamics, water quality, or nutrient analyses or models into coastal ecological modeling/analysis systems.
Experience with advanced statistical methods, geospatial analysis techniques, and using ESRI products including ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Pro.
Experience using scripting/programming languages, such as R and Python, using numerical/visualization tools such as Scipy/Numpy, Matplotlib, and creating dashboards using PowerBI or other products.
Experience in project management and stakeholder outreach/engagement.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the Coastal Science Department and Surface Water Division.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
Knowledge of scientific, statistical, modeling, ecological, and hydrological principles, techniques, and procedures.
Skills in using Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and Access.
Skills in use of internet, email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software.
Skills in developing, applying, or running ecological or other computational/numerical models.
Skills in project management and grant/contract administration, including time-management and prioritization.
Skills in effective written and oral communications.
Skills in conducting systematic and comprehensive literature reviews.
Skills in scientific data collection, management, interpretation, visualization and dissemination, particularly of ecological and hydrologic data.
Skills in using numerical/visualization tools (e.g., Scipy/Numpy, Matplotlib, PowerBI, etc).
Skills in programming/scripting languages, such as R and Python, or equivalent, for developing and modifying software and scripts for conducting analyses and to maintain automated processes.
Skills in statistical, modeling, and spatial data analysis techniques (e.g., ArcGIS, etc.).
Ability to adhere to work schedules, follow procedures with respect to leave and submit accurate timesheets by prescribed deadlines.
Ability to make mature, objective decisions and identify areas of potential problems.
Ability to perform effectively and willingly when changes occur in scope and nature of the work and work environment.
Ability to perform routine and non-routine work assignments accurately and on-time with little or no supervision.
Ability to perform assigned duties and improve work habits and/or output.
Ability to complete assigned work, on time, neatly and with infrequent errors.
Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations.
Ability to provide prompt, courteous and accurate assistance and clear and concise communication to internal and external stakeholders both verbally and in writing.
Ability to work with others in a team environment and cooperate with supervisors, co-workers, and others.
Ability to manage multiple tasks.
Ability to stand/sit/move to perform activities such as retrieve/replace files in a large file system for boxes up to 30 lbs.
Ability and willingness to travel 10% of the time, primarily within the State of Texas.
Ability to operate a vehicle (state or personal) for state business and maintain a driver’s license and driving record that complies with state and agency requirements.
Ability to work shifts that may exceed 8 hours, including early mornings, nights, and weekends.
Ability to train others.