WATER AND FISH BIOLOGIST I (ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST)

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VACANCY ANN#:     STOI-25-097

TITLE:                          WATER & FISH BIOLOGIST 1 (ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST)

DEPARTMENT:        DNR

SUPERVISOR:          WATER & FISH PROGRAM MANAGER

LOCATION:                WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                      REGULAR FULL-TIME

RATE OF PAY:          $26.73 – $28.81 PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:      OCTOBER 29, 2025

CLOSING DATE:      DECEMBER 1, 2025

 

 

INTRODUCTION:

We are seeking an Environmental Scientist to develop a Toxic Reduction Strategy and implement toxics reduction projects. This is a three-year project that will address the reduction of toxics into the Spokane Reservation Basin by identifying, managing, and implementing toxics cleanup and mitigation activities. Additionally, the project will lead the planning and implementation of projects that address known toxics issues on the Reservation. The Environmental Scientist is responsible for coordinating with subcontractors, tribal programs, project managers, and field staff to develop and implement toxics reduction strategies, participate in various toxics groups including Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT).

 

Our ideal candidate will be forward thinking, self-driven with the ability to self-manage and take direction, demonstrates a high level of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, is motivated, enthusiastic, detail-oriented, has a positive work ethic and attitude, and is adaptable to both office and field work environments. This position requires experience or working knowledge of environmental toxicology, hazardous materials investigations, or risk assessments. We seek a candidate with strong technical and analytical skills including data management, data analyses, and report writing. This position is a supporting role to toxics-related projects under the Spokane Tribe’s Department of Natural Resources and will report to the Water and Fish Program Manager.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Working with tribal programs and staff to develop a comprehensive Toxics Reduction Strategy for identifying, characterizing, prioritizing, and addressing toxics issues pertinent to the Spokane Tribe’s Reservation.
  • Engage with Spokane Tribal members through public outreach events and or multimedia to identify community environmental concerns and priorities for addressing toxics related issues.
  • Implement tackle exchange to reduce the use of lead in fishing gear.
  • Assist in compilation of mine inventory in the region that could be Tribe.
  • Assist Non-Point Project Manager in identifying, planning, and implementing non-point source buffer reduction project.
  • Participate in various toxics reduction workgroups such as the Spokane River Toxics Advisory Committee (SRTAC) and the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) Toxics Reduction Workgroup.
  • Assist in development of toxics reduction strategies in coordination with project managers, contractors, UCUT and SRTAC.
  • Accessing and reviewing environmental files associated with CERCLA, MTCA sites and NPSDES permits and stormwater sampling.
  • Apply technical expertise in reviewing and drafting sampling and analysis plans, quality assurance project plans, health and safety plans and project reporting.
  • Coordinate with contractors and project staff to conduct field investigations, pilot studies, and remediation efforts.
  • Conduct site visits and standard field sampling procedures for various environmental media as appropriate for each project.
  • Assist in developing grants for implementing toxic reduction projects.
  • Assist with field preparation and sampling as needed.
  • Other duties may be assigned on as needed basis.

 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED FOR POSITION:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Ability to manage and analyze large environmental datasets.
  • Proficiency in spatial and statistical software programs such as ARCGIS and/or R is preferred.
  • Familiarity with EPA water quality standards and a basic understanding of the Clean Water Act (CWA).
  • Familiarity with CERCLA, TSCA, RCRA, MTCA, UMTRA or other similar environmental cleanup programs is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate and work effectively in an interdisciplinary team environment and as an independent contributor.
  • Well organized with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Excellent problem-solving, planning, technical writing, and critical thinking skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication and ability to organize, interpret, and graphically present data to technical audiences and decision makers.
  • Strong work ethic, positive attitude and demonstrated ability to prioritize a variety of assignments to meet deadlines.
  • This position requires the use of heavy equipment (vehicles) and is subject to the Spokane Tribe’s rug and alcohol testing policy.
  • Adhere to relevant Health and Safety plans.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must have a valid WA State driver’s license and a good driving record.
  • Must be willing to travel on occasion.
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Chemistry Environmental Toxicology, or other field related to toxicology.
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience working in an environmental toxicology, hazardous materials, risk assessment, or remediation/restoration environment. A combination of education and work experience may fulfill this requirement.
  • Must include a professional or academic writing sample.
  • Must have 3 professional references.
  • Must include resume and cover letter.

 

 

*Tribal Preference Applies – Tribal Preference grants preference in employment to qualified enrolled Spokane Tribal Citizens, Spouses of Spokane Tribal Citizens, First Line Descendants of Spokane Tribal Citizens, and Citizens of other Tribes and Other Applicants, in that order. 

 

MUST APPLY ONLINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/476?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line application submission and interview status will be sent to all applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mail for interview notifications.

 

 

Contact: Sabrina McCoy or Kammi Rosenbaum

(509) 458-6583 or (509) 458-6527  

 E-mail:   hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications Must Be Received In The Human Resources Department No

 Later Than 4:30 p.m. on the Closing Date

The Spokane Tribe Reserves The Right To Hire According To Its Indian Preference Policy

Applicants May be Subject To A Pre-Employment Drug Test Positions

All Positions With The Spokane Tribe Are Subject To A-90 Day Orientation