Water Resources Scientist - Aquatic Ecologist - Mid-level

Title: Water Resources Scientist/Aquatic Ecologist – Mid-level (Hybrid)

remote type

Hybrid

locations

Denver, CO

time type

Full time

job requisition id

R-101744

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a water resources scientist to join our Denver, Colorado, team. In this hybrid role, you will support the Water Resources group to expand Barr’s western water quality work on projects involving hydrologic/water quality modeling, stormwater management, watershed planning, reservoir/lake management and field monitoring, natural resources management, and GIS work.

 

A successful person in this role will collaborate with diverse teams of engineers and scientists across various geographies. They must possess strong interpersonal skills to effectively manage competing demands for client and internal responsibilities. Flexibility is essential, as they will occasionally need to adapt their schedule to meet project team needs, deadlines, and client needs.

 

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: Hydrologic and water quality analysis of stormwater, stream, pond, wetland, lake, and reservoir management in urban and/or rural settings; water monitoring techniques; aquatic ecology and aquatic plant management; and statistical analysis of water quality data.

• Reporting: Preparation of TMDLs, WRAPs, and other technical reports.

• Project management: Assist in the planning, coordinating, and executing of projects. Help ensure project milestones are met and provide regular updates to project managers and clients.

• Presentation: Present at public forums, client meetings, and conferences.

• Client Relationships: Develop and maintain client relationships and work with permitting agencies and public officials.

 

About the opportunity

• Compensation: Anticipated range of $90,000–$105,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

• Hybrid: A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Denver, Colorado, office.

• Travel expectation: Work may involve short-term, out-of-town assignments either in the field, client visits, or in another Barr office.

• Work environment: Ability to work in an office environment. Approximately 5 percent of work will be in the field. Fieldwork may require the ability to work near water, operate boats, and lift up to 50 pounds. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

 

About you – required core competencies

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in aquatic ecology, limnology, biology, water resources science, environmental science, or related field

• Experience:

  • Five years of relevant professional experience in lake and stream management, water quality, fisheries, and/or aquatic ecology

  • Applied experience with topics that include lake management (aquatic plants, algae, nutrient cycling, and other aspects of lake ecology); aquatic invasive species management, fisheries management and hydrology; water quality analysis; water quality modeling; and/or regulatory requirements

  • Experience with developing proposals, task and/or project management, and/or client engagement

• Communication: Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with project team members, regulators, and clients

• Software: Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams), ArcGIS Pro, and water quality modeling software (e.g., P8, WASP, BATHTUB, QUAL, HSPF, etc.)

• Travel: Ability and willingness to travel to client locations and other Barr offices on occasion

• Driver’s license: Possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

 

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• Familiarity with programming languages that are commonly used for statistical analysis (e.g., R, Python)

• Familiarity with ArcGIS Pro or other Esri products

• Experience with business development

 

#LI-Hybrid

 

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

 

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

 

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

 

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

 

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our sucess.

 

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

 

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.