Aquatic Biologist

THE POSITION

If you have a strong passion for the environment and want to begin your journey as an Aquatic Biologist 1, this may be the opportunity you have been searching for! The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is excited to welcome a dedicated professional who is ready to dive into this rewarding field and gain valuable experience. Join us in making a difference and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in environmental protection.

Your enthusiasm and commitment could be just what we need to enhance our programs and initiatives!

In this position, you will be responsible for executing statewide initiatives related to waterway and floodplain management as required by the Clean Streams Law and the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. Your duties will include identifying and mapping wetlands, which involves recognizing hydrophytic plant species, hydric soils, and indicators of hydrology. You will also perform inspections of water obstructions and encroachments that are authorized under Chapters 105 and 106, as well as those currently under construction, ensuring compliance with permit stipulations and regulatory standards.

Additionally, you will prepare comprehensive and timely written reports detailing the current conditions, status, and progress of the permitted activities.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday — Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework:
  You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. To telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Meadville. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.
  
  Further details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary:
  Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $51,971 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• A bachelor's degree with a major in a biological science, natural science, environmental science, or natural resource management, including or supplemented by six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

• This position requires possession of an active motor vehicle license.

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Commonwealth employees who wish to use their seniority rights must apply to the internal posting for their seniority rights to be considered.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial…