Water Quality Specialist

About the 30 Mile River Watershed Association:

The 30 Mile River Watershed Association is a well-established and growing organization in Central Maine with the mission to work as a community for clean and healthy lakes, ponds, and streams in our watershed. This includes 25+ lakes and ponds, and many streams in 89 square miles spanning from New Sharon to Monmouth.  A critical part of our mission is protecting water quality. 

The Water Quality Specialist will be responsible for implementing 30 Mile’s water quality monitoring program. They will also support the Watershed Manager in projects to reduce erosion that negatively impacts water quality. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who cares deeply about our beautiful Maine lakes, and wants to develop new skills while working with a knowledgeable, enthusiastic team who want to make a difference.

Responsibilities:

• Perform collection, entry, and reporting of water quality data for lakes and ponds in the watershed. (Training in monitoring protocols will be provided.)
• Train and coordinate volunteers who support our water quality monitoring.
• Coordinate with Maine DEP and consultants to collect additional data needed to address algal blooms.
• Assist Watershed Manager with preparation, data review/reporting, and follow-up for watershed and road surveys.
• Provide support for LakeSmart volunteer teams, perform site visits, and recruit volunteers for new lake teams.
• Provide technical assistance for property owners regarding lake-friendly practices through site visits and special projects, such as live stake plantings and native buffer plant sales.
• Contribute to 30 Mile’s outreach efforts, such as presenting at annual lake association and other community meetings, and creating content for our monthly newsletter.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, or related field
• Comfort working in and around boats and the water
• Commitment to and passion for our mission
• Eagerness to learn and grow professionally
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and desire to make a difference
• Strong time-management and organizational skills, with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite, Google Workspace, and mapping software (eg ArcGIS)

Work Environment and Compensation: The Water Quality Specialist reports to the Watershed Manager. This is a full-time, salaried position based in 30 Mile’s newly renovated building in picturesque Mount Vernon Village, overlooking Minnehonk Lake. Salary commensurate with experience, ranging from $45,000-50,000. Benefits include matching retirement, health care reimbursement, and generous paid time off.