Water Resources Specialist

Cobbossee Watershed District (CWD), Maine’s only regional lake management district nationally recognized for successful lake and watershed management, seeks a Water Resources Specialist to join the CWD staff.

About the Cobbossee Watershed District

In response to declining water quality of several of the lakes and ponds of the Cobbosseecontee Stream watershed the CWD was authorized by the Maine Legislature in 1971 and ratified by its member towns in referendum elections in 1972.  The Cobbossee Watershed District (CWD) is a special purpose governmental unit’ similar to a water, sanitary, or school administrative district.  The purpose of the CWD is to protect, improve, and conserve the water quality of the 28 lakes and ponds of the 217-square mile watershed.  To accomplish this goal, CWD’s main functions include, but not limited to, monitoring lake water quality, developing watershed management plans, conducting projects to improve lake water quality and mitigate non-point sources (NPS), providing technical assistance to municipalities and citizens, and managing lake water levels.

Examples of duties

• Collects lake water quality data and maintains all equipment necessary for this task.
• Collects hydrologic data from USGS reference points and gaging stations.
• Data management (e.g., water quality and hydrologic data).
• Analyzes water quality data in cooperation with Maine DEP and CWD project personnel.
• Perform field work and assist CWD personnel with various other tasks related to watershed surveys, non-point source pollution reduction, lake water levels management, and invasive aquatic species control projects as needed.
• Provide technical assistance on land use matters.
• Coordinates with volunteer water quality monitors with the Lake Stewards of Maine.

Requirements

Qualified candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related, and have knowledge of lake and watershed ecology, non-point source pollution management, and computer data management.  Experience (1 to 2 yrs.) is preferred.  In lieu of experience a Master’s degree in one of the above noted disciplines may suffice.  Candidates must be able to swim, lift forty pounds, pilot and trailer small watercraft, and work independently and in occasional adverse field conditions.   A valid U.S. driver’s license is required.