Environmental Scientist – CW 2024-01

The SFEI-NMS team is recruiting for two positions. A major focus of both positions will be the analysis and interpretation of large, rich datasets (e.g., multi-year high-frequency mooring datasets; multi-decade monitoring program data) to gain mechanistic insights into ecosystem dynamics and/or to evaluate the effects of restoration actions and nutrient reductions on water quality. In addition, one or both of the positions (depending on areas of expertise and experience), will play a major role in developing an exciting new initiative to coordinate water quality monitoring throughout San Francisco Bay. This will include the analysis of high-frequency data to optimize additional monitoring efforts, using complex multi-year datasets to assess the effects of recent management actions, and convening workshops with other scientists and managers in the region. This will require the staff member to be present for meetings with stakeholders and collaborators.

Primary position responsibilities will include:

• Design observational and synthesis studies to inform scientific and management questions and provide data needed for models, statistical analyses, and predictive tools.
• Analyze datasets using statistical software and open source code (e.g., Python, R suite, Git).
• Synthesize data from multiple lines of evidence, including both observational and modeling studies, to address key nutrient management issues and develop recommendations for mitigating impacts.
• Manage expansion of the NMS monitoring program including analyzing existing data to identify high priority sampling locations and parameters. May also require field work from boats to identify prospective locations for new sensors or stations.
• Coordinate with stakeholders and collaborators on development of the long-term monitoring program.
• Manage projects involving internal staff and external partners and ensuring projects meet deliverable timelines.
• Write technical reports, journal articles, memoranda, and proposals.
• Develop presentations and/or posters for stakeholder meetings, public meetings and scientific conferences.

If you are excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or one of our other roles.

Qualifications

Required Experience

• Master’s degree plus at least 7 years of experience or PhD. Relevant fields include environmental science, environmental engineering, oceanography, or another related scientific field. 

Required Skills

• Strong quantitative background and data analysis skills using programming or statistical software (e.g., Python, R, Matlab).
• Experience applying those skills to interpret large datasets (high-frequency and/or multi-decade monitoring data) related to water quality.
• Understanding of biogeochemistry, hydrodynamics/physical oceanography, environmental chemistry, biogeochemistry, and/or environmental science.
• Strong communication, presentation and writing skills and ability to synthesize information.
• Experience with technical project management, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple projects at once and meet deadlines.
• Preferred Skills
• Post-PhD experience is desirable but not required.
• Experience analyzing data collected using oceanographic instrumentation (e.g. CTD, ADCP, etc.).
• Proficiency in statistical methods and data visualization, especially with respect to analyzing large datasets of high frequency time series data.
• Experience with data management, quality assurance, and post-processing.
• Strong meeting facilitation skills and/or experience presenting to/engaging with stakeholder groups.
• Ability to work well in teams as well as work independently.
• Ability to work on boats and lift and carry heavy/awkward equipment short distances.