KCI’s Natural Resources stream assessment group is recognized local experts in the assessment of stream ecological resources. Our group collects high-quality data on stream ecological condition, water quality, and stream geomorphology. We analyze and interpret these data with the help of GIS and statistical techniques to help our clients understand the complex relationships between stream ecology and the various water quality, physical habitat, and land use stressors.
The selected applicant will work as a team member with potential to grow into a team leader in our stream assessment group. This position will also support a variety of projects and assignments, including those organized in the following major subject areas:
Stream Assessment
- Lead biological stream monitoring using Maryland Biological Stream Survey protocols for benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, and habitat.
- Conduct baseflow and stormflow water quality sampling.
- Lead installation and maintenance of stream monitoring equipment.
- Complete riparian vegetation assessments.
Ecological Restoration
- Assist with ecological restoration projects, including stream and riparian buffer restoration, and wetland creation/restoration.
- Conduct fluvial geomorphic surveys and assessments.
- Assist with pre and post restoration monitoring.
Watershed Planning
- Prepare watershed management plans to satisfy NPDES MS4 permit conditions and TMDL requirements.
- Support watershed scale pollutant load modeling.
- Prepare concise and well written plans.
- Support public outreach project elements.
Natural Resources Permitting
- Perform wetland and forest stand delineations.
- Complete RTE and habitat surveys.
- Support permitting and regulatory coordination efforts as necessary, through field and office work.
General
- Perform field work in a variety of weather conditions. Field work conducted in the summer can be strenuous and physically demanding.
- Adhere to rigorous Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) processes to produce data of the highest quality.
- Assist with the development of QA/QC plans and Standard Operating Procedures covering all aspects of natural resource monitoring and assessment activities.
- Input data, calculate multi-metric indices, write technical reports, develop maps and graphics using ArcGIS Pro and other mapping tools.
- Use analytical skills necessary to solve complex problems both in a team setting and individually.
- Functioning efficiently with minimal guidance will be expected. Independent work, organizational ability, regular communication and time management skills are required for this position.
- Learn new field and office skills quickly.
The ideal candidate will have:
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or Wildlife and Fisheries Management, or in a related field or equivalent is required. Master of Science in relevant field a plus, but not required.
- Experience with fieldwork related to streams, wetlands, biological stream monitoring (benthic macroinvertebrates, fish), habitat assessment, and vegetation.
- Experience with and certification in Maryland Biological Stream Survey protocols, including identification of freshwater fishes, a plus.
- Familiarity with NPDES MS4 permit compliance, watershed planning, TMDLs, pollutant load modeling.
- Experience with geomorphic assessment, natural resources mitigation, and restoration in the Mid-Atlantic is a plus.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills of technical data.
- A rigorous work ethic and strong research and analysis skills are a requirement of this position.
- ArcGIS, ArcPro, or R statistical software experience is a plus.
- Ability to work in a team environment and with individuals in other geographies and KCI offices. Overnight or out of state travel may be required on occasion.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, Natural Resources, or related field.
- Minimum of 4- 8 years of experience.
- Pre-employment drug screening is a condition of employment. Background and motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.
