Water Quality Specialist

The Grand Portage Band is seeking a Water Quality Specialist to lead monitoring, data management, and regulatory review protecting Lake Superior shoreline, inland lakes, streams, and wetlands on the Reservation.  The position blends hands-on field sampling with Clean Water Act program work and supports the Band's authority to regulate its own waters.  

What you’ll do:

• Plan and run seasonal water quality monitoring under the program QAPP: sondes, Secchi disks, grab samples, and beach E. coli sampling


• Reach remote sites by hiking and canoe


• Manage and analyze data, upload to EPA’s WQX, and track trends including climate-related changes


• Review NPDES, Section 404, mining, and NEPA documents affecting Reservation and 1854 Ceded Territory waters and draft technical comments


• Assist with CWA Section 401 certifications and Section 106/319 grant workplans and reporting


• Coordinate with EPA Region 5, the 1854 Treaty Authority, and state agencies; mentor technicians and lead community outreach

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s in water resources, hydrology, environmental science, chemistry, or related field (or equivalent education and experience)


• 2+ years of water quality, hydrology, or related experience, including field monitoring with sondes and sample handling


• Working knowledge of water chemistry, the Clean Water Act, permit review, and NEPA


• Strong data accuracy and Excel skills


• Valid driver’s license, insurable driving record, and ability to pass a background check


• Comfort on open water, wading in cold streams, and carrying up to 40 lbs over rough terrain

Preferred: Understanding of tribal sovereignty and treaty rights; R, Python, or GIS skills; NPDES, 401, QAPP, or WQX experience; experience with tribal environmental programs; canoe or wilderness skills.

Apply here:  https://www.grandportage.com/index.php/footer-pages/employment/job-openings

https://www.grandportage.com/index.php/footer-pages/employment/job-openings