Water Resources Technician – Seasonal

Title: Water Resources Technician – Seasonal
Status: Temporary Full-Time
Term: May to October with flexible start/end dates
Reports To: Natural Resources Manager
Classification: Non-Exempt (FSLA)
Benefits: Earned Safe and Sick Time eligible
Wage: $20.34/hour (depending on qualifications)

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE
Provide technical support and assistance in the protection, improvement, and management of the surface waters within the District. This position will involve assisting the water quality monitoring department with the operation and maintenance of a watershed wide monitoring program for lakes, streams stormwater ponds, and wetlands.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Water Quality Program (90%)

  1. Assist in planning, coordinating and conducting RPBCWD's streams and lakes chemical, biological, hydrological data monitoring following quality control protocols to ensure efficient and effective data collection
  2. Assuring that monitoring data is collected in timely manner and within the guidelines of the RPBCWD’s water quality monitoring program
  3. Assist in the collection of AIS data - fisheries, aquatic vegetation, and zebra mussels
  4. Managing large water quality data sets and assist in providing data interpretation
  5. Assist in preparing an annual water resources report
  6. Provide superior customer service and interaction in a friendly, professional manner

Other Duties as Assigned (10%)
Participates as a member of the staff team for District projects and programs by collaborating with other staff and consultants, performing miscellaneous office duties as needed, and assisting with special projects and other responsibilities as assigned.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • A student who is currently enrolled or has recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in the field of natural resources, water resources, biological studies, environmental science, limnology, hydrology, civil engineering, fisheries, or related field
  • Familiarity with water quality related collection protocols and equipment (e.g., water quality sondes, Flowtracker, automated samplers, electrofishing, etc.)
  • Coursework or experience in water quality monitoring, chemistry, fisheries, or related field
  • Strong organizational, written, and oral communications skills
  • Ability to work well with a team and independently as needed
  • Must be proficient with MS Office Suite
  • Ability to develop and maintain a working knowledge of the District’s operations and policies
  • Maintains a flexible attitude toward job responsibilities and procedural changes
  • Knowledge of ArcGIS
  • Identification of common Minnesota fish, aquatic plants, and AIS

ACTIVITY AND FIELDWORK COMPONENTS

  • This position requires a valid driver’s license and good driving record
  • Must be able to trailer and launch a boat
  • Ability to lift and carry approximately 50-75 pounds over uneven surfaces and slopes
  • Working outdoors under all weather conditions
  • Installation of equipment in the field and in the water
  • Working in waters with waders

APPLICATION
The deadline to apply is March 13, 2026. Qualified candidates may be accepted after deadline if position remains unfilled. Questions should be directed to Zach Dickhausen at zdickhausen@rpbcwd.org or (952) 607-6512 ext. 7.

To apply email a cover letter, resume, and list of references to both of the following:

Zach Dickhausen, Natural Resources Manager: zdickhausen@rpbcwd.org
Liz Forbes, Deputy District Administrator: LForbes@rpbcwd.org

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