Water Quality Scientist - Tmdl Planner

Are you interested in developing water quality improvement plans for Montana's streams, lakes, and rivers? Are you interested in a mix of field work, data analysis, and technical document writing? We are looking for a Water Quality Scientist to join our team in the TMDL Section of the Water Quality Planning Bureau. This position is focused on the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and supporting TMDL implementation and other water quality and watershed improvement activities. Writing and implementing TMDLs supports DEQ's mission to assure that water quality is maintained and improved so that state waters can support all their beneficial uses.

Primary responsibilities of this position include: Developing TMDLs to address pollutant loading sources; Organizing, analyzing, summarizing, and visually presenting water quality data and pollutant source information; Working with other internal DEQ program personnel and external stakeholders to compile water quality information and provide guidance and feedback on water quality and wetland improvement activities; Writing TMDL documents that meet all DEQ and EPA requirements; Presenting TMDLs, associated data, and scientific information to the public and stakeholders; and Documenting water quality improvement and wetland protection actions and evaluating relative success of these actions. Some field work to collect surface water quality data and assess pollutant sources, as well as travel around the state of Montana, is required.

At the Department of Environmental Quality, our ultimate goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana. DEQ employees are the heart of our organization. We value the people and invest in their professional growth, promoting a culture of cross-agency collaboration as we find solutions to the environmental challenges we face. DEQ values - leadership, accountability, customer service, efficiency, excellence, and decision making - are fundamental to our work. Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality!

The Water Quality Scientist position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression.

Effective February 23, 2026, this agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/.

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, Environmental Engineering, Aquatic Biology, Geology, Limnology, Hydrology, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
• Three years of work experience in aquatic science, hydrology, water quality planning, water or environmental resource management, nonpoint source pollution prevention, or a closely related field.
• Preferred working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems, R programming, and statistical analysis.
• Technical writing and public speaking skills preferred.
• Current valid Driver's License and clean driving record in accordance with State of Montana Vehicle laws.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Both a cover letter and resume are required. In your cover letter, describe how your education, knowledge, and skills have prepared you for this position, including your knowledge of surface water quality and nonpoint sources.

Applications, including required supplemental materials such as cover letter and resume, must be submitted through the State of Montana Careers site (https://statecareers.mt.gov/) by the closing date of the announcement.