Water Research Specialist

WVU Online

. Plan and conduct field sampling for acid mine drainage characterization, remediation, and long-term water quality monitoring .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeUnited StatesMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in water quality monitoring, data analysis, and field sampling techniques, with a strong ability to engage stakeholders and communicate findings effectively. Proficient in GIS applications and maintaining environmental monitoring equipment while adhering to safety practices.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Water Quality MonitoringGIS ProficiencyField Sampling TechniquesData AnalysisStakeholder Engagement

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Water Quality ResearchField Sampling TechniquesData ManagementQA/QC ProceduresTechnical Report WritingStatistical AnalysisEnvironmental Monitoring Equipment OperationScientific Literature InterpretationProject ManagementGrant Proposal Preparation

Soft Skills

Strong Communication SkillsOrganizational SkillsCollaboration SkillsProblem-Solving SkillsAdaptability

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft OfficeArcGISMultiparameter MetersFlow MetersGPS Units

Certifications & Qualifications

Master's Degree in ChemistryGeologyEnvironmental ScienceNatural Resources-Related Field

Industry Keywords

Acid Mine DrainageWater QualityWatershed RestorationEnvironmental ScienceField Safety Practices

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Plan and conduct field sampling for acid mine drainage characterization, remediation, and long-term water quality monitoring
Manage and analyze water quality data for monitoring and watershed restoration projects
Coordinate and execute outreach activities for state, federal, and privately funded grants
Support workforce development, public/private engagement, and dissemination of project findings
Stay current on regional water issues and assist with grant proposal preparation
Collaborate with state and federal agencies, researchers, nonprofit groups, watershed organizations, community groups, educators, and landowners
Provide task-level guidance, training, and oversight to undergraduate and graduate student workers
Provide technical assistance to watershed organizations and community partners
Prepare and deliver presentations for technical and nontechnical audiences
Operate, calibrate, maintain, install, and retrieve environmental monitoring equipment
Coordinate sampling logistics, supplies, equipment, sample delivery, site access, and field records
Process, organize, and maintain water quality datasets and databases
Conduct QA/QC checks, routine data analysis, summary tables, graphs, and visualizations
Use GIS, including ArcGIS, to develop maps and organize spatial data
Assist with interpreting water quality data, identifying trends, pollution sources, and watershed conditions
Conduct literature searches and assist with technical reports, project summaries, scientific manuscripts, and presentations
Participate in project meetings and communicate progress and findings to project teams
Assist with identifying funding opportunities and preparing grant proposals
Maintain project records and complete travel, reimbursement, and other administrative tasks
Travel to remote locations in West Virginia and surrounding states, with occasional overnight stays
Perform routine evening and weekend work for grassroots organization activities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master's degree in chemistry, geology, environmental science, or a natural resources-related field or equivalent combination of education and applicable experience
0-6 months of experience involving water quality research
0-6 months of experience with volunteer organizations
Valid driver's license
General knowledge of water quality and watershed issues, including acid mine drainage, dissolved solids, and bacterial contamination
Knowledge of basic scientific principles, field sampling techniques, and laboratory procedures related to water quality monitoring
Ability to operate, calibrate, and maintain water quality monitoring equipment, multiparameter meters, flow meters, GPS units, and related field instruments
Ability to conduct fieldwork in variable weather conditions and challenging terrain, including remote sampling locations and four-wheel-drive vehicles
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Ability to learn specialized data management and GIS software
Ability to organize, process, and summarize scientific datasets using established QA/QC procedures
Ability to interpret basic scientific information, perform routine calculations, and develop tables, graphs, and visualizations
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to prepare project summaries, technical correspondence, presentations, and educational outreach materials
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to work independently and recognize when guidance is needed
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
Ability to coordinate outreach activities and engage diverse stakeholders
Ability to read, understand, and apply technical procedures, scientific literature, project requirements, and agency guidelines
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, adaptability, and initiative
Willingness and ability to learn new scientific methods, technologies, and procedures
Understanding of laboratory and field safety practices
All qualifications must be met by the time of employment

Benefits

Comp & perks

37.5-hour work week
13 paid holidays
24 annual leave (vacation) days per year
18 sick days per year
Health insurance and other benefits
401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match
Eligibility to continue health insurance and other retiree perks
Wellness programs
Safety training and equipment provided
Professional development activities, trainings, and conferences