Environmental Specialist

Position Purpose

The Environmental Specialist I is responsible for assisting the Lead Mussel Biologist with the administration and maintenance of the freshwater mussel program for the Peoria Tribe.

In addition, she/he will assist with restoration projects, which could include a freshwater mussel component.

The Environmental Specialist is also responsible for developing and administering any Environmental Program for the Peoria Tribe as assigned.

In addition, she/he will be responsible for fulfilling the requirements of Tribal grants relating to what is assigned.

This position reports directly to the Lead Mussel Biologist, the Hatchery Manager, and the Director of Natural Resources.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Both field and lab studies of freshwater mussels and fish. Works with all stages of propagation of freshwater mussels and fish. Take care of, maintain, and grow mussels and fish in the program. Work with Tribal, USFWS, BIA, State, and other entities for projects.

Organize work in a timely manner to meet all deadlines and schedules. Assist with visual and tactile searches for mussels. (wading and snorkeling) Maintaining field and lab equipment. Aquarium system maintenance, water quality, and pond maintenance for best conditions for mussels and fish.

Work on restoration projects involving freshwater mussels and any other restoration projects. In charge of funding-related tasks. If the fund pays for salary, the position is in charge of the work, the deliverables, and the reporting.

Conduct meetings/discussions with Tribal/community members to identify, prioritize, and document community concerns. Represent the Tribe on the Tar Creek Trustee Council (TCTC), TCTC Indian Tribes, and other environment/wildlife-related working groups. Attend, participate, and listen to TCTC, TCTCIT, and other related restoration calls and meetings.

Take water, sediment, soil, and tissue samples. Must be self-disciplined to stay on task to complete all grant deliverables and sampling in a timely manner.

Maintain and enter sample data into appropriate databases.

Create reports as needed/required by Tribe and grantors.

Travel both in and out of state for necessary training. Maintain appropriate files and records. Comply with all grant reporting requirements. The position is grant funded; must be willing to write for new funding opportunities to further position.

Assist with Aquatic Facility Maintenance and work.

Any tasks required for grant funding or project/program deliverables. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Possess a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. A Bachelors Degree is preferred, with a focus on Biology, Environmental Sciences, or other environmental-related coursework. Water quality work experience. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency with computers and programs such as Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, Excel, and the Internet. Organization and record-keeping skills are necessary for accurate maintenance of files, correspondence, records, and follow-up. Must be able to conduct meetings/discussions with Tribal and community members. Must have reliable transportation with current liability insurance, valid driver’s license, and good driving record. Organization and record-keeping skills are necessary for accurate maintenance of files, correspondence, records, and follow-up. Must be willing and able to learn. As well as self-motivated. Must be able to drive trucks, boats, as well as haul trailers. Must be willing and able to work in inclement weather conditions. Must be willing and able to work in a multitude of river/creek/water environments for research purposes.

Able to run mowers and other equipment. Able to haul and operate a boat in a safe manner. Certifications: Valid Driver’s License and Insurance. Conditions of Employment: The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma operates a drug-free workplace. May be required to submit to and pass applicable drug test and background check. Adhere to all work rules, policies & procedures, and safety standards. Work Requirements: Position involves prolonged sitting, standing, stooping, or bending, lifting, or carrying up to 50 pounds on a daily basis. Work is generally performed in an office environment and outside with varying levels of lighting, air quality, noise, and/or temperature. Will also need to be able and comfortable to work in rivers and ponds on boat and or snorkeling.