Resource Scientist

Job Description

Join PSE as a steward of aquatic species in the Baker River System! The successful candidate for this position will have strong field skills, and they will also have solid experience in managing and facilitating group decision-making processes, and presenting information to a variety of audiences and professional collaborators.

This position provides technical oversight and support for fish and aquatic resources license, mitigation and permitting programs related to PSE’s generation facilities, primarily focused on the Baker River Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2150). The successful applicant will manage license implementation activities in accordance with regulatory compliance obligations. The Baker River Project license was issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in October 2008, and includes 50 articles of the collaborative Settlement Agreement of November 2004, of which 15 are specific or related to aquatic resource measures. License implementation responsibilities include oversight of upstream and downstream fish passage programs, supporting fish propagation measures and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife  manager at the Baker fish hatchery, assisting with other fisheries and aquatics plan implementation, and leading quarterly license implementation meetings with tribal, federal, state and NGO stakeholders, and various other tasks as needs arise.

The position manages inter-disciplinary teams to advance complex projects. Works closely with PSE and external personnel to support customer objectives. Conducts environmental analyses in support of new resource acquisition to meet company clean energy goals. Provides technical input and support to corporate teams on regional environmental issues. Supports construction, operation and maintenance activities related to company generation by contributing to or managing design development, ESA consultation, permitting and engagement of stakeholders at all stages. Manages external stakeholders and regulatory intervenors to build long-term trust and partnerships. The position requires the ability to work in the field in a variety of natural (e.g., hiking, snorkeling, stream walking), commercial and industrial environments, in remote locations under adverse weather conditions, sometimes being on call after regular business hours.

Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety.

Demonstrates commitment to conduct business honestly, ethically and consistent with our core values and Code of Conduct.  Ensures duties are performed in accordance with all regulatory compliance obligations.

Job Responsibilities

• Serves as the task lead for field investigations and programmatic monitoring activities.
• Develops compliance reports, standard operating procedures and documentation of resource management activities and monitoring procedures.
• Conducts simple agency coordination and consultation as a representative of PSE. 
• Conducts environmental field work which may include biological monitoring, streamflow monitoring, physical data collection and/or cultural management activities related to PSE’s operation facilities.
• Establishes and maintains relational database of input variables and develops data warehousing strategies for operational purposes.
• Development of permitting and/or other regulatory approvals and conducts other administrative duties, in support of company programs and operations.
• Performs and coordinates a variety of complex analyses and design tasks in the plant and office settings.
• Assists in budget preparation. 
• Assists in supervision of Consultants assigned to projects.  
• Provides clear reporting and documentation of assigned activities.
• Provides support for other departmental administrative activities, initiatives and projects.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS/BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Hydrology, Engineering, Anthropology, Mathematics or similar with 5 years of experience in the field (appropriate additional may be considered in lieu of degree).
• Experience and proficiency with MS Office, including Excel and Access.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree.
• Experience or familiarity with electric or gas industry.

Additional Information