Environmental Manager - Algal Taxonomist

This Environmental Manager exists within the Targeted Monitoring Section, Watershed Assessment and Planning Branch, Office of Water Quality, Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). This Environmental Manager, a specialist in the algae program, oversees and participates in all activities associated with the collection, processing and data analysis of cyanobacteria and diatom samples from Indiana lakes, rivers and streams. These duties include serving as a crew leader responsible for coordinating and conducting chemical, physical and biological data, analysis and interpretation of data, participation in committees, workshops and training, and equipment maintenance. This role requires communication of data and information to a wide variety of internal and external customers using verbal, electronic and writing techniques. 

This Environmental Manager serves a key function as an algae expert for IDEM staff and the public when harmful algal blooms (HABs) are reported or unknown blooms need to be identified. Microscope identification, understanding algae taxa characteristics, and testing the toxins algae produce are crucial to supporting IDEM programs, and is central to IDEM’s interagency partnership with the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in issuing public health advisories. 

Work is performed in the office, in the laboratory, and in the field. During the field season, the work may involve physical exertion for moving and carrying light to heavy equipment and sampling gear. This position may have to work in inclement weather conditions, and occasionally be exposed to fumes, acids, or other unknown toxins in water. This job requires overnight travel 25% of the year and field work 50% of the year. Schedule adjusting is also required during field work activities up to 12 hours a day; however, not more than 75 hours per biweekly period. A valid Indiana Driver's License is required.