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Lead Hydrographic Scientist (PSRS III)

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Lead Hydrographic Scientist (PSRS III)

Salary

$88,104.00 - $130,140.00 Annually

Location

Garfield County, CO

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

PEA 00270 1/2026

Department

Department of Natural Resources

Division

Division of Water Resources

Opening Date

01/20/2026

Closing Date

2/9/2026 11:59 PM Mountain

FLSA

Determined by Position

Type of Announcement

This position is open only to Colorado state residents.

Primary Physical Work Address

202 Center Dr, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

Hiring Pay Rate

Employees new to State Government will be paid on a bi-weekly basis.

FLSA Status

Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Department Contact Information

[email protected]

Salary Note

Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum.

How To Apply

Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Department Information

OPEN ONLY TO CURRENT RESIDENTS OF COLORADO

Are you interested in investing in a career that makes a difference?

Consider joining the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. It’s our mission to manage and conserve Colorado’s natural resources for the benefit of people today – and tomorrow. That means we have to balance development with conservation so the state we all love provides similar opportunities for our children and their children.

We invite you to explore our website athttps://dnr.colorado.gov/ to find out more about the work we do to manage Colorado’s natural resources for today – and tomorrow.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply.

In addition to offering rewarding, meaningful work, we offer:

+ Medical and Dental plans

+ Strong, flexible retirement plans including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus pre-tax 401K and 457 plans

+ Paid life insurance

+ Short- and long-term disability coverage

+ Employee Wellness programs

+ Flexible Spending Accounts

+ Health Savings Accounts

+ 11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave

+ Flexible work schedule options and remote-work options

+ Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system

Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to: https://studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/pslfFlow.action#!/pslf/launch

Division of Water Resources (DWR):

State Engineer's Office

Our mission is to administer the waters of the State to maximize lawful beneficial use, ensure that dams and water wells are properly constructed and safe, and provide information about water resources to the public. Division of Water Resources (https://dwr.colorado.gov/)

The Division of Water Resources (DWR) hydrographic program is essential for determination of water availability, critical to the allocation of Colorado water rights by the State Engineer.

The hydrographic work unit exists to research, analyze and provide hydrographic information used to determine the daily surface water supply for administration of water rights. The unit determines the location, measurement method and installation/maintenance of hydrographic field gaging/research stations to verify accurate streamflow data. Numerous federal and local agencies and analysts rely on the data generated by the program including: the United States Bureau of Reclamation for Grand Valley Project power right and Fryingpan Arkansas Project collection system minimum index flow requirements administration; Colorado Water Conservation Board for instream flow water rights; United States Fish and Wildlife Service for Upper Colorado Endangered Fish Recovery Program; Silt Water Conservancy District for the Silt Project; Grand Valley Water Users Association, Orchard Mesa Irrigation District, Palisade Irrigation District, and Mesa County Irrigation District for Grand Valley Project; State and County emergency management flood monitoring; public and private modelers; policy analysts and decision makers regarding the changes in Colorado streamflow volumes; and water rights use evaluation.

Description of Job

OPEN ONLY TO CURRENT RESIDENTS OF COLORADO

The position exists as the staff authority to manage scientific hydrographic expertise of approximately 50 hydrologic/research gaging stations operated/maintained throughout Division 5 to provide accurate streamflow data/monitoring required for compliance with numerous Federal and local agency projects and extensive division-wide primary and tributary river/stream administration. The position acts as the authority and directs the Division 5 hydrographic program in which hydrographic technicians analyze and assure quality of continuous data compilation, along with development and publication of annual streamflow record data in accordance with United States Geological Survey and State standards established by the Division of Water Resources. The position determines the most appropriate measurement method, implements the construction of new research gaging stations and provides program management and oversight of all streamflow and diverted water measurement devices and equipment including calibration, monitoring, and repair of stage sensor and satellite transmission equipment, measurement method analysis and protocol, inspection of water measurement structures for accuracy, correction of observed problems and programs to collect data required for water supply forecasting in various watersheds throughout the Division.

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

OPEN TO STATE OF COLORADO RESIDENTS ONLY

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience Only:

Eight (8) years of relevant experience with scientific field investigations related to measuring surface water flows or other experience related water or natural resources.

OR

Education and Experience:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to eight (8) years. Related degrees include engineering, hydrology, water resource management, or environmental engineering.

Please note: The required experience must be substantiated within the work experience section of your application. Your resume will not be reviewed to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications; only the work experience section of your application will be reviewed to determine this. “See Resume” statements on the application will not be accepted. In addition, part-time work will be prorated.

If you are using a degree to substitute for the required experience, you may be required to provide copies of your educational transcripts for verification of your qualifications if requested.

Preferred Qualifications:

+ Current or former State experience relevant to this position.

+ Experience with assisting customers and/or public outreach.

+ Experience with complex data acquisition and analysis

+ Extensive knowledge of flow measurement device installation/operation including Parshall Flumes and Rectangular/V-Notch/Cipolletti Weirs.

+ Extensive knowledge/experience with open channel flow measurement techniques.

+ Knowledge of channel control structures and configuration.

+ Knowledge/experience with electronic device circuitry, power requirements, wiring, functionality, and programming.

+ Other experience relevant to the use or management of water resources.

+ Proficiency with Google and Microsoft suites including Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel.

The current work arrangement for this position is as follows:

(Please note, this arrangement can be subject to change)

+ Primarily reporting to the main Division office with potentially extensive field time and limited work from home.

Conditions of Employment:

+ Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application and provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify their application from the current position. (Please Note: Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with DNR).

+ Must be willing and able to possess and maintain a State of Colorado Driver's License

+ Must have the ability to report to the work location that can include off-road conditions and rugged terrain.

+ Must have the ability to independently access remote locations to complete work assignments within the division.

+ Must be willing and able to perform physical tasks, which may include lifting up to 50 lbs.

+ Must be prepared to defend and support actions and records in depositions or court testimony.

+ Must be able to address frequent and detailed inquiries from attorneys, professional engineers and hydrologists from government and private agencies.

APPEAL RIGHTS:

It is recommended that you contact the Human Resources Specialist listed below to resolve issues related to your possession of minimum qualifications. However, if you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director.

An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email, US Mail, faxed or hand delivered within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.

For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board go tospb.colorado.govor refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, atspb.colorado.govunder Rules.

Supplemental Information

The Assessment Process

+ All applications received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed by an HR Specialist against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement.

+ Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Part of, or all of, the comparative analysis for this position will be a structured application review by Subject Matter Experts.

+ Resumes, cover letters and other attachments are not considered as part of initial reviews, therefore, it is important todocument in your application your education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications as outlined in the job announcement .

+ Please thoroughly answer all supplemental questions (if listed) since question responses may be evaluated for content, writing ability, spelling, grammar, and effective communication.

+ This recruitment may involve additional testing and/or exams to arrive at the top group for interviews.

+ This posting could be used to fill other vacancies of the same level and same reporting location.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, at [email protected].

ADAAA Accommodations

Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact our ADAAA Coordinator at [email protected] at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.

E-Verify

The Department of Natural Resources participates inE-Verify (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/E-Verify\_Participating\_Employer.jpg) in accordance with the program'sRight to Work (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/ier\_righttoworkposter-%20jpeg(1).jpg) for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S.Learn more (https://www.e-verify.gov/) about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.

Toll–Free Applicant Support - Technical Help

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with technical issues. Helpful hints: If you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and close the document before you attempt to upload it.

The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits

Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.

01

The Colorado Constitution, Article XII, Section 13 requires that APPLICANTS for state classified government jobs be residents of Colorado, unless this requirement is waived by the State Personnel Board. There is no residency waiver for this announcement. Please confirm that you are a current resident of Colorado.

+ Yes

+ No

02

Current and former State Personnel System employees who were disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or who were deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation) must disclose this information on the application.

+ I am not a current or former State of Colorado classified employee.

+ I am a current or former State of Colorado employee but have NEVER been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation).

+ I am a current or former State of Colorado employee and have been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation). NOTE: Failure to disclose this information and/or falsification of Application materials may result in being removed from consideration for this position.

03

Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose this information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify you application from the current position:

04

If you are using education to meet or substitute for qualifications, did you upload a copy of your official or unofficial transcript? (Your transcript is required as verification that you meet the requirements).

+ Yes, I have attached my transcripts.

+ No, I am not using college course work to meet minimum requirements for this position.

+ Not Applicable

05

Did you upload your résumé and cover letter to this on-line application?

+ Yes

+ No

06

Part, or all, of the assessment for this position involves a review of the information you submit in your application materials. This announcement requires a Cover Letter and Resume. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached" statements on your application. Resumes and Cover Letters WILL NOT be reviewed for minimum qualification screening. Please acknowledge your understanding of this notice and requirements:

+ I affirm I understand the above statement and completed all sections of the application

07

If you are a veteran who is eligible for preference points, did you upload/attach your DD-214? Veterans who wish to seek disability preference points based on a service related disability must submit acceptable documentation to support your claim for veterans' preference (exclude specific/private medical information).

+ Yes

+ No

+ Not Applicable

08

Describe your experience in water resources work - specifically water quantity/quantification.

09

Describe your education in water resource management - specifically in open channel flow.

10

Please describe your experience using Google and Microsoft suites as well as any software specific to water-related data compilation and analysis.

11

Please describe your experience assisting customers and public outreach.

12

Describe your experience, in an authoritative role, providing oversight and leadership of team employees working within the same field/project.

13

Describe your experience communicating detailed and specific information with the general public as well as higher level knowledge with people possessing technical/engineering expertise.

14

Do you have an intimate or familial relationship with anyone who works at DNR or DWR?

15

Do you or your family have any private interests that could result in a conflict of interest or perceived conflict of interest with the job duties of this position (such as personal water rights)?

Required Question

Employer

State of Colorado

Address

See the full announcement by clicking

the "Printer" icon located above the job title

Location varies by announcement, Colorado, --

Website

https://careers.colorado.gov/

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