Water Quality Field Technician

Environmental Science Associates (ESA) is a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting firm. We plan, design, permit, mitigate, and restore for projects across our communities, infrastructure systems, open spaces, and wildlands. With 50 years of experience, we operate in 21 offices across California, the Pacific Northwest, and the Southeastern United States.

About the role

This full-time position (40 hours per week) provides field support for the South Florida Water Management District’s (SFWMD) Water Quality Bureau as a Field Technician/Scientist. Based at the SFWMD Field Station in Okeechobee, FL, you will join a team monitoring water quality to comply with permit requirements, legal mandates, and to inform management decisions and restoration strategies. Work is primarily field-based with some laboratory responsibilities. The WQ field team operates on a schedule of four 10-hour days, Monday through Thursday.

Responsibilities

• Collect manual and electronic surface water quality, ecological, and biological samples by land and boat at various field locations.
• Operate, clean, calibrate, and maintain monitoring equipment, including multi-parameter water quality sondes and automatic water samplers.
• Prepare samples for laboratory analysis.
• Clean and maintain sampling platforms and sites using vegetation control equipment and basic hand tools.

Requirements

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a natural science or related field.
• 0–2 years of professional experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and strong oral and written communication skills.
• Experience in field sampling techniques for surface water, working with field and water quality equipment, and trailering/operating powerboats (up to 23 feet in length) is highly preferred.
• Ability to lift 55 lbs. and work daily in remote, hot, humid, and wet conditions in habitats occupied by alligators, snakes, and stinging/biting insects.
• Comfort working in the field and occasionally in a laboratory setting.
• Must pass a background check and hold a valid Florida driver’s license.

Pay

Starting salary ranges from $42,000–$44,000 per year, based on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (70% paid for you and your family).
• Annual allocations of company shares through our ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan).
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement, professional development bonuses, and conference attendance support.
• Programs to further technical expertise, sharpen business acumen, or develop leadership skills.

Who We Are

ESA is a 100% employee-owned firm that values diversity and inclusion, celebrating the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our team. Our culture is built on mutual respect, fostering better solutions for our employee-owners and clients. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption is required for in-person work in applicable states.