WETLAND ECOLOGIST (Environmental Scientist I)

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $25.27 - $35.00 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site

Recruiter – Karen Weir | kweir@utah.gov | 8015387425
Application Deadline – 5/10/2026

Job Description

The Utah Geological Survey (UGS) is seeking a Wetland Ecologist (Environmental Scientist I) to join our Groundwater and Wetlands Program. You will be part of a congenial, multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing rigorous, unbiased scientific data that informs natural resource management decisions for the public and government officials.
We are a group of intellectually curious scientists who value professional development and enthusiasm. The ideal candidate will have a background in ecology, environmental science, or watershed science, with proficiency in GIS and programming languages such as R, Python, or JavaScript. We are looking for a detail-oriented problem solver with strong writing skills and a collaborative spirit.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in data collection through field work and literature research
• Apply existing Python or R workflows to process data, conduct statistical analyses, or automate workflows
• Produce written reports and other outreach material such as presentations or ExperienceBuilder apps to communicate wetland project results
• Review data and participate in discussions for a variety of technical projects

Qualifications

Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree (B.S. or B.A.) or higher in ecology, watershed science, biology, geography, or related field, or equivalent professional experience in wetland ecology.
• Experience using R, Python or Javascript or any other programming language to process data and automate simple GIS or data management tasks
• Scientific writing skills to clearly communicate project results to both the general public and subject matter experts
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, government agencies, and the public.

Preferred or trainable/on-the-job qualifications: 

• Familiarity with wetland classification schemes, including Cowardin, hydrogeomorphic, and LLWW (landscape position, landform, water flow path, and waterbody type).
• Field experience in wetlands and other aquatic systems

About the Role

Location –
1594 West North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required – No
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – TL - Time limited

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. 
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. 
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
The Utah Geological Survey’s Groundwater and Wetlands Program staff is highly motivated, conducts rigorous multidisciplinary applied science throughout Utah, and features a friendly, supportive, and enthusiastic working environment.  We are fully engaged in providing data and analyses to help address Utah's critical wetlands and groundwater issues. Projects are multidisciplinary and require field work, data analyses, and report writing. Working at UGS provides an unmatched opportunity to conduct applied wetland research while enjoying a work-life balance that affords ample time for family, cultural, and outdoor activities. The State of Utah provides a generous benefits and retirement package, as well as ample vacation and sick leave.

http://geology.utah.gov/
http://naturalresources.utah.gov/
https://geology.utah.gov/water/groundwater/

 EEO Statement

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.