Water Resource Specialists
What is a Water Resource Specialist?
Water Resource Specialists are professionals who focus on managing and protecting water resources, ensuring sustainable use and conservation of water for various needs such as agriculture, industry, and human consumption. They analyze water supply, quality, and demand, and work on projects that aim to maintain or restore water ecosystems. These specialists often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and the private sector to develop policies and practices that optimize water usage while safeguarding the environment. Their work involves conducting research, performing water quality assessments, and implementing water conservation measures. Additionally, they may engage in community outreach and education to raise awareness about the importance of preserving water resources. Water Resource Specialists are critical in addressing challenges such as drought, pollution, and the impacts of climate change on water supply.
Tasks
- Perform hydrologic, hydraulic, or water quality modeling.
- Analyze storm water systems to identify opportunities for water resource improvements.
- Conduct, or oversee the conduct of, investigations on matters such as water storage, wastewater discharge, pollutants, permits, or other compliance and regulatory issues.
- Develop strategies for watershed operations to meet water supply and conservation goals or to ensure regulatory compliance with clean water laws or regulations.
- Conduct technical studies for water resources on topics such as pollutants and water treatment options.
Technology Skills
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Geographic information system
- ArcGIS Pro
- ArcGIS 3D Analyst
- ArcGIS Pro/QGIS
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- Presentation software
- Analytical or scientific software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Spreadsheet software
Tools Used
- Nitrogen or nitrate or nitrite analyzer
- Commercial fishing nets
- Water samplers
- Water analyzers
- Two way radios
Knowledge
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Skills
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Abilities
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Detailed Work Activities
- Test green technologies or processes.
- Identify opportunities for green initiatives.
- Evaluate green operations or programs for compliance with standards or regulations.
- Develop environmental remediation or protection plans.
- Evaluate environmental or sustainability projects.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.