Entry-Level Hydrologist/Scientist (Biotech)

WEST Consultants, Inc., is seeking energetic and qualified applicants for an entry-level Hydrologist/Scientist position in our Vancouver, Washington, office.

About the Position:
In this role, you will support surface water hydrology projects through both field and office tasks focused on hydrologic data collection and hydrographic stream surveys. Your work will contribute to projects supporting environmental monitoring (streamflow, water quality, meteorological data), flood warning and public safety systems, regulatory compliance, and watershed management.

Educational Requirements:
Bachelors degree in a science-related field;or Associates degree in water resources; or prior training or full-time work experience in surface water data collection.

Experience Requirements:
0-3 years of relevant experience

Core Responsibilities:
Initially under direct supervision, you will perform tasks related to collecting hydrologic data and conducting routine data analysis. As you gain experience and practical understanding of surface-water measurement techniques, youll take on more diverse and complex assignments. Responsibilities include:
Installing, servicing, and repairing stream gages and weather stations.Measuring stream discharge using a variety of devices.Conducting bathymetric and land surveys to support hydraulic modeling Performing QA/QC of stream and weather station data Periodic independent fieldwork and seasonal travel, occasionally on short notice (primarily within Oregon and Washington) Other duties may be assigned.
Required Skills and Abilities:
Excellent written and oral communication skills.Ability to work independently, manage time, and work as part of a team.Strong computer skills required, proficiency in MS Office Suite - Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.Valid drivers license and ability to safely operate a company-owned pickup truck or SUV, including towing and maneuvering trailers. Willingness to travel to field sites, sometimes driving up to 6 hours per day.Willingness and ability to operate small watercraft in rivers and streams, or a willingness to be trained in riverine navigation and safety procedures.Physically capable of performing demanding manual labor in outdoor environments and variable weather conditions. Tasks may include digging, lifting, and carrying heavy equipment and supplies weighing up to 65 lbs, mixing and pouring concrete, and constructing stream gaging stations. Ability to work safely in outdoor environments, around streams and rivers, sometimes under adverse weather or flooding conditions.Fieldwork may require long days involving repetitive motions and sustained exertion, especially during the construction season. Ability to stand or walk for long periods on rough or uneven surfaces.Basic construction skills, including experience using both hand tools (e.g., hammers, shovels, levels) and power tools (e.g., drills, saws, compactors) safely and effectively. Familiarity with basic carpentry or concrete work is a plus.
Preferred Experience (Not Required):
Candidates with any of the following skills may be given preference:
Experience with stream gaging instrumentation (e.g., stage and velocity sensors, rain gages, water quality sensors)Discharge measurement using acoustic or mechanical current meters following USGS methodsFamiliarity with stream gaging software (e.g., AQUARIUS, WISKI)Understanding of telemetry systems such as ALERT, GOES, SCADA, or cellularExperience with bathymetric and land surveying equipment (Total Station, RTK GNSS, Single or multi-beam depth sounder).Understanding and troubleshooting of DC and AC electrical systems.
Salary Range:
$56,991 $81,687 annually
Rewarding Work Culture:
WEST offers a dynamic work environment with meaningful work in a team-based culture, providing competitive pay and comprehensive benefits that empower our employees and their families to achieve their financial, health, and security goals.
Market-priced compensation that values qualifications and performance. Share in the firms success with cash bonuses. Fast benefits eligibility. Flexible work with remote, hybrid, and in-office options. Training and education assistance to support career goals.
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
We offer a menu of benefits tailored to our employees unique needs:
High-value health plan options: We pay 100% monthly premiums for medical, dental, vision, prescription, life/AD&D, and long-term disability insurance coverage for eligible employees. We pay 50% monthly premiums for dependent coverage. Voluntary insurance plan options: Life, Short-term Disability, Hospital, Accident, Critical Illness, and Pet Insurance. Personal paid leave. Ten paid holidays, including employee birthday and personal day. Paid time off for volunteering, voting, military duty, jury duty, wedding, parental, and bereavement leave. 401(k) profit-sharing plan with a4% company match. Training, education assistance, seminars, conferences, and professional memberships to support career goals. Flexible spending account (FSA) for medical and dependent care. Employee assistance program (EAP) that provides resources and support. Travel assistance program. Employee referral incentives. And more.

WEST Consultants, Inc. (WEST) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and given the opportunity to thrive. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Veteran-Friendly Employer: WEST is proud to support and hire military veterans. We recognize and value the unique skills, experience, and leadership qualities that veterans bring to the workforce. We encourage veterans to apply for all open positions, and we are committed to helping you transition successfully into a civilian career.

Accommodation: WEST is committed to providing a fair and inclusive recruitment process. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please reach out to us. We are happy to make adjustments to ensure that all applicants can participate fully.

Visa Sponsorship and E-Verify: WEST does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. WEST uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all employees hired.

Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This may include verification of criminal history, educational credentials, professional certifications, employment history, and driving records (if applicable). Findings are evaluated in relation to the responsibilities of the role and in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. We are committed to fair-chance hiring practices, making employment decisions based on qualifications, skills, and potential, in alignment with applicable laws.