Job Description
Environmental Scientist
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The Center for Environmental Systems Analysis (CESA) is a unit of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering and the Environmental Engineering Program at the University of Colorado Boulder. CESA seeks to hire an environmental scientist to support various projects related to water quality of lakes and streams in Colorado, with an anticipated start date in July 2026.
CESA contributes to research and education and provides technical services related to complex environmental problems and regulatory matters. Office space is in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC), and the CESA analytical laboratory is in the SEEL building.
The fields of civil, environmental and architectural engineering offer careers in planning, design, construction and management of the built environment as well as in the interaction between the built and natural environment. The Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering's mission is the education of undergraduate and graduate students to become leaders in the professional practice of engineering, contributing to technological advances that benefit humankind while enhancing the earth’s physical and biological resources.
The Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering fosters an environment of inclusivity and celebrates the increasing diversity of our student body. We are committed to fostering inclusive excellence and have adopted priorities to guide our values and practices.
Primary duties associated with this position will include support for service activities, research, and teaching. Specific duties will include training and supervision of students and research personnel, analytical work in the laboratory, oversight of quality analysis and quality control, data entry, data analysis, help with water-quality modeling, help with preparation of proposals and technical reports, and field work. Other duties also may be required.
Typical work days will include a mix of laboratory work and office work, with occasional field work and travel to meetings. Some work days may be long, particularly when field work is required. Also, participation in field work may involve work in adverse weather conditions, travel to remote locations, and occasional overnight travel.
- Due to the requirements for work in the laboratory and supervisory duties, working from home on a routine basis will not be feasible with this position.
- A background check will be required in accordance with the Boulder Campus Background Check Policy.
- The starting salary range for this position is $4,800 – $7,400 per month.
- Relocation assistance may be available in accordance with College and Campus policy.
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
- Bachelor's degree in environmental engineering, ecology, chemistry, or a related field.
- Strong quantitative skills, the ability to swim, and a safe driving record.
- Experience in analytical chemistry, ecological field methods, and data management.
- Must be adaptable, work well independently and as part of a team, have a strong work ethic, and work safely, carefully, and efficiently.
- This position will offer opportunities for collaborative research. Therefore, the position is intended for someone with a desire to learn and an interest in research related to ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental engineering.
- An advanced degree (MS, PhD) with experience in analytical chemistry and ecological field methods is preferred but not required.
- The following experience is also preferred:
- Experience with low-level methods for nutrient analysis.
- Experience with data management.
- Proficiency with relevant computer software, (e.g., Microsoft Word and Excel, JMP, R, ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Familiarity with standard practices for quality analysis and quality control.
- Experience with limnological field methods.
- Experience with teaching or supervision.
To apply, please submit the following materials as individual files:
- Cover Letter: please explain your interest in this position, summarize your qualifications and long-term professional objectives, and provide contact information for three to five professional references. Also, please briefly describe your research interests in either your cover letter or in a separate document (labeled "Statement Describing Research Related Goals" below).
- Resume/CV.
- Transcripts/Proof of Degree.
- (Optional) Statement Describing Research Related Goals: If you did not describe your research interests in your cover letter, please upload a separate document containing that information.
This position will require one letter of recommendation from the final candidate. During the application process, you will be asked to provide the name and contact information for one reference, from whom we will request a letter later in the search process. This reference may be the same or different as the individuals listed in your cover letter.
For full consideration, please apply by June 3, 2026.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources
Posting Contact Email: [email protected]