Environmental Scientist-Chemistry Specialist I/II

Position: Environmental Scientist-Chemistry Specialist I/II
Organization: Oka’ Institute
Reports to: Director of Oka/ CURL Lab Manager
Type: Full-Time Exempt

Job Overview:
The Oka Institute is seeking a motivated and dedicated individual to join our team as an 
Environmental Scientist. This position plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of the 
Oka Institute, which is to address water quality solutions through water research, land 
stewardship, water policy, and the promotion of sustainable communities. As an 
Environmental Specialist, you will work on water quality and environmental monitoring in 
watersheds, equally supporting both field and laboratory-based efforts.

Responsibilities:

Field and Laboratory
• Participate in fieldwork, including data collection, site assessments, and environmental 
monitoring
• Calibration and maintenance of scientific equipment/instrumentation to ensure data 
quality and maximal longevity
• Complete laboratory analyses using promulgated methods for a wide range of 
technologies: 
• Assist in method development and refinement for water and soil quality analyses, 
collaborating with researchers on experimental design and data interpretation

Collaborator Engagement and Technical Writing
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to contribute to the development of water 
policies, research studies, and community engagement initiatives.
• Stay current on emerging trends, technologies, and advancements in environmental 
sciences, watershed management, and natural resources.
• Prepare data narratives, journal articles, and presentations that effectively
communicate research findings and recommendations to both internal and external 
stakeholders.

Data Review and Analysis
• Perform independent analysis and interpretation of environmental data to draw 
meaningful conclusions and recommendations.
• Enter and manage field and laboratory data using software tools and GIS platforms; 
create both digital and print mapping products.
• To ensure data of know quality, participate and adhere to quality assurance 
requirements of the facility including, data review, writing and revising procedural 
documents, and internal audits

Qualifications:
• Minimum of bachelor’s degree in chemistry, hydrology, geochemistry, 
environmental sciences, or a related field. 
• 2 years working in a laboratory setting and field sampling. 
• Strong passion for environmental science, conservation, and sustainable practices.
• Written and verbal communication skills that facilitates effective translation of
complex scientific findings into clear messages for the intended audience.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in the field and with lab teams.
• Proficiency in standard software tools for data entry, analysis, and reporting.

Experience:
• Demonstrated experience with field-based environmental monitoring and lab-based 
analytical methods.
• Aptitude to learn and implement analytical methods and laboratory techniques
related to water or soil quality. This includes writing standard operating procedures 
and data collection forms.
• Laboratory work using promulgated methods for a wide range of technologies: 
spectrophotometric, microbiological (enzyme-substrate and plate-based), pH, ICPOES, TOC combustion analyzers, multi-analyte probes

Preferences:
- Laboratory work conducted under a quality management system, i.e. ISO 
17025.
- Experience using GIS for data collection, analysis, and visualization.

East Central University, in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admission, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Employment Services Director, 1100 E. 14th St., Danley Hall 111, Ada, OK 74820, (580) 559-5260.

Please ensure you have completed the Affirmative Action Disclosure Statement with your application.

Affirmative Action Disclosure Statement (Fillable).pdf

Salary : $55,000 - $75,000