INTERA is seeking an entry-level Water Quality Data Specialist to join the Water Resources and Supply line of business in the Sacramento, California, office. This position is primarily office-based, but we may consider fully remote employees. The role supports technical work across a variety of projects, including ongoing collaboration with the California Department of Water Resources, as well as periodic data quality support for the Mining and Environmental line of business. Field work and travel may be required. This position is well-suited for individuals with a strong foundation in water quality analytical methods, data management, and database development.

This role requires careful attention to detail, an interest in working with complex datasets, and the ability to think critically to develop practical solutions. Our ideal candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous learning and values open, constructive feedback as part of professional growth. INTERA is dedicated to supporting professional growth, including mentorship and collaboration with experienced scientists and engineers who foster a supportive and team-oriented environment focused on delivering high-quality work to clients. Established career tracks provide opportunities for advancement as a scientist through discipline-specific technical communities, as well as pathways in business development and company management. Motivated candidates who are ready to grow their careers in water resources and data science are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

In this position, you will be contributing to a project team of scientists, engineers, and GIS analysts. Tasks and responsibilities include:

• Oversee and ensure that water quality data collected for multiple projects complies with defined data quality objectives
• Review and validate laboratory data, manage and analyze data, and compare water quality against regulatory standards
• Contribute to the scientific approaches we develop and deliver
• Develop and implement technical workflows
• Coordination with DWR Regional Office staff on the development and execution of standardized Access Agreements using an established workflow
• Serve as the primary point of contact for new requests and manage and maintain the agreement tracking system
• Contribute to technical reports, memoranda, and figures for project deliverables

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field
• 1 -5 years of applicable experience or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience
• Familiarity with relational database structure and design
• Experience with laboratory analytical reporting systems (e.g., LIMS) and data validation processes
• Ability to interpret and apply analytical methods and laboratory procedures to support accurate data collection and reporting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and programming languages such as R or Python
• Proven computer skills with solid knowledge data wrangling, data cleaning, and programming
• Strong organizational skills and proven ability to estimate level of effort, multitask, work independently, and proactively seek support
• Demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to coordinate, facilitate, and lead meetings
• Strong time management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines concurrently
• Exceptional problem-solving capability, attention to detail, effective communication, and interpersonal abilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in chemistry, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field
• Familiarity with data management systems (e.g., Access, EnviroData, EQuIS, etc.)
• Experience with statistical concepts and ability to apply statistical software for data analysis
• Strong knowledge of relational database design and structure.
• Demonstrated ability to work with laboratory analytical reporting systems (e.g., LIMS) and implement data validation processes
• Comprehensive understanding of hydrologic and hydrogeologic principles, including interpretation of related datasets.
• Knowledge of groundwater and surface water sampling methodologies
• Background supporting local and regional water resources planning efforts
• Exposure to structured query language (SQL)

About INTERA

INTERA is a Top Workplaces USA 2025 award winner!

Founded in 1974, INTERA has grown into an international geosciences and engineering consulting firm that helps clients make informed business decisions, mitigate risk, and drive optimal outcomes in a multitude of industries. Building and sustaining a strong company culture is at the heart of INTERA’s practice of good stewardship. We strive to foster an environment where people love the work that they do and the place that they work because we believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. As an employee-owned company, we are committed to investing in our people’s needs for security, health, and well-being with:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance that includes a free health plan option for employee-only coverage
• Paid parental leave – up to 12 weeks for birthing and non-birthing parents
• Group term life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, short-term and long-term coverage – paid 100% by the company
• Paid holiday, vacation, and sick time
• Opportunities for stock ownership
• Performance-based bonuses and award programs for technical paper publication and employee referrals
• Career coaching instead of performance evaluations
• Tuition reimbursement, financial assistance for professional licensure and registration, and one paid membership to a professional society
• Pet insurance, LegalShield, IDShield, and more

These are just some of the reasons why many of our employees have spent 10 to 25 years at INTERA. We love what we do, and it shows.