Scientist (Water Ecology) Guide
Scientists (Water Ecology) under supervision, with some latitude for the exercise of independent initiative and judgment, collect water samples and other environmental data in the field to support water ecology research; perform routine water ecology and water quality testing and analyses; may assist in performing moderately complex testing and analyses, employing standard controls, utilizing manual and automated techniques and conducting data and statistical analyses, using computer software and mathematical models; drive a motor vehicle from site to site in the performance of these duties. All Scientists (Water Ecology) perform related work.
SALARY RANGE
$52,804 minimum per annum (Current rate; subject to change; appointments made to Assignment Level I with three assignment levels available)
DIPLOMA LEVEL
High School / Degree
OPEN WINDOW
Filing Scheds
Key Job Duties
What you will act and execute daily upon appointment:
- Collect water samples and other environmental data in the field to support water ecology research.
- Perform routine water ecology and water quality testing and analyses.
- Assist in performing moderately complex testing and analyses, employing standard controls and utilizing manual and automated techniques.
- Conduct data and statistical analyses using computer software and mathematical models.
- Drive a motor vehicle from site to site in the performance of field duties.
- Perform related scientific and water quality research duties as assigned.
Filing & Appointment Eligibility
Candidates must fulfill these rules BEFORE certification:
- Pathway 1: A master’s degree from an accredited college or university in one of the following areas of study: environmental or chemical engineering, limnology, environmental science, marine science, geology, biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, or health science; OR
- Pathway 2: A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, including or supplemented by 24 semester credits in the areas of study described in (1), at least 12 of which must have been in one of these disciplines, PLUS at least one year of satisfactory full-time non-coursework professional experience in water quality planning, management or research, or performing environmental laboratory analyses and/or environmental field sampling of water; OR
- Pathway 3: An associate degree from an accredited college or university including or supplemented by 24 semester credits in the qualifying disciplines described in (1), at least 12 of which must have been in one of these disciplines, PLUS at least three years of satisfactory full-time experience as described in (2).
- Deadlines for Requirements: The education requirement must be met by September 22, 2027 (Civil Service Law Section 54(2)). The experience requirement must be met by the last day of the Application Period (September 22, 2026).
- Driver License Requirement: At the time of appointment, you must possess a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York. Moving violations, suspensions, or accident records may disqualify. Must be maintained for the duration of employment.
- Residency Requirement Advisory: Under NYC Administrative Code Section 12-120, you might need to be a resident of the City of New York within 90 days of appointment. Consult the appointing agency's personnel office at the time of appointment interview.
- English Requirement: You must be able to understand and be understood in English.
- Proof of Identity: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, you must prove your identity and right to obtain employment in the United States prior to employment.
Computerized Examination Pattern
Education and Experience Exam (EEE) evaluated via OASys. Candidates receive 70 points for meeting minimum education and experience requirements, plus up to 30 additional points for satisfactory full-time experience in water quality planning, management, research, or environmental laboratory analysis/sampling of water (from 3.75 points for 6 months up to 30 points for 4 or more years).
Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions
Physical activities performed and environments experienced in this role:
- Lift and carry packages weighing approximately 20 pounds for a distance of 30 feet.
- Perform duties in confined work areas and wear protective garments such as gloves, lab coats, goggles, and life vests.
- Handle and manipulate laboratory equipment, glassware, and precision tools requiring fine finger and hand coordination.
- Collect samples at field sites in all weather conditions.
Special Working Conditions
Operational environments and agency-specific criteria:
- Shift Schedules: Scientists (Water Ecology) may be required to work various shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
- Driver License: Must possess and maintain a valid New York State driver license for field sampling visits.
Filing and Application Fee Process
Apply online through the Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs. Application Fee: $68.00 (paying by card incurs a nonrefundable 2.00% service fee; waivers available for eligible candidates). You must finalize and submit your Education and Experience Exam in OASys by midnight Eastern time on September 22, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Timelines
Application Period: September 2, 2026 – September 22, 2026. Application Fee: $68.00. Education and Experience Exam must be Final Submitted in OASys by midnight Eastern time on September 22, 2026.
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