Sara Wang

Environmental Aide Job Application Letter

Spring 2019

To whom it may concern,

My name is Sara Wang and I am applying to be an environmental aide for the

Department of Natural Resources and Parks. In this job application letter I’d like to briefly
discuss my qualifications for this position.
First and foremost, I am graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
and a minor in Biology from the University of Washington in Bothell.
My most recent work position as an OWL (Outdoor Wellness Leader) on the UWB
campus has taught me many skills that transfer to this position; I am able to work independently
and collaboratively. As an OWL I lead outdoor trips with a co-lead, we were in charge of leading
groups ranging from 4 to 12 people. We were tasked with planning all events from start to finish,
this included office hours every week that had little supervision.
During my time in undergraduate studies I attained many skills pertinent to this job. In
my “science, methods, and practices” class I learned how to use microsoft excel proficiently. I
organized and analyzed a large amount of data for the research paper I wrote that is titled
“Sweet Grass Research Paper” in my portfolio.
I also am proficient with GIS and using ArcMaps, which is shown by the research project
titled “Salmon Habitat Restoration; Areas of Concern” in my portfolio.
I have experience with in-stream and habitat data collection from many of my classes at
UWB. These classes include; Intro to Restoration Ecology, where I learned how to take detailed
field notes; Hydrogeology, where I collected in-stream data; Soils Laboratory, where I collected
soil samples and analyzed them; Environmental Monitoring Practicum, where I collected and
cultured E. Coli samples; and Ecology, where I collected various habitat data and analyzed
them. In all of these courses we were taught to use the Quality Assurance/Quality Control
(QAQC) methods of data collecting which ensures that quality samples are being collected.
On top of all these learned skills, I am also very physically capable. I am a strong
swimmer from spending many summers swimming in the ocean in Hawaii. In my free time I am
an avid weightlifter and rock climber; I am able to lift and carry 40 lbs with ease.

https://www.governmentjobs.com/jobs/2410845-0/environmental-aide

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

● Ability to work independently, take initiative and make judgment calls based on field
conditions
● Ability to work collaboratively on a team.
● Proficiency with commonly used computer software (Microsoft Office, including Excel,
and Word)
 ● Enthusiasm to work outdoors in a range of weather and field conditions often for 8-10
hours per day
● Ability to read a map and navigate in rural areas (sometimes without the aid of cell
service)
● Attention to detail and ability to take thorough field notes
● Interest in urban streams and biological monitoring
● Ability to swim (First Aid and CPR training will be provided)
● Experience with in-stream and habitat data collection or previous field work experience a
plus, but not required.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

ArcGIS skills desired, but not required

Bachelor's Degree in Aquatic Ecology, Environmental Science or associated field.

Supplemental Information
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position requires the ability to
perform field work under difficult conditions, including: wading in and working around streams and
rivers; walking on uneven terrain and in slippery conditions; and carrying up to 40 lbs. of field
equipment for short distances. Long hours (10 hour days) will be necessary to complete field work
which can occur in remote locations and during inclement weather.