Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Athleticsleadership
Timeline
Generic
MELANEA G. STRAUSS

MELANEA G. STRAUSS

Linden,MI

Summary

Dedicated Environmental Biology Graduate equipped with a strong work ethic and a positive mindset, seeking to contribute to an environmental consulting firm. Expertise in sustainability practices for freshwater ecosystems, demonstrated through academic internships. Proven ability to analyze ecological data and develop actionable strategies for environmental preservation. Committed to advancing sustainable solutions that protect vital aquatic habitats in both marine and freshwater environments.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Site Inspector Lead/Task Force Leader

Tetra Tech
Los Angeles , CA
02.2025 - Current
  • Conducted comprehensive phase two environmental site assessments for multiple parcels affected by the Palisade wildfires, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards
  • Created detailed property maps for 500+ locations, highlighting critical utilities and hazards, and establishing an efficient system for debris removal teams.
  • Implemented a systematic tagging protocol for utilities and household hazardous materials, preventing safety incidents, and ensuring proper disposal methods throughout the recovery operation.
  • Collaborated with certified arborists to identify and document hazardous trees, prioritizing high-risk areas to optimize resource allocation for removal crews.
  • Developed and maintained a comprehensive digital logging system for tree and property documentation, improving data accuracy and enabling efficient tracking of removal progress
  • Supervised field crews, while successfully training and mentoring new team members in assessment protocols and safety procedures

Ecological Technician

Streamside Ecological Services
Reed City, MI
06.2024 - 09.2024
  • Conducted fish population studies and bio-assessments following state regulation protocols to develop population and habitat reports
  • Performed electrofishing using various techniques (backpack, boat, barge) for data collection and analysis
  • Executed water quality surveys using YSI meters to measure dissolved oxygen, pH, and other parameters
  • Identified Michigan macroinvertebrates for environmental surveying and stream health evaluation
  • Monitored water elevation and discharge volumes using Sontek FlowTracker and Marsh McBirney equipment
  • Conducted FERC-regulated impingement surveys for hydro facility compliance
  • Managed data entry and analysis using Excel for annual sampling reports

Aquatic Assistant/Certified Pesticide Applicator

PLM Lake and Land Management
Evart, MI
06.2023 - 08.2023
  • Assisted in herbicide applications for waterway treatment using precise chemical-to-water ratios to control algae and vegetation growth
  • Operated airboats and skiffs for herbicide application and transportation
  • Utilized GPS and mapping services for treatment site location
  • Assisted in site preparation and notification procedures for clients
  • Sampled and delivered water specimen for laboratory analysis

Education

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Biology

Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
12-2024

Mott Community College
Flint, MI

Skills

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Google Workspace
  • YSI meters
  • Sontek FlowTracker
  • Marsh McBirney
  • GPS systems
  • Electrofishing
  • Water quality testing
  • Freshwater species identification
  • Herbicide application
  • Backpack sprayer operation
  • Environmental assessment
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Site inspection
  • Data analysis
  • Team leadership
  • GPS navigation
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Field mapping
  • RecoveryTrac Flex Forms
  • iForms
  • Regrid (Land Parcel Navigation)
  • Adaptability

Certification

  • Aquatic Pesticide Applicator (Category 5)
  • Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Certification Part 48 (b) / Part 46
  • OHSA 40 Hour HAZWOPER Training

References

  • Jared Kelsh, Head Track/Cross Country Coach, Ferris State University, (231) 349-3794
  • Dr. Robert Workman, Professor of Biological Sciences, Ferris State University, (231) 912-0506
  • Bre Grabill, Northern Senior Regional Lakes Manager, PLM Lake and Land Management, (616) 826-8896

Athleticsleadership

NCAA Division 2 Track and Field/Cross Country Athlete, 08/2021-12/2024 

  • Developed strong team collaboration and communication skills
  • Demonstrated leadership through peer mentoring and team building
  • Excelled in high-pressure competitive environments

Timeline

Site Inspector Lead/Task Force Leader

Tetra Tech
02.2025 - Current

Ecological Technician

Streamside Ecological Services
06.2024 - 09.2024

Aquatic Assistant/Certified Pesticide Applicator

PLM Lake and Land Management
06.2023 - 08.2023

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Biology

Ferris State University

Mott Community College

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MELANEA G. STRAUSS