Job Title: Source Water Protection Specialist
Reports To: Executive Director
Location: Montana (Statewide travel required)
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Summary:
Montana Rural Water Systems, Inc. is seeking a dedicated Source Water Protection Specialist to support rural and small public water systems throughout Montana. This role will focus on safeguarding drinking water sources through technical assistance, development and implementation of Source Water Protection Plans (SWPPs), stakeholder engagement, and community education.
Key Responsibilities:
Source Water Protection Plan Development and Implementation:
- Develop and implement at least three Source Water Protection Plans annually.
- Conduct on-site assessments to evaluate potential contaminant sources using established state guidance.
- Collaborate with water system operators and local, state, and federal stakeholders to develop comprehensive SWP Plans, including agriculture-focused components.
- Provide ongoing assistance to implement plans effectively.
Technical Assistance and Support:
- Deliver at least 300 hours of direct, onsite technical assistance annually related to source water protection.
- Guide water systems in interpreting and complying with relevant state and federal regulations.
- Facilitate community education, outreach efforts, and emergency response planning.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:
- Coordinate and lead annual Source Water Protection Workshops.
- Maintain effective communication and partnerships with agencies such as MT DEQ, USDA FSA, NRCS, and EPA Region 8.
- Represent Montana Rural Water Systems at public meetings, watershed groups, conservation district activities, and planning sessions.
- Engage professionally within NRWA’s national member community.
Program Administration and Reporting:
- Prepare and submit detailed Operating Plans and other required documentation.
- Maintain meticulous records of technical assistance, stakeholder engagement, and plan completions.
- Ensure adherence to NRWA, USDA, and federal compliance requirements.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental science, Geology, Hydrology, Natural Resources, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of two years’ experience in water resource management, environmental compliance, or related technical fields.
- Familiarity with public water systems and groundwater/surface water dynamics.
- Proficiency in GIS, Microsoft Office, and online reporting tools.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and facilitation skills.
- Ability to work independently, travel frequently, and represent MRWS professionally.
Additional Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license with regular statewide travel capability.
- Attendance at annual NRWA training and technical conferences.
- Availability for day and evening meetings, public workshops, and occasional overnight travel.
- Personal vehicle use required (reimbursed at the federal rate).
Physical Demands:
- Ability to work indoors and outdoors under various environmental conditions, including adverse weather.
- Regularly lift or move items up to 20 pounds, occasionally heavier.
- Operate a motor vehicle for extended periods.
Benefits:
- Employer-paid Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Retirement plan with a 7% employer contribution
- 13 paid holidays annually
Salary: Commensurate with experience.