Compliance and Water Quality Department Manager

Polk County•Winter Haven, FL

23h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Utilities Division is responsible for public health and safety, as well as safeguarding the environment, by providing crucial safe water and wastewater services. This position is part of the team that provides services necessary for human health, economic stability, and overall societal well-being. At the core of the mission of providing these services includes commitment to providing excellent customer service to our citizens, business partners, regulatory agencies, and other county divisions.

Requirements

Graduate from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrology, chemistry, biology or related discipline.
Six to seven (6-7) years’ experience in laboratory analyses and/or environmental monitoring, assessment, permitting and compliance which has included three (3) years of supervisory experience.
Must have a valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of employment.
Must have the physical, developmental and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities and duties of the job.
Thorough understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes
Knowledge of water quality monitoring practices and laboratory procedures
Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations governing water and wastewater systems
In-depth knowledge of current and emerging environmental issues and regulatory requirements
Understanding of compliance standards and enforcement strategies
Strong leadership and management skills, including planning, organizing, directing work, and developing staff
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with staff, regulatory agencies, and the public
Proficiency in computer applications for data analysis, report preparation, and database management
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address technical and compliance issues
Ability to demonstrate a high degree of integrity and honesty in all work activities
Ability to investigate, document, and report compliance issues accurately and thoroughly
Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and technical information
Ability to troubleshoot issues and develop effective corrective actions
Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, external agencies, and the public
All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency.
During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

Responsibilities

Plans, directs, supervises, and evaluates the work of skilled specialist and clerical staff
Trains, mentors, and evaluates laboratory and compliance staff
Prepares annual employee evaluations
Handles disciplinary matters and promotes continuous learning and improvement
Ensures adherence to the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act
Maintains compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations
Interprets regulatory requirements and supports implementation across operations
Develops, implements, and maintains water quality management programs
Establishes monitoring and sampling schedules
Oversees impact assessments related to water supply, wastewater treatment, disposal, and reuse
Evaluates impacts on public health and the environment
Analyzes water quality data
Prepares technical reports and permit applications
Submits required documentation to regulatory agencies
Maintains accurate compliance records and reporting systems
Oversees operations of a state-certified water quality laboratory
Ensures compliance with sampling protocols and quality assurance standards
Develops and maintains quality control procedures
Coordinates with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Quality Assurance (QA) programs
Acts as liaison between the Division, regulatory agencies, internal departments, and the public
Participates in meetings representing the Utilities Division
Addresses compliance and water quality concerns
Provides testimony at hearings related to technical data or regulatory interpretation
Investigates water quality concerns and sanitary sewer overflow incidents
Coordinates response efforts with internal teams and external agencies (e.g., Fire Department/Haz-Mat)
Develops and implements corrective actions
Assists in preparing and managing operating budgets
Oversees expenditures for compliance and laboratory needs
Plans for equipment, training, and technology resources
Prepares agenda items for consultants and regulatory contracts
Develops and updates internal policies and procedures
Ensures consistent administration of compliance and water quality programs
Performs other related duties as required
Responsibilities may evolve based on County needs