Compliance and Water Quality Department Manager

Polk County Board of County Commissioners•Winter Haven, FL

1d•$92,164 - $138,236•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 thorough understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes.
Must have knowledge of water quality monitoring practices and laboratory procedures.
Must be familiar with local, state, and federal regulations governing water and wastewater systems.
Must have in-depth knowledge of current and emerging environmental issues and regulatory requirements.
Must have understanding of compliance standards and enforcement strategies.
Must possess strong leadership and management skills, including planning, organizing, directing work, and developing staff.
Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with staff, regulatory agencies, and the public.
Must be proficient in computer applications for data analysis, report preparation, and database management.
Must possess 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.
Must have a valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of employment.
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

Performs advanced professional, scientific, and administrative work to ensure the Polk County Utilities Division’s compliance with applicable local, state, and federal water quality regulations.
Oversees monitoring, sampling, and analytical programs.
Manages the water quality laboratory.
Prepares permits and compliance reports.
Coordinates with regulatory agencies.
Administers the County’s Environmental Regulatory Program.
Develops and implements compliance programs.
Investigates and resolves water quality and regulatory issues.
Trains personnel.
Manages program budgets.
Serves as a subject matter expert in environmental compliance.
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.