Senior Environmental Compliance Specialist

City of Aurora•Aurora, CO

About The Position

Aurora Water’s mission is to enhance and protect the quality of life for Aurora citizens by providing safe, dependable and sustainable water, sewer and stormwater services, today and in the future. The Senior Environmental Compliance Specialist, under the direct supervision of the Environmental Compliance Supervisor, primarily focuses on leading high-risk and complex efforts, applying specialized knowledge in one or more compliance sector (e.g., drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, hazardous materials & waste management). This position may serve as a functional supervisor, providing guidance to staff and representing the organization in external regulatory discussions and decision-making.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in environmental science, environmental policy, public administration, engineering, or other closely related field
At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in environmental compliance, regulatory program management, or a closely related field.
Specialized knowledge in at least one environmental regulatory compliance sector (e.g., drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, hazardous materials & waste management)
In-depth understanding of the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act requirements pertaining to the sectors of environmental regulatory compliance (e.g., drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, hazardous materials & waste management)
Strong interpersonal, decision making, analytical, and negotiating skills
Excellent customer service skills
Excellent oral and written presentation skills
Skill in reviewing and editing work of others, as necessary
Skill in the use of personal computers, including word processing applications
Ability to demonstrate subject matter expertise
Ability to identify compliance risks, analyze operations or regulatory gaps, and recommend practical solutions that align with legal requirements and department goals
Ability to clearly summarize regulatory requirements, compliance impacts, and technical information in writing and verbally to various stakeholders (internal staff, regulators, contractors, the public)
Ability to read, understand, and apply complex environmental laws, permits, and regulations to real-world operations
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, all levels of management including executive staff, citizens, and elected officials
Ability to provide timely, respectful, and solution-oriented customer service to internal and external stakeholders, including other departments, regulatory agencies, industry partners, and the public
Ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Colorado Driver’s license with a good driving history.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in environmental science, environmental policy, public administration, engineering, or a closely related field
Experience working for or with a municipal government or public utility, with an understanding of how environmental regulations apply across departments, capital projects and various municipal activities

Responsibilities

Leads compliance program development using technical expertise and oversees compliance program implementation in coordination with the Environmental Compliance Supervisor
Serves as the acting supervisor for the Environmental Compliance team during the absence of the Environmental Compliance Supervisor
Reviews regulatory reports and provides technical input for accuracy and completeness
Leads and oversees internal compliance audits and programmatic assessments to evaluate regulatory compliance
Develops advanced training content, provides high-level technical guidance, and delivers presentations at conferences or meetings as a subject matter expert
Reviews compliance documentation to ensure accuracy and alignment with current regulatory requirements
Maintains cross-sector awareness to support team coverage and collaboration through interpretation and guidance on regulatory changes
Represents Aurora Water in external discussions, workgroups, or formal comment processes that have potential to impact Aurora Water operations or activities
Identifies strategic opportunities for team-wide learning and growth and encourage knowledge sharing
Performs other related duties as assigned

Benefits

Competitive total compensation package
Well-Funded General Employees Retirement Plan
Light rail station minutes away
On-site fitness center and overall employee well-being programs
Internal educational programs to assist with career advancement
Access to innovation workspaces
Rich benefits package with low employee costs
Generous paid-time-off program (Vacation, Sick and Personal leaves)
Retirement pension plan
Rewarding public sector work impacting a large and diverse community
Growing city and employee population
Expansive perk benefits such as free Recreation Center Membership, wellness programs, tuition assistance, career advancement, performance bonus programs, etc.
On-site fitness center and wellness programs
Remote work opportunities