Surface Water Professional 2026-01966

State of Wyoming•Cheyenne, WY

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The mission of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and Board of Control is to provide for the general supervision and protection of the quantity of both inter and intrastate waters of Wyoming. This includes the appropriation, distribution, and application of the beneficial use of water as provided under the prior appropriation doctrine, and maintaining the flexibility within that framework to meet the changing needs of the citizens of Wyoming. The State Engineer's Office collects, analyzes, maintains, and provides water-related information for ensuring the appropriate management and regulation of the quantity of Wyoming's water resources. The projects of the Surface Water Professionals are the first step in the process of obtaining the right to use the surface water of the state. The proper evaluation of applications for a permit, along with petitions to correct existing permits, creates a solid foundation for the later adjudication and regulation of the water rights by other members of the State Engineer's Office team.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in geology, hydrogeology, engineering, environmental, physical, or natural science
3 years of work experience in water resource management
Knowledge of Wyoming water law; policies, procedures, and business practices of the State Engineer's Office; geologic, and irrigation principles and practices; flow measuring devices; legal land descriptions; surveying principles; hydrogeologic processes and multiple sciences and engineering disciplines.
Ability to present and convey information clearly and concisely to groups or individuals verbally, electronically, and in writing to ensure they understand the information.
Possess an empathetic customer service outlook.
Possess math ability through algebra and geometry.
Ability to correctly read maps and design plans.
Ability to identify problems and use logical judgment and data to evaluate information and use effective approaches for choosing a course of action.
Ability to work using self-directed time management.
Familiar with computer applications (database, spreadsheet, presentation, word processing, GIS software).
Ability to develop collaborative relations to facilitate the accomplishment of work goals and to build strategic relations among people, workgroups, and divisions (both internal and external).
Ability to deal with others in difficult and complex situations to achieve resolution or adherence to laws and/or rules and regulations.
Bachelor's (typically in The Sciences)
0-3 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Specialist OR 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Specialist

Nice To Haves

Engineers-in-Training with an interest in dam safety and evaluation are encouraged to apply, as there is an opportunity to work with a Professional Engineer.

Responsibilities

Reviews permit applications, maps, and water rights petitions for surface water appropriations to ensure the accuracy of designs and adherence to Wyoming Water Laws and policies.
Coordinates with applicants and their agents to resolve problems, discrepancies, and deficiencies on petitions, applications, maps, and reports in accordance with Wyoming law, rules, and regulations.
Assists surface water appropriators with water rights inquiries and the filing of water rights applications.
Assists public agencies, other state agencies, and federal agencies in surface water-related issues.