Water Conservation Specialist 1 (57019,57016)

State of Montana•Billings, MT

About The Position

What if your next role lets you investigate water rights across Montana, contribute to critical water management decisions, and safeguard one of the state's most vital natural resources every single day? The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation DNRC Water Resources Division is recruiting multiple Water Conservation Specialist 1 positions across Montana to champion water resource management and ensure consistent stewardship of Montana's water rights. If you are a detail-driven natural resources professional who loves turning complex data into clear findings, seeks opportunity for field visits and wants your work to matter far beyond your desk, this position offers the chance to leave a lasting mark on how Montana's water is managed and protected. Why You Should Make the Move Lead water right investigation and analysis Serve as the Division's technical expert in evaluating water rights claims, analyzing water availability, and conducting comprehensive water use assessments across regional offices and programs. Evaluate the accuracy of claims to historical water use following Supreme Court rules, reviewing technical information in proposed and final orders. Conduct scientific field examinations, measure flow rates and volumes, and provide expert testimony in Water Court hearings and contested-case proceedings. Turn complex data into actionable findings Analyze water use statements, permits, and records using GIS mapping, aerial photographs, and field investigations to identify appropriation issues. Synthesize field data, water management information, and research findings into clear reports and presentations for the Water Court, the public, and agency partners. Review land title records, county documents, and water right records to process applications while ensuring compliance with state law and department policy. Support the water court and public understanding Provide technical and investigative assistance to department attorneys and Water Court staff on contested water rights issues. Gather and analyze facts related to water disputes, suggest alternatives for resolution, and maintain an unbiased position in addressing objections and conflicts. Research and compile water use information, well logs, and land ownership records to create GIS maps and detailed reports for the public, water users, attorneys, and the Water Court. Shape water management across Montana Assist with processing new water right applications, verification forms, splits, severs, ownership updates and temporary lease and change exception filings using statewide water databases and adhering to relevant statutes, rules and policies. Participate in training, conferences, and professional development to strengthen your expertise in water law, water measurement, and conflict resolution. Core Values of DNRC Water Resources Division · Value People · Stewardship · Service · Credibility · Engagement The selected candidate may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement. This position is eligible for a $1.00/hour base pay increase effective July 2026.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in natural resource management or natural sciences, plus a minimum of one year of experience with water resources management

Nice To Haves

Coursework in water resources, physical or natural sciences, engineering, public speaking, and writing is desirable.
Knowledge of (or ability to learn in a reasonable amount of time) Montana water law, relevant interstate and reserved water compacts, rules, policies, procedures, and government operations.
Water resource-related management theories, principles, concepts, and practices; field investigation methodologies; and negotiation and conflict resolution techniques.
Local water availability, water use practices, water measurement techniques and devices, irrigation methods and designs.
Public landownership records, court decrees and orders, and geological formations affecting water availability.
Local, state, and federal governmental administrative processes.
Skills in The use of personal computers and operating systems and appropriate software relating to databases on a PC.
Reading, understanding, and interpreting land descriptions.
Organizing and setting priorities while accomplishing numerous and diverse duties.
GIS applications and technical software programs.
Ability to: Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Analyze complex issues and make sound, defensible judgments.
Be organized, self-motivated, demonstrate initiative, and control projects.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Recognize problems or unusual situations and deal with them in a timely, effective manner.
Convey complex laws and technical information to the public in a clear and concise manner.

Responsibilities

Evaluate and analyze water right claims and water use information, provide technical assistance to the Water Court, and testify as an expert witness in contested cases and hearings.
Conduct scientific field investigations to measure water use, verify diversion and place of use, assess compliance with permits and regulations, and collect data on surface and groundwater conditions.
Process and fully review a variety of new water right applications and notices, research supporting records, and enter and maintain accurate information in the centralized water rights database.
Research and compile water use, well log, land ownership, and decree information to assist the public with precise information and interpretation in water resource matters.
Provide public assistance and apply dispute resolution techniques to analyze facts and laws, suggest alternatives, and help resolve water use conflicts and objections while remaining impartial.
Participate in meetings, trainings, and special projects, represent the Department to local groups, and contribute to planning, budgeting, and other regional office operational activities as assigned.

Benefits

Live and play in Billings Montana which is known for its scenic beauty including the Yellowstone River, Beartooth Mountains, Bighorn Canyon and it’s close proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Montana offers an abundance of recreational opportunities, including camping, fishing, hunting, as well as world class mountain biking and hiking.
Work/life balance.
Generous paid leave (vacation, sick, holidays), with vacation leave increasing with service.
Longevity pay with continued state service.
Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
Access to free employee medical clinics and telehealth.
Retirement plans (Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution plus an optional 457(b) Plan).
Public Service Loan Forgiveness - may qualify you for student loan forgiveness.
Career progression, professional development, and state employee discounts.
Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.