Water Resources Specialist

Westlands Water District•Fresno, CA

2d•$100,008 - $200,016

About The Position

Westlands Water District is seeking a talented and analytical Water Resources Specialist to help address complex water resource challenges in California. The position supports long-term water supply planning, groundwater management, environmental compliance, and strategic resource initiatives for one of the nation’s largest agricultural water districts. Work may involve Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations; groundwater management and water supply reliability; environmental compliance and permitting; water policy, economic, and technical analyses; hydrologic and operational forecasting; strategic planning; and stakeholder coordination. The successful candidate will translate complex technical and regulatory information into practical recommendations that support water management decisions. The position is located in Fresno or Sacramento, California. The annual salary range is $100,008–$200,016, with an anticipated hiring range of $100,008–$150,000 depending on qualifications. Applications are accepted beginning October 21, 2026, and the position is open until filled. Applicants must submit a completed Employment Application through the District’s website; applications submitted through third-party career platforms are not accepted as a substitute. A resume may be attached but will not be considered instead of a completed application.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Water Resources, Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Agricultural Science, Public Policy, Economics, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
Three years of professional experience in water resources or a related discipline.
A master’s degree may substitute for two years of experience.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including the ability to translate complex technical and regulatory information into practical recommendations.

Responsibilities

Support long-term water supply planning and strategic resource initiatives.
Contribute to groundwater management and water supply reliability efforts.
Work on environmental compliance and permitting.
Conduct or support water policy, economic, and technical analyses.
Support hydrologic and operational forecasting.
Coordinate strategic planning and stakeholder engagement.
Translate technical and regulatory information into practical recommendations for water management decisions.
Work on projects involving Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations.