Water Resources Specialist

City of Apple Valley•Central Maintenance Facility - Apple Valley, MN

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Assists in the administration and implementation of policies and programs in the Natural Resources Division to preserve and enhance water resources. Assists in planning maintenance, improvements, and water quality monitoring for approximately 300 lakes, ponds and wetlands.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in water resources, natural resources, aquatic biology, limnology, environmental studies, or closely related field.
Three years of related field experience in implementing water resources projects, plans, or monitoring.
Working knowledge of water resources management practices and principles, including requirements of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Permit (MS4) Program.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Ability to perform research, assemble information, and prepare detailed reports of technical information for a variety of audiences.
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, other agencies, volunteer groups, and residents.
Strong customer service orientation; must maintain a positive professional manner while resolving citizen issues.
Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office, Windows, and other departmental software such as Asset Management software.
Ability to organize and lead multiple projects and priorities, manage workload, work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Valid driver's license and excellent driving record.
Ability to safely operate a watercraft and use a variety of scientific field equipment including water auto samplers, probes, and rain gauge.
Ability to follow safe work practices according to law, City policies, and generally accepted safe work standards.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in water resources, natural resources, aquatic biology, limnology, environmental studies, or closely related field.
Additional years of work experience in a related field.
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) or Erosion Control Certification.
Advanced understanding of federal, state, and local laws governing stormwater best management programs and public water projects.
Experience administering the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act.
Proficient with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications and Asset Management software Cartegraph OMS.
Proficient in native plant vs. invasive species field identification.
Demonstrated ability to provide ideas for innovations and follow through to implementation.
Experience engaging audiences through social media outreach and traditional educational channels.
Experience grant writing in water or natural resources.

Responsibilities

Assists with coordination of federal and state agencies regarding water quality issues.
Responsible for the development, implementation, and record keeping requirements related to the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Permit (MS4) Program.
Assists with the administration and implementation of water resources programs among agencies and City departments.
Inspects and prioritizes ponds and wetlands for improvement projects on an annual basis.
Assists in targeted subwatershed planning to improve lake health in several impaired water bodies.
Leads field data collection and database management related to water quality programs.
May include water quality monitoring, wildlife and vegetation surveys, and wetland monitoring.
Assists with coordination of water quality programs for lake association groups, watershed organizations, and state and county government agencies.
Addresses concerns and may act as liaison to these entities.
Assists in the review of land બના proposals to determine impact on water resources.
Assists with recommendation of measures to protect water quality in lakes, ponds, and wetlands.
Ensures implementation and compliance with City plans, ordinances and policies related to water quality and environmental resources.
Coordinates wetland protection activities, including administration of the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act.
Keeps informed on all current specifications, regulations, codes, practices, and standards related to water resources.
Responds to citizen complaints and requests for assistance with native landscaping, drainage, erosion control, aquatic vegetation species identification, and water quality issues.
Coordinates content for social media and website.
Assists at community events, workshops, and watershed events.
Assists in the development, implementation, coordination, and presentation of volunteer programs related to lake and wetland monitoring and protection, including Citizen Assisted Monitoring Program (CAMP) and Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP).
Includes seeking out new volunteers and coordinating volunteer groups.
Manages the implementation of the City's storm drain stenciling program.
Responds in a timely manner to requests for information by residents and other parties.
Assists in grant activities for water resources and natural resources projects.
Researches grant opportunities, provides input for grant development, and assists in grant writing, implementation, and administration.
Oversees a variety of contractors performing work for stormwater maintenance practices to ensure functionality, lake management activities, or restoration projects.
Serves as the main liaison to communicate updates from the contractor and the neighborhood.
Assists with forestry and other natural resources functions as necessary.
Oversees City’s Deer Management Program and assists residents with questions concerning to wildlife.
Performs other duties consistent with the tasks of the position as assigned by the City.