The McHenry County Department of Planning and Development Department is seeking qualified candidates for a Full Time Water Resources Specialist. Under general supervision from the Water Resources Manager, the Water Resources Specialist facilitates the regional management of the county’s water supply by coordinating efforts to protect ground and surface water quality and quantity.
Water Resources Specialist
Full Time: Monday – Friday 8:00-4:30
Grade 10E (exempt)
Hiring Salary: $49,085 depending on qualifications
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: (All responsibilities may not be performed by all incumbents.)
- Facilitate implementation of the McHenry County Water Resources Action Plan (WRAP) by the county, municipalities and other governmental agencies, and the private sector.
- Organize and facilitate stakeholder meetings.
- Apply for and manage federal, state, and foundation grants.
- Manage the county’s ground water and stream gage monitoring program.
- Research and assist with developing regulations to protect water quality and quantity.
- Coordinate scientific studies analyzing the quality and quantity of water resources.
- Develop and deliver educational programs for children and adults.
- Prepare press releases and articles for publication.
- Educate the public and policy makers regarding various USGS and ISGS technical studies.
- Coordinate data collection and preparation of the county’s annual MS4 permit.
- Assist with preparation of the county’s annual National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) review.
- Develop a comprehensive water conservation program.
- Participate in water resource management organizations and watershed planning initiatives.
- Monitor and assist with the development of the county’s response to Federal and State legislation related to water resources.
- Assist in other water resources related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with course work in hydrology, geology, soil science, environmental science, earth science, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field; and
- Two to three years of relevant experience; or
- Any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job.Licenses and Certifications:
- Certified hydrologist, licensed professional geologist, certified professional soil scientist, certified professional soil classifier, licensed professional engineer, or similar professional credentials preferred.
- Driver’s License.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of:
- The science, principles, and practices water resources management.
- County, State, and Federal regulations and laws regarding ground water and storm water management.Skill in:
- Preparing clear written reports and presentation utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
- Communicating clearly and effectively in individual and group settings, including providing public presentations.
- Using tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment.
- Applying logical thinking to solve problems or accomplish tasks; understanding, interpreting and communicating complicated scientific information.
- Organizing work, setting priorities, meeting critical deadlines, and following up assignments with general supervision.
- Reading reports, studies, plans, and maps.Mental and Physical Abilities:
- Ability to read, analyze, interpret, and develop technical reports and presentations.
- Ability to perform multiple tasks and manage time effectively.
- Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
- Ability to communicate complex scientific and engineering concepts.While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is required to frequently or occasional sit, stand, walk, handle, reach with hands and arms, lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and talk or hear.Working Conditions:
- Office work is performed in an office environment with quiet working conditions.
- Occasional field work may be performed in suburban, rural, and natural environments.Benefits:McHenry County offers an excellent benefits package which includes the following:
- High Deductible Health Plan and Dental Insurance,
- Flexible Spending Account
- Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
- Paid Holidays, Vacation Personal and Sick leave
No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against because of age, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or disability.
