Water Resources Specialist

The Water Resources Specialist I supports the Agency’s groundwater and surface water programs by collecting, maintaining, and analyzing data used for modeling, planning, and compliance reporting. They serve as part of the technical backbone of the Agency’s water data programs – bridging field operations, data quality assurance, and applied hydrologic analysis.

Field Data Collection & Monitoring

• Follows established sampling and monitoring procedures for wells, stream gages, and facilities.
• Calibrates and maintains field instruments under supervision.
• Accurately records field data and identifies potential anomalies for review.

Data Management & Quality Assurance

• Enters field data accurately into Agency databases and spreadsheets.
• Performs basic QA/QC checks.
• Flags missing or anomalous values for correction.

Technical Analysis & Reporting

• Prepares basic charts, maps, and summaries of field data using Excel, GIS, or similar tools.
• Assists in drafting tables and figures for reports.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Operates basic field equipment (e.g., water level meters, flow meters, sampling devices).
• Performs simple maintenance and follows safety procedures.

Project Coordination

• Provides logistical and field support for groundwater, surface water, and infrastructure projects.
• Communicates clearly with team members and follows work plans.

Strategic Agility

• Understands how their tasks contribute to immediate team goals.
• Is receptive to changes in direction.

Operational Effectiveness

• Completes tasks accurately and on time.
• Plans daily work and adjusts priorities as needed.

Collaboration

• Cooperates and shares information with team members and external partners.
• Listens actively and reliably completes own work.

Customer Focus

• Understands and responds to basic customer needs as directed.

Decision Making

• Listens to diverse perspectives and asks for guidance when uncertain.
• Begins to recognize when to say “no” or raise concerns.

Emotional Intelligence

• Recognizes own emotions in simple situations.
• Maintains professionalism and listens respectfully.
• Responds constructively to feedback.

• High school diploma or GED is required.

• 1 year of professional experience in water sampling, monitoring equipment calibration and maintenance, water distribution, water treatment, or water resources management is preferred, but is not required.
• Experience with operating a 4x4 vehicle in off-road conditions is preferred.

• Valid California Class C driver’s license and current automobile insurance are required.

• Operate a motor vehicle to visit various Agency sites, including sites that require off-roading
• Frequently work outside at infrastructure or construction sites, occasionally in cramped spaces, while standing and walking in operational areas, sometimes with uneven terrain and exposure to noise, dust, cold or hot weather
• Frequently work alone in remote locations
• Follow strict safety procedures and risk mitigation measures
• Occasionally may be required to interact with Agency customers or members of the public
• Occasional work in an office setting
• Operate standard office equipment, including computer, keyboard, mouse, monitor
• Read printed materials and digital text and images
• Frequently lift, carry, push or pull materials up to 30 pounds;
  Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull materials up to 60 pounds with the use of proper equipment

This position primarily requires work in the field at multiple locations within the Agency service area and includes some on-site work at the Agency Headquarters at 13846 Conference Center Drive, Apple Valley, CA.