Water Resources Specialist Job Apple Valley area,Minnesota USA,Government

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.

Stormwater Coordination:
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.

Monitor Water Quality:
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.

Project Review:
Assists in the review of land use 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.

Education and Outreach:
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.

Volunteer Management:
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.

Natural Resources:
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.

Project Management:
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.

Wildlife Management:
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.

Minimum 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…