Water Quality Specialist

About the Organization Join the team at Rivanna Authorities for a valuable career in public service. We are guided by our Mission & Values. We constantly strive to improve essential services in the County of Albemarle and the City of Charlottesville.

Rivanna Authorities consists of two entities:
Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA). Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) is an independent public agency and wholesale water provider. We provide wholesale water supply, water treatment, and wastewater interception and treatment for the City & Albemarle County. Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA) provides recycling, solid waste, and household hazardous waste disposal services to City & Albemarle County residents from our facilities at Ivy Solid Waste & Recycling, McIntire Recycling, and the Paper Sort Facility on Meade Avenue.

Mission:
Our knowledgeable and professional team serves the Charlottesville, Albemarle, and UVA community by providing high-quality water and wastewater treatment, refuse, and recycling services in a financially responsible and sustainable manner.

Vision:
To serve the community as a recognized leader in environmental stewardship by providing exceptional water and solid waste services.

Values:
The Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority are committed to the following values:
Integrity, Teamwork, Respect, & Quality

Coordinates and performs water quality monitoring activities to support the Rivanna Authorities' drinking water treatment, distribution, reservoir, and watershed management programs. Responsibilities include collecting and analyzing water quality samples, maintaining monitoring equipment, managing data, supporting regulatory compliance, and assisting with source water protection, reservoir management, and emergency response activities. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Water Resources Coordinator, with technical guidance and coordination provided by the Water Department Manager.

• Collect water quality samples from reservoirs, treatment facilities, distribution systems, streams, rivers, storage tanks, pump stations, hydrants, and designated sampling locations.
• Perform field and laboratory testing using scientific instruments and equipment.
• Conduct microscopic algae identification and counting.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot water quality monitoring equipment, including YSI analytical sondes.
• Maintain sampling equipment, supplies, and inventory.

• Maintain accurate field records and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Compile, analyze, trend, and report water quality monitoring data.
• Prepare sampling schedules and coordinate sampling activities with Water, Laboratory, and Water Resources staff.

• Conduct inspections of reservoirs, dams, watersheds, water storage tanks, and pump stations.
• Assist with implementation of the Authority's reservoir management, source water protection, and vulnerability assessment programs.
• Implement reservoir algaecide application programs in accordance with regulatory requirements and Authority procedures.

• Assist in preparing regulatory reports and permit applications.
• Ensure sampling and monitoring activities comply with federal and state drinking water regulations.
• Assist with environmental compliance documentation as assigned.

• Assist with training and oversight of seasonal interns as assigned.
• Support Water, Laboratory, and Water Resources staff with technical projects.
• Assist in staffing and coverage of Water Treatment Plants in emergency situations at the need of the Authority.
• Maintain effective working relationships with employees, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.
• Provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
• Follow Authority safety policies and procedures.
• Perform duties in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Location:

South Rivanna Water Treatment Plant

Shift: Days

Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time

EOE Statement Equal Employment Opportunity has been, and will continue to be, a fundamental principle at the Rivanna Authorities, where employment is based upon personal capabilities, and qualifications without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth,…