Water Conservation Specialist

Overview

Water Conservation Specialist 1 – DNRC Water Resources Division. Lead water right investigation and analysis, support the water court and public understanding, and shape water management across Montana. This position offers opportunities for field visits, data-driven findings, and meaningful impact on Montana’s water resources. Live in Helena, Montana.

• Lead water right investigation and analysis as the Division's technical expert in evaluating water rights claims, analyzing water availability, and conducting comprehensive water use assessments across regional offices and programs.
• Evaluate the accuracy of claims to historical water use following Supreme Court rules; review technical information in proposed and final orders.
• Conduct scientific field examinations, measure flow rates and volumes, and provide expert testimony in Water Court hearings and contested-case proceedings.
• Analyze water use statements, permits, and records using GIS mapping, aerial photographs, and field investigations to identify appropriation issues.
• Synthesize field data and research findings into clear reports and presentations for the Water Court, the public, and agency partners.
• Review land title records, county documents, and water right records to process applications while ensuring compliance with state law and department policy.
• Provide technical and investigative assistance to department attorneys and Water Court staff on contested water rights issues.
• Gather and analyze facts related to water disputes, suggest alternatives for resolution, and maintain an unbiased position in addressing objections and conflicts.
• Research and compile water use information, well logs, and land ownership records to create GIS maps and detailed reports for the public, water users, attorneys, and the Water Court.
• Assist with processing new water right applications, verification forms, splits, severs, ownership updates and temporary lease and change exception filings using statewide water databases and adhering to relevant statutes, rules and policies.
• Participate in training, conferences, and professional development to strengthen expertise in water law, water measurement, and conflict resolution.
• Provide public assistance and apply dispute resolution techniques to analyze facts and laws, suggest alternatives, and help resolve water use conflicts and objections while remaining impartial.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and special projects, represent the Department to local groups, and contribute to planning, budgeting, and other regional office operational activities as assigned.

• Alternative combinations of the education and experience listed below will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Bachelor's degree in natural resource management or natural sciences, plus a minimum of one year of experience with water resources management.
• Coursework in water resources, physical or natural sciences, engineering, public speaking, and writing is desirable.

Knowledge: Montana water law, relevant interstate and reserved water compacts, rules, policies, procedures, and government operations. Water resource management theories and field investigation methodologies; negotiation and conflict resolution. Local water availability, water use practices, measurement techniques, and irrigation methods. Public landownership records, court decrees and orders, and geological formations affecting water availability. Government administrative processes.

Skills: PC-based software and databases; reading and interpreting land descriptions; organizing and prioritizing multiple duties; GIS applications and technical software.

Ability: Establish and maintain effective working relationships; analyze complex issues and make sound judgments; stay organized, self-motivated, and project-focused; communicate clearly in writing and verbally; address problems promptly; convey complex laws and technical information to the public.

• Office-based work with extensive computer, data, and document tasks; some travel to regional offices, community meetings, field investigations, and…