LTE Water Use Program and Policy Analyst Advanced; Madison

LTE Water Use Program and Policy Analyst Advanced (Madison)

We are dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations; DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

The Wisconsin DNR is hiring an LTE (Limited Term Employee) Water Use Program and Policy Analyst Advanced at our offices, in Madison, WI.

This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies.

To see all opportunities currently available at DNR, follow this link: DNR (wisc.jobs) .

This position leads advanced program and policy analysis for Wisconsin’s statewide water use program, with a primary focus on drought management planning, water conservation and efficiency strategies, and water use analytics and trend analysis across multiple sectors. The role is responsible for integrating data analysis, policy development, and stakeholder coordination to address complex water resource challenges affecting the state and the Great Lakes region.

The incumbent serves as a subject matter expert on water use policy, interpreting and applying state and federal regulations, evaluating emerging water use demands, and recommending program and policy changes to ensure sustainable water management. This position independently conducts full-cycle policy analysis—from defining water resource issues and designing analytical approaches to developing actionable recommendations that influence program direction and implementation. The position regularly collaborates with internal programs, external partners, and regional entities to align policy, share data, and address cross-jurisdictional water use issues.

70% - Water Use Policy Development, Program Oversight, and Coordination

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of statewide water use policies and programs, including drought management planning and water conservation and efficiency initiatives.
• Develop and maintain the statewide drought management plan, incorporating emerging risks, stakeholder input, and measurable performance standards.
• Identify and evaluate emerging water use trends and sectors, including potential impacts on water resources and regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinate and collaborate with internal department programs, regional and interstate partners (including Great Lakes entities), and external stakeholders to ensure alignment of program goals and policy implementation.
• Monitor, analyze, and interpret legislative and regulatory developments across multiple jurisdictions; assess impacts and recommend program or policy modifications.
• Planning and promoting water efficiency programs for residential, landscape, and commercial customers.

30% – Program Evaluation, Data Analysis, and Reporting

• Design and implement quality assurance and quality control processes to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness of statewide water use data
• Oversee and support the review of water use reports, registrations, and permit applications, ensuring consistency with program policies and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze water use trends over time and across geographic regions.
• Query and analyze water withdrawal data
• Respond to inquiries via phone and email, providing property owners with guidance on reporting requirements, registration processes, and fee collection.

This position pays between $27.68 - $30.00 per hour and is in the Program and Policy Analyst Advanced classification in pay schedule and range 07-03. Compensation will be set in accordance with the State Compensation Plan.

This is a Limited Term Employment (LTE) position and will not automatically lead to permanent state employment or be entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees.

• Offer a great opportunity to gain experience and learn about careers at the WI Department of Natural Resources.
• Provide opportunities for individuals to enhance their resumes with skills learned on the job.
• May accommodate flexibility for part-time or full-time work…