Water Conservation Specialist

Overview

Job Description - Water Conservation Specialist 1(35300) ).

Position title:

Water Conservation Specialist 1(35300) - ).

DNRC Water Resources Division seeks multiple Water Conservation Specialist 1 positions across Montana to champion water resource management and ensure consistent stewardship of Montana's water rights. If you are detail-driven and enjoy turning complex data into clear findings with field visit opportunities, this role offers a chance to influence Montana's water management and protection.

• Lead water right investigation and analysis: serve 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, reviewing 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, water management information, 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.

• Minimum qualifications:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management or natural sciences, plus at least one year of experience with water resources management. Coursework in water resources, physical or natural sciences, engineering, public speaking, and writing is desirable.
• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  
  Montana water law, interstate and reserved water compacts, rules, policies, procedures, and government operations; water resource management theories; field investigation methodologies; negotiation and conflict resolution; local water availability and measurement techniques; public landownership records; GIS and databases; ability to communicate clearly and concisely; travel required.

Only online submissions are accepted. Applicants must attach both a cover letter and resume at the time of application. Failure to attach required documents will result in the application being considered incomplete. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered. When attaching documents, mark each as Relevant to ensure they are viewable. Cover Letter:
Describe how your knowledge, skills, and abilities will make you successful in this role. Resume:
Include all work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position.

Salary: $61,464.00 per year. Telework eligibility:
Not Telework Eligible. Benefits: health, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts; generous paid leave; retirement plan; access to free employee medical clinics and telehealth; relocation assistance may be available; career progression and professional development; state employee discounts; up to 15 days of military leave with pay.

• Number of Openings: 1
• Employee Status:
  Regular
• Schedule:
  
  Full-Time
• Job Type: Standard
• Shift: Day
• Travel:
  Yes, up to 5% of the time
• Primary
  
  Location:
  
  Missoula, Montana
• Agency:
  Department of Natural Resources & Conservation
• Posting Date:
  Feb 3, 2026
• Closing Date:
  Feb 20, 2026
• Required Application Materials:
  Cover Letter, Resume

Contact:
Tracey Thennis | Tracey.

Thennis2 |

The State of Montana is an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations in the application or hiring process available upon request.