Water Optimization Planner

Positions and Details

• 2 positions: 1 in Taylorsville, 1 in Tremonton
• Full‑time
• Salary: $24.00 – $26.00 per hour
• In‑office
• Recruiter:
  Christa Rowland | crowlan | 801‑538‑4826
• Final date to receive applications: 6‑7‑26

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is seeking a Water Optimization Technician to help preserve, improve, and sustain Utah agriculture for future generations. This is a career service exempt, at‑will position focused on the implementation and monitoring of water conservation initiatives. The successful candidate will work closely with the agricultural community to optimize water usage through technical assistance and project management.

• Provide technical assistance to irrigators, irrigation companies, water conservancy districts, and local conservation districts to plan and implement water optimization projects.
• Perform outreach and education regarding state and federal water conservation programs.
• Develop relationships with landowners, partners, and other agencies to promote conservation efforts.
• Inspect water optimization projects before, during, and after implementation to ensure compliance.
• Monitor projects and gather data to create required reports.
• Process project payments, compile and review payment documents, certify installed practices, and prepare payment packets.
• Provide administrative support to the Utah Conservation Commission and assist with grant, contract, and agreement reviews.

• Working knowledge of irrigation methods and practices, water quality rules, and water rights regulations.
• Good verbal and written communication skills; ability to build trust with producers and landowners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and GIS programs.
• A valid driver’s license to operate motor vehicles for site visits and data collection.

• Background or experience in agriculture.
• Full understanding and experience of the conservation planning process.
• Education in agronomy, soil science, horticulture, agricultural engineering, or a related natural resource field (degree or pursuing).
• Local expertise and planning experience.

• Physical effort: may require standing or walking over rough, rocky terrain; frequent bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, and reaching.
• Travel: may involve overnight travel and regular site visits to collect data.
• Safety: risks include working around operating machinery or hazardous chemicals; requires special safety precautions.

One position in Taylorsville, one position in Tremonton.

No

No

TL – up to two years

• Job stability – security and reliability within a well‑established organization.
• Career growth – valuable skills and leadership opportunities.
• Meaningful work – contribution to community and organizational goals.
• Supportive work environment – team values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957‑9390.