Lead Hydrologist

Posting Close Date Applicants must submit their completed application by 07-29-2026 at 11:59 p.m. MST

The City of Tucson Water Department is seeking two Lead Hydrologists to lead teams of hydrologists, technicians, and interns in support of the Source Water Division’s water resource management and infrastructure programs. Each position supervises an assigned unit and works with the Chief Hydrologist and division staff to support well drilling, recharge and recovery activities, water resource planning, reporting, and regulatory compliance.

• One position will lead the Recharge & Special Projects Unit.

• One position will lead the Field Unit.

Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills are essential for success in these roles.

• Updated resume
• Cover letter addressing the required questions below

If you possess any of the preferred qualifications listed in the job posting and would like them to be considered during the recruitment process, the experience must be clearly described and verifiable in your resume and cover letter.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the education and work experience provided in their employment profile, resume, and cover letter. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in a written examination.

The Lead Hydrologist position at the City of Tucson’s Water Department is responsible for leading water resource programs and managing related infrastructure activities that support the delivery of high-quality potable and recycled water services. This position provides oversight for well drilling, recharge and recovery activities, water resource planning, technical reporting, and regulatory compliance functions while supporting the goals and objectives of Source Water and other Divisions.

Work is performed under the supervision of the Chief Hydrologist. This position exercises supervision over hydrology personnel. Manages water production and monitoring well projects, including well drilling, rehabilitation, infrastructure assessments, field investigations, and oversight of design, permitting, and construction activities. Administers the well drilling program, including Capital Improvement Program (CIP) planning, budgeting, project management, and coordination of related technical activities. Drives to various worksites to conduct inspections and audits.

Leads and supervises a team of professional hydrology staff responsible for implementing division projects and programs. Plans, assigns, and monitors workloads, timecards, reviews workloads, conducts performance evaluations, and supports employee development. Monitors groundwater aquifer conditions, including water levels and water quality, and oversees field investigations, annual groundwater level and elevation maps, and related technical reports. Manages surface water and reclaimed water recharge and recovery programs, including project planning, design, permitting, operations, maintenance, regulatory compliance, and reporting activities.

Administers recharge and recovery agreements and coordinates with partners, utility leadership, regulatory agencies, consultants, and stakeholders to support program objectives and successful project implementation. Provides technical oversight and quality assurance for hydrologic projects through data review, report preparation, field oversight, project coordination, engineering support, and review of project deliverables. Manages consultant and contractor agreements, project schedules, budgets, and deliverables while ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, permits, policies, and industry standards.

Performs all other duties and tasks as assigned.

Working Conditions:

Indoor and…