Senior Environmental Specialist - Watershed Protection

The County of Riverside’s Flood Control and Water Conservation District is recruiting for a Senior Environmental Specialist for their Watershed Protection Division in Riverside, CA.

The Senior Environmental Specialist will plan, organize, and review the work of a unit engaged in complex environmental regulatory compliance programs and studies responsible for monitoring, managing, protecting and enhancing the quality of water resources within the District's service area. The incumbent will be responsible for, but not limited to, evaluating regulatory program needs, overseeing budget requests, serving as a program leader for the department in the consultation with County agencies/departments, cities, state and federal agencies, and private industry to monitor stormwater regulatory compliance.

Watershed Protection:
Positions assigned to the Watershed Protection Division ensure the District’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations governing the construction, operation and maintenance of stormwater management infrastructure. Incumbents apply technical expertise related to the Clean Water Act Section 402, the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, and related state and federal water quality regulations. Incumbents in this track directly support three Areawide Phase I Municipal National Pollution Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) Stormwater Programs, develop and implement regional compliance strategies, conduct water quality monitoring and research and support stakeholder engagement efforts.

The most competitive candidates will possess strong knowledge of regulatory requirements for evaluating municipal compliance for surface water quality protection in California with an emphasis for NPDES Stormwater permits and professional level experience in full scope consultancy for contract agreements for the development of programs and projects protective of water resources. Candidates with project management experience within a municipal water resource for water quality and conservation projects are highly encouraged to apply.

Meet the Team!
The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District provides for the control and conservation of flood and storm waters and for the protection of watercourses, watersheds, public highways, life and property from damage within its boundaries.jfc:19409100

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES

WATERSHED PROTECTION
• Direct the analysis and application of technical knowledge of state and federal environmental laws, regulations and stormwater management principles to support the construction, operation and maintenance of municipal storm drain infrastructure.

• Oversee the evaluation of regulatory requirements and initiatives to formulate compliance strategies that protect Riverside County’s streams, creeks, lakes, and rivers.

• Supervise the preparation and review of NPDES technical studies, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and alignment with watershed protection objectives.

• Represent the District at technical advisory committees, stakeholder meetings, water quality task forces, and public forums, offering subject matter expertise and facilitating discussions.

• Drive rulemaking processes and negotiations for NPDES permit adoption and Basin Plan updates.