Full job description
Job Overview:
The Pennsylvania Rural Water Association (PRWA) is seeking a Source Water Protection Specialist to join our statewide Source Water Protection Team. This role supports public drinking water systems across Pennsylvania in developing and implementing comprehensive plans that protect the quality and security of their surface water and groundwater sources.
The specialist will work directly with water system personnel, state agencies, and technical partners to identify risks, develop management strategies, and build collaborative relationships to assist in the protection, preservation, and improvement of water source quality.
Responsibilities:
- Support public water systems in developing and implementing Source Water Protection (SWP) Plans, including onboarding new systems into the program.
- Maintain accurate project records, schedules, and communications
- Serve as a liaison between water systems, PA DEP staff, and the DEP‑contracted technical service provider (a hydrogeology firm conducting source water assessments and reports).
- Assist in collecting background information from water systems such as watershed characteristics, wellfield data, land use, and potential contaminant sources.
- Provide onsite technical assistance to operators, managers, and board members throughout the SWP planning process.
- Facilitate collaboration with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders — including agricultural partners, conservation districts, emergency management, municipal officials, and non‑profit organizations.
- Assist water systems in identifying and implementing management strategies, which may include:
- Agricultural BMPs
- Stormwater BMPs
- Public education and outreach
- Emergency preparedness
- Land use planning and policy
- Additional strategies tailored to local risks
Preferred Experience & Qualifications:
Working knowledge of water utility operations is a high preference, including watersheds, groundwater, wells, distribution systems, treatment processes, and drinking water regulations.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and professional certifications (e.g., water/wastewater operator licensure).
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain professional relationships with diverse partners.
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
- Experience with technical writing or reporting (preferred)
- Experience with ArcGIS or similar GIS platforms (preferred).
- Background in agriculture or familiarity with agricultural practices (beneficial)
Additional Job Requirements:
· A valid driver’s license
· Participate in hosting a week-long Annual Conference in State College
· Professional demeanor and appearance
· Maintain a personal work schedule while coordinating with co-workers and other professional acquaintances
· Team-oriented employee
· Regular daytime travel and occasional overnight stays
· Maintain a home office
Compensation:
· Competitive pay commensurate with experience and responsibilities
· Company work vehicle, cell phone, laptop, internet reimbursement, and clothing stipend
· Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
· 401(k) plan with company match
· Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
· Employee oriented company that values retention and maintains a respectful, supportive, and positive workplace
· Hybrid-remote work structure with some schedule flexibility
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $55,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: Remote
