Full job description
RHODE ISLAND RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION
70 Romano Vineyard Way | North Kingstown, RI 02852
401-868-1431
JOB DESCRIPTION
Title: Source Water Specialist
Reports to: Executive Director / Deputy Director
Primary Function
The purpose of this position is to support the protection and long-term sustainability of Rhode Island’s drinking water resources
through source water assessment, protection planning, technical assistance, and collaboration with public water systems,
municipalities, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders. The Source Water Specialist will assist communities in identifying
potential risks to drinking water sources and developing strategies to protect the quality and quantity of water resources.
Essential Functions
1. Conduct assessments of existing and potential drinking water sources, including surface water and groundwater, to identify
potential risks and opportunities for protection.
2. Assist in developing and implementing source water protection plans to safeguard the quality and quantity of drinking water
resources.
3. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of source water protection strategies and recommend improvements as appropriate.
4. Collaborate with regulatory agencies, municipalities, public water systems, and other stakeholders to support source water
protection efforts and applicable environmental requirements.
5. Research emerging trends, technologies, and best practices related to source water protection and water resource management.
6. Prepare technical reports, presentations, educational materials, and other documents related to source water protection.
7. Assist with the development of grant proposals, funding applications, and other initiatives that support source water protection and
water resource sustainability.
8. Provide technical assistance and educational support to water systems and communities regarding source water protection
practices.
9. Maintain effective working relationships with state and federal agencies, municipalities, water system personnel, and other
industry partners.
10. Accurately complete and submit required program documentation, reports, and other deliverables in a timely manner.
Education/Experience
- Associate degree in natural sciences or a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or a related field preferred.
- Relevant experience in source water protection, environmental science, water resources, or a related field preferred. Recent
graduates with relevant education are encouraged to apply.
- Understanding of hydrogeology, water quality, and environmental regulations preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with data analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or watershed analysis preferred.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of water resource management principles, source water protection practices, and environmental conservation.
- Familiarity with local, state, and federal governmental processes and environmental regulatory requirements.
- Knowledge of water availability, water use practices, and water resource assessment methods.
- Experience with GIS analysis, watershed modeling, field investigations, or related technical applications.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with public water systems, municipalities, government agencies, and
other stakeholders.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to use a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to lift 25 pounds.
- Ability to travel regularly throughout Rhode Island as required by program responsibilities.
- Requires two out-of-state trips annually for professional development training.
- Work environment includes a general office setting and potential outdoor fieldwork in varying weather conditions.
External Relationships
The position will have frequent contact with public water system personnel, municipal officials, state and federal agency
representatives, elected officials, industry professionals, and technical organizations.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Rhode Island Rural Water Association values the diverse perspectives and experiences that a diverse workforce brings to our
organization. RIRWA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to attracting and retaining a talented and inclusive workforce.
Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship,
sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We encourage all
qualified individuals to apply and will provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should submit a resume to:
jfolco@rirwa.org
myoung@rirwa.org
Conflict of Interest
Association employees shall abide by the Conflict of Interest provisions as outlined in the RIRWA Personnel Policies Handbook.
Association employees, per RIRWA’s sub-award of the NRWA Contract, may not directly or indirectly conduct business with or
perform services independent of the Association or otherwise act in a manner that may present a conflict of interest.
Pay: $50,000.00 – $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
