What are the responsibilities and job description for the WATERSHED MANAGEMENT - WATERSHED MANAGER position at Columbia Association?
WATERSHED MANAGER
Summary:
Reports to the Sustainability Manager with overall responsibility for implementing the Watershed Management Plan and for developing and administering a watershed management program for the community of Columbia, MD. This position is also responsible for supporting water quality monitoring, sediment management in the main lakes and resident engagement programming, while also assisting other divisions and departments within CA on watershed policy compliance. Broad advisory support for managing stormwater runoff, the design and construction of bioretention facilities, pond rehabilitation, and stream ecology monitoring. Position is also responsible for review, analysis, recommendations and testimony on State and local legislation affecting watershed issues in Columbia and CA.
Essential functions:
Must have a Maryland Class C license and the ability to comply with Columbia Association’s driving requirements
Able to visually inspect (with or without corrective lenses) conditions of grounds, lakes, streams, ponds and other watershed areas
Must have basic practical understanding of construction standards
Ability to conduct field (hands-on) sampling/assessment/surveying
Must have basic knowledge and understanding of watershed characteristics, identify potential solutions and facilitate project implementation.
Possess basic knowledge and understanding of county and state regulations, policies and requirements
Must have basic knowledge and understanding of best management practices that will lead to a more environmentally sustainable department
Works outside under any kind of weather conditions
Able to purchase major items, equipment, materials and consulting services at reasonable cost and within CA purchasing guidelines
Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing to senior team leaders and community members
Ability to develop and assist in the management of capital and operating budgets, controlling expenditures in accordance with the approved budget
Additional responsibilities:
Develop and implement an annual watershed management program
Develop concept plans and cost estimates for future implementation
Develop bid documents and issue RFP’S and IFB’s
Navigate and dialog with permitting agencies
Manage construction/implementation of stormwater best management practices
Prioritize projects that are identified throughout the year
Various water quality enhancements at ponds and lakes (floating islands, shoreline improvements)
Administer and implement various outreach and assistance programs
Set benchmarks and measure success of watershed management through water quality monitoring and resident behavior assessment:
Establish water quality monitoring sites and protocols
Initiate/conduct monitoring in the watersheds, specifically aimed toward lakes, ponds, streams
Resident and property owners’ behavior (through surveys)
Assist other divisions and departments within CA on watershed policy compliance including facility operation practices and capital improvement projects
Routinely research and review grant availability and qualifications for funding to CA in a variety of areas related to comprehensive watershed issues; including but not limited to:
Federal, state and local grants to fund projects and outreach programs, such as:
NFWF
DNR
MDE
CBT
Other
Prepare/oversee grant applications and coordinate with partners in the process
Resident outreach, assistance and education (manage, coordinate, and/or assist Communications and Marketing staff, Open Space Management staff, and watershed partners).
Programs such as:
Events
Columbia-wide stream monitoring and clean-up projects
Reforestation (community volunteers and internal operations)
Watershed Management Practices workshops and seminars for residential and commercial properties
Community events
Community Education
Neighborhood Source Assessments
Content of the Watershed Website
Watershed Educational Material
Village Newsletter Materials
Review and analyze State and local legislation related to watershed management issues in Columbia
Coordinate the analysis of pending legislation with other units within CA
Write position recommendations for review by Senior staff and Board of Directors
Write and present testimony at both State and Local level related to pending legislation affecting watershed issues in Columbia and CA
Oversee the Sediment Management Plan for the main lakes in Columbia.
Work within the Department to develop RFP’s related to sediment management in the lakes
Manage consultants working on bathymetry, sedimentation estimates, updates of the schedule of activities and updates of the Sediment Management Plan
Minimum Qualifications:
10-15 years of professional experience in aquatic ecology, watershed management, stormwater management, and/or water quality
Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to effectively deal with the public and provide customer service
Maryland driver's license (Class C)
Preferred Qualifications and Education:
Bachelor’s degree in physical or biological science. Masters preferred in related field.
Previous in-field (hands-on) sampling/assessment/surveying experience
Familiarity with state regulations, policies and requirements
Documented experience in multi-departmental operations
Physical demands:
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and climb without any difficulty for extended periods of time.
Lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted for short periods of time
Must be able to work outside under any kind of weather conditions
The salary range for this position is $100K to $130K. The actual salary offered will depend on the overall qualifications of the individual applicant for the position and the budgeted amount for the role. CA offers a positive, fun work environment and a generous benefits package. Full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), a free Fit & Play membership, Wellness benefits w/perks and paid leave.
Salary : $100,000 - $130,000