What are the responsibilities and job description for the Water Quality Specialist position at WINE TO WATER?
Western North Carolina - Helene Recovery
Water Quality Specialist
Reports To: Program Manager
Position: 1099 Contract- Temporary (6 months with potential to extend)
Location: Based in Watauga or Buncombe County, NC
OUR MISSION: Wine To Water (WTW) is committed to supporting life and dignity of all through the power of clean water.
CORE VALUES: Integrity, Excellence, Courageous Communication, Extreme Ownership, and Entrepreneurship.
Job Summary
The Water Quality Specialist will play a critical role in supporting WTW’s strategic mission of the Helene Recovery and Resiliency programming. This role will work across communities in western North Carolina to ensure access to and confidence in clean, safe drinking water in the aftermath of Helene. The Specialist will conduct water quality testing and implement appropriate water filtration systems at the household level and possibly at a commercial level supporting small businesses. The specialist will also train community members on water quality testing and filter implementation as a means of empowering the local community and increasing the scope of the Water Quality Testing and Filter Implementation Program. The focus will be on communities most vulnerable to water access and quality issues, providing essential support to those in need.
Key Responsibilities
Water Quality Testing: Test and monitor water sources and household samples throughout the region to identify contaminants and assess water safety at the source of testing and identify trends in water quality. Report findings and options once water quality testing has been assessed.
Filtration System Recommendations: Based on water quality test results, determine appropriate filtration solutions for households and small businesses, customizing systems to meet specific community needs if possible.
Filtration System Installation: If appropriate filtration solution is in WTW’s water technology portfolio, lead the installation and implementation of water filtration systems to ensure effective and sustainable access to potable water.
Community Engagement: Work closely with local communities, identifying areas most affected by water access issues and establishing priority areas for intervention.
Organizational Representation: Act as an ambassador for Wine To Water while engaging directly with community members building trust through the demonstration of the organization’s core values.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Track and regularly report testing, findings, and feedback to help build adaptable implementation strategies.
Adaptability to Changing Needs: Remain flexible and responsive to evolving community needs, regulatory changes, and emerging water quality challenges, adjusting responsibilities as needed to meet new demands.
Coordination: Work externally with local testing agencies to deliver samples and receive results and internally with the program team to help build internal testing capacities.
Qualifications
Technical Expertise: Knowledge of basic water technology, including water quality testing methods, filtration systems, and treatment processes.
Plumbing Skills: Experience with basic plumbing, installation, and maintenance of water filtration systems.
Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze water quality data, troubleshoot issues, and identify effective, tailored solutions for diverse water filtration needs.
Community Awareness: Sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable communities, with a focus on those at higher risk of inadequate water access.
Flexibility & Adaptability: Ability to adjust to changing responsibilities and community priorities as the water quality landscape evolves.
Communication Skills: Strong communication skills for interacting with community members, local officials, and team members.
Preferred: Background in environmental science, engineering, or public health related to water safety and quality.
Why Join Us?
At Wine To Water, we are dedicated to creating confidence in and access to safe drinking water. Be an integral part of sustainable change in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene by providing safe drinking water and empowering residents through education and trust-building. As a Community Engagement Specialist, you will have the opportunity to make a direct impact on the health and well-being of communities, contributing to a brighter, healthier future for all.
