Watershed Steward

About the Division Surface Water Management (SWM) Division of Snohomish County Conservation and Natural Resources provides a variety of programs and services for reducing road and property flooding and preserving and improving the health of Snohomish County's water resources and natural systems. Position Overview We are seeking a highly qualified candidate to fill a Watershed Steward position in the Floodplain Services Section. The role leads and manages the Noxious Weed Control Program, oversees up to five seasonal technicians from May to October, supports the Snohomish County Noxious Weed Control Board, and supervises storage, maintenance and use of noxious weed spray equipment. The position sometimes involves communicating with landowners and staffing Noxious Weed information booths. The role is housed at our native plant and noxious weed facility just outside of Monroe, WA. Key Responsibilities Develop, recommend and implement approved goals and policies for a defined watershed or program. Manage and coordinate major water quality, quantity and habitat issues involving significant planning, engineering, legal, financial, political and aquatic issues; consult with other county departments, divisions, and agencies and secure necessary approvals. Provide technical assistance regarding minor flooding, erosion control, marine resources and water quality matters to residents in a surface water management area. Plan, develop and implement water projects or activities within a specific watershed that integrate recommendations of county and regional planning efforts, and meet regulatory requirements. Compile and track all information and data relevant to watershed management; create databases of water quality, quantity, habitat and flooding data. Prepare, submit and manage various grant proposals; draft and monitor grant award contracts; coordinate and monitor work completed by grant-funded subcontractors; administer non-accounting aspects of minor grants. Serve as a staff representative on technical advisory committees, commissions and interest groups; coordinate formation and activities of these groups. Respond to conflicts and questions from the general public, government and private officials, media and interest groups; act as liaison. Recruit citizen volunteers and coordinate volunteer activities for protecting water quality and preventing drainage problems in a defined watershed. Give presentations to various groups in Snohomish County; attend meetings and participate or lead discussions. Arrange for, set up and/or participate in public meetings, hearings and council sessions; develop strategic approaches for presenting sensitive issues to diverse audiences; act as divisional representative; prepare or supervise the preparation of graphics, displays, brochures and slide/tape shows; prepare oral and written presentations including findings and reports; respond to questions and solicit input as appropriate. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences/studies, civil engineering, watershed or water resource management, forestry, geomorphology, agriculture, toxicology, wildlife biology, marine biology/ecology, oceanography, coastal geology, aquatic chemistry, or related field and three (3) years of experience directly related to Surface Water Management; or an equivalent combination of training and/or experience. Must pass job-related tests. Knowledge and Abilities Principles and practices of surface water management issues. Research and data collection techniques. Current literature, trends, regulations and developments in the surface water management field. Use of personal computers and related software, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Ability to work effectively with a cross-section of watershed residents, businesses, specific interest groups and agencies. Gather, evaluate and document technical data; read, interpret and apply legal documents. Independently prepare and implement comprehensive programs; apply technical data to practical in-field problems. Supervise technical staff involved in implementing surface water programs including contractors. Plan, organize and supervise the work of technical staff and volunteers; attend occasional evening meetings and weekend events. Physical Requirements Walk over uneven terrain and lift up to 30 lbs. Working Conditions The work is performed primarily in the field within a designated watershed and includes citizen contacts and site investigations. Additional office work is performed. The employee may be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays as necessary. EEO Statement Snohomish County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request. Benefits Retirement: Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Medical benefits: Choice of three comprehensive medical insurance plans with low deductibles. Sick leave: Accrue 8 hours per month. Vacation leave: Accrue 8 hours per month totaling 2.4 weeks in the first year; increase with tenure. Holiday pay: Eleven paid legal holidays and two floating holidays per year. Additional benefits: Wellness, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, long-term disability and more. Deferred compensation: County match up to 1% of base salary. Pay increases: Step increases each year. Cost of living adjustment: Annual COLA. Flexible work schedules, career development training. Teleworking Options Hybrid remote work with at least one in-office day per week; full-time office option available. Employees receive a County-issued laptop and must maintain a reliable home workspace. Location Native plant and noxious weed facility outside Monroe, WA. Application Kindly submit your application through the official County portal. A WA State applicator license with Aquatic and ROW endorsements is required or must be obtained within the first six months of employment. Job offers are contingent on successful completion of reference and background checks. Snohomish County will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. J-18808-Ljbffr