Water Permitting Specialist

Agency: Oklahoma Water Resources Board

About the role

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board is a state agency responsible for overseeing the complex mission of managing, monitoring, planning for and financing the state's water resources and infrastructure towards reliable future supplies that support strong communities, commerce, and the environment. The agency is seeking a full-time Water Permitting Specialist to join our team in delivering exceptional services and expertise to Oklahomans.

Division: Water Rights Administration
Section: Water Rights Permitting
Location of Work: 3800 Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Trial Period: 12 months
Travel: Some travel is required for training and conference attendance.

Responsibilities

• Extensively utilize database, ArcGIS, and workflow software to manage a portfolio of water permit applications, research water issues, generate maps, and update GIS shape files.
• Evaluate and process water rights applications for water users in the state.
• Analyze data and documentation, work with applicants, and prepare correspondence to process permit applications.
• Verify annual water use reports, assist permit holders with questions, prepare statistical summaries, and educate the public regarding water use and availability.
• Assist in conducting hydrologic field investigations, report preparation, and resolution of water use interference situations in times of drought.
• Assist in responding to records requests and preparing for and presenting educational training sessions.
• Conduct technical site investigations and collect data to verify water rights applications, well construction, completion of works, dam maintenance, etc.
• Occasional onsite compliance and enforcement investigations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 24 semester hours in a physical, natural, or biological science, chemistry, geology, hydrology, physical geography, epidemiology, environmental science, environmental health, or civil, agricultural, environmental, geological, or chemical engineering.
• For Level II: One (1) year of professional experience in one of the areas listed or a master’s degree in a qualifying area.

Skills

• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of environmental quality and sanitation, biological, microbiological, radiological, and chemical analysis, environmental problems, sample collection, laboratory methodologies, complaint investigations, survey and inspection of environmental and sanitary conditions, consumer protection, epidemiology, water and air quality regulations, hydrological and geological survey methods, and principles of ground and surface water geology and hydrology.
• Ability to operate and maintain monitoring and detection equipment, establish and maintain professional working relationships, write technical reports, collect samples, apply research methodologies, read and interpret plans and specifications, and communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Experience with GPS equipment and ArcGIS is preferred but not required.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

• Generous Benefit Allowance: Up to $21,942 annually to help cover insurance premiums for employees and their families.
• Comprehensive Insurance Plans: A variety of options with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Retirement Savings Plans:
  • Pathfinder Defined Contribution Plan: Employer matches 6% of a minimum 4.5% employee contribution (up to 7% if the employee contributes 7%).
  • OPERS Defined Benefit Plan: Available for reenrollment to employees enrolled prior to November 1, 2015.
• Paid Leave:
  • 15 days annually during the first 1–5 years of service.
  • 18 days annually for 5–10 years of service.
  • 20 days annually for 10–20 years of service.
  • 25 days annually for over 20 years of service.
• Sick Leave: Accrued at 15 days per year.
• Holidays: Eleven paid holidays annually.
• Employee Discounts: Special rates with various vendors and companies.
• Longevity Payment: Monetary rewards beginning at two years of service to recognize dedicated tenure.
• Thrive: Empowering Oklahoma State employees to improve and enhance their well-being through accessible resources, supportive programs, and opportunities that promote physical and mental health.

Pay

• Water Permitting Specialist (R20A) Annual Salary: $52,258
• Water Permitting Specialist (R20B) Annual Salary: $56,074

Schedule

Full-time, regular position.