Water Conservation Specialist

About This Opportunity

The Water Resources Specialist plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s water conservation and community outreach efforts. This engaging, community-focused position combines program implementation fieldwork, and public education to make a direct impact on local sustainability and affordability goals. Key responsibilities include processing water rebate applications, conducting in-home water audits to help customers improve efficiency, assisting with classroom presentations, coordinating department events, and participating in local outreach activities. Through hands-on support and education, this role helps drive conservation success, strengthen community partnerships, and promote responsible water use.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Process and review water rebate applications for completeness, accuracy, and program compliance.
• Monitor and actively participate in the Water Conservation Team’s communication channel to assist with customer phone calls regarding Leak Notification Postcards, water usage concerns, and other conservation-related inquiries. 
• Communicate with customers regarding rebate eligibility, documentation requirements, and application status.

• Conduct residential water audits to assess water usage and identify efficiency improvement opportunities.
• Provide customers with clear, practical recommendations for water conservation and available incentive programs.
• Maintain accurate records of rebate processing, audit findings, and customer interactions in department databases.
• Assist in developing and delivering classroom presentations on water conservation and sustainability topics.
• Support planning, coordination, and execution of department-hosted events and workshops.
• Represent the department at local community events to promote conservation programs and engage the public.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding water conservation programs, rebates, and department initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal staff to support program reporting, tracking metrics, and continuous improvement efforts.

Ideal Candidate Profile: 

The ideal candidate brings a balance of vision and action, with a strong commitment to sustainable water practices and community impact demonstrated through the following skills and attributes: 

• Strong Communicator:  Able to translate technical information into clear, engaging messages for a variety of audiences. Skilled in public speaking, community outreach, and interdepartmental communication.
• Analytical Thinker:  Uses data to drive decisions, evaluate program success, and identify opportunities for improvement. Comfortable working with water usage metrics and performance reporting.
• Collaborative Team Player: Works effectively with diverse teams across city departments, regional agencies, and the public. Values input from others and builds strong professional relationships.
• Customer and Community-Oriented:  Listens actively, responds respectfully, and tailors outreach and services to meet the needs of Hillsboro’s diverse community. Culturally responsive and equity-minded.
• Creative Problem Solver:  Approaches challenges with innovation and flexibility. Looks for practical solutions that balance environmental goals with operational and community needs.
• Self-Starter with Strong Work Ethic: Takes initiative, manages time well, and follows through on commitments. Comfortable working independently and managing multiple priorities.
• Environmentally Committed: Demonstrates a genuine interest in sustainability, climate resilience, and responsible water management. Keeps up with best practices and emerging trends in the field.

Current / Upcoming Projects:

• Represent Hillsboro Water Events.
• Support community outreach and education efforts.
• Support conservation education programs, home water audits, and water efficiency rebate program.
• Support internal data requests and reporting needs.
• Support water quality sampling as needed.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Water Resources, Sustainability, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2–4 years of professional experience in water conservation, resource management, environmental outreach, or related fields.
• Experience with program implementation and evaluation.
• Demonstrated experience in public education, community engagement, or stakeholder collaboration.

Technical Skills:

• Knowledge of water conservation principles, techniques, and technologies in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
• Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting water use data and creating actionable reports.
• Familiarity with applicable local, state, and federal water conservation laws and policies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Comfortable delivering presentations, leading workshops, and engaging with the public.
• Excellent collaboration skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Salary : $67,801 - $89,221