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Water Conservation Specialist

City of Hillsboro, Hillsboro, OR, United States


About This Opportunity

The Water Resources Specialist plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s water conservation and community outreach efforts. This community-focused position combines program implementation fieldwork and public education to impact 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.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Process and review water rebate applications for completeness, accuracy, and program compliance.
Monitor and 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.

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