Principal Resources Specialist (Environmental Services)

Inland Empire Utilities Agency
$147,720.30 - $179,981.36 Annually
medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, flexible benefit account, vacation time, paid holidays, sick time, retirement plan, pension
United States, California, Chino
6075 Kimball Avenue (Show on map)
Apr 16, 2025
THE POSITION: THE OPPORTUNITY Are you interested in a fulfilling career protecting the environment, supporting wastewater planning and wastewater regulatory programs for the local community? The Inland Empire Utilities Agency is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and analytical leader to serve as its next Principal Resources Specialist within the Planning and Resources Department, Environmental Services Unit. This role directs staff in overseeing regulatory compliance for industrial pretreatment programs, including inspection, monitoring, enforcement of wastewater discharge permits, and responding to audits by regulatory agencies. The position is responsible for negotiating wastewater disposal and capacity rights agreements, ensuring proper billing for non-reclaimable systems and the Brine Line, and maintaining strong relationships with customer agencies, industrial facilities, and regulators. It also oversees the preparation of mandated reports, development of local limits, and remediation of non-compliance events, while leading complex water and wastewater projects such as reviewing and processing pretreatment and source control permitting, developing long term wastewater planning documents, preparing feasibility studies, identifying future facilities/infrastructure projects, conducting/supporting utility rate and capacity fee studies, collection of water/wastewater fees, coordinating work with other Agency departments/external consultants/contractors/entities, reviewing detailed reports, conducting wastewater flow/loading and forecasting studies, establishing and evaluating connection fee guidelines, and leading a collaborative team in providing recommendations for the Agency. The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) serves approximately 935,000 residents in western San Bernardino County and is proud of our reputation of promoting greater water supply reliability through significant contributions to a diverse regional water supply portfolio, including water from stormwater capture, recycling and reuse, and imported water supplies. The Agency continues to be fully committed to ensuring long-term success for the region by leading the way in water resource management, environmental sustainability, and providing essential sanitation services in a regionally planned and cost-effective manner while safeguarding public health and promoting economic development. Here are a few ways the Inland Empire Utilities Agency is committed to helping you feel your best, work your best, and live your best while working with us: A 4-day work week with remote hybrid work schedules for some positions A pension through California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) Generous employer monthly health benefit allowances to go towards the cost of medical, dental, and vision insurance Competitive vacation, floating holiday, sick time in addition to 12 agency paid holidays Education Reimbursement up to $5,250 per fiscal year Basic life insurance coverage provided Wellness Stipend of $500 per fiscal year 457b Deferred Compensation Contribution Interest free loan for a computer purchase up to $3,000 This position is open until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 11:59 PM on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Applicants that submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline. There is one (1) vacancy in the Planning & Resources Department, Environmental Services Unit. This recruitment is being conducted to fill one (1) vacancy and will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list. Salary Range: UN 187 FLSA: Exempt Probationary Period: At-Will Under direction, plans, organizes, manages, and participates in the development, implementation, and monitoring of programs and activities of the Agency's Planning and Resources Department; manages, supervises, and reviews the work of professional and support staff; serves as a subject matter expert for the Agency's water resource programs, policies and initiatives, pretreatment and source control activities, or federal, state and local environmental rules, regulations, and guidelines, where applicable; develops, recommends, and implements policies and procedures; functions as project manager, overseeing scientific studies, projects, and regional programs; represents the Agency and strategically coordinates and collaborates with various customer agencies, partner agencies, regulatory agencies, or other local resource agencies as applicable; provides information and updates to Agency Management, the Board of Directors, and regulators; and performs related duties as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: A Principal Resources Specialist is responsible for managing a team of professionals engaged in implementing the Agency's programs regarding either water resources, pretreatment and source control, environmental compliance and permitting, or sustainability services. Incumbents are responsible for planning, coordinating and directing various tasks, functions, and programs within their areas of responsibility. The work of this class is broad in scope or project focused that requires a significant degree of independence and application of professional experience and judgment on issues which are complex, interpretive, and can have Agency wide impact. The work of this class involves significant accountability and independent decision-making responsibilities in interpreting information and presenting sound proposals and recommendations to external agencies, Agency Management, the Board of Directors, and regulators. Employees in this class typically report to either the Manager of Compliance and Sustainability, Manager of Environmental Services, or Manager of Water Resources in the Planning and Resources Department and manage the work of professional and technical staff in their assigned area of responsibility. A Principal Resources Specialist is distinguished from the unit managers within the Planning and Resources Department in that an incumbent in the latter classes has management responsibilities for the respective unit and has broader financial planning, recordkeeping, and administration duties. EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class. Plans, organizes, controls, integrates, and evaluates the work of the assigned programs and staff; with staff, develops, implements, and monitors work plans to achieve goals and objectives; contributes to the development of and monitors performance against the annual unit and department budget; supervises and participates in developing, implementing, and evaluating plans, work processes, systems, and procedures to achieve annual goals, objectives, and work standards; ensures the preparation and maintenance of a variety of records and reports. Manages the performance of assigned staff; interviews and selects new staff; establishes performance requirements and personal development targets; regularly monitors performance and provides coaching for performance improvement and development; recommends compensation and provides other rewards to recognize performance; hears and makes recommendations on grievances; subject to management concurrence, approves or takes disciplinary action, up to and including termination, to address performance deficiencies, in accordance with Agency policies and labor agreements. Provides day-to-day leadership and works with staff to ensure a high-performance, customer service-oriented work environment that supports achieving the Department's and Agency's mission, objectives, and values regarding teamwork, mutual trust, and respect; applies best practices and quality assurance processes to assigned areas of responsibility; enforces the maintenance of safe working conditions and ensures safe work practices are followed by assigned staff. Participates in the formulation and implementation of departmental policy, planning, and strategy development; leads and directs staff and outside consulting resources in the development and application of new methods and processes to achieve higher efficiency, quality, and innovation in departmental work processes. Provides Agency-wide assistance on planning and resources issues and projects; assists outside agencies and businesses on water resources, environmental compliance, or wastewater operational concerns; assists in coordinating projects and programs with various local agencies. Manages the budget for assigned functional area including assisting in the development and monitoring of budget documents, performing or reviewing research, complex analyses and projections and analyzing trends and expenditures; tracks expenditures against the budget and compiles and analyzes budget variance reports; oversees the processing of purchase requisitions, check requests and the preparation of invoices and billing; manages and maintains inventory. Serves as a department or Agency representative to the Agency Board, Agency departments, customer agencies, business and community organizations, and federal, state, and local governmental bodies. Maintains up-to-date technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks and participating in professional associations. Develops Board letters and provides Agency Committee/Board Presentations. These presentations may include resolutions, program contracts, and various Annual Reports and performance matrices. Assists with the development, management and implementation of department goals, budget, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned area of responsibility. May act as the Manager of Compliance and Sustainability, Manager of Environmental Services, or Manager of Water Resources in the Manager's absence. For Compliance and Sustainability: Reviews all reports, applications, and correspondence prior to submission to regulatory agencies, such as the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), California Air Resources Board (CARB), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Division of Drinking Water (DDW), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE); conducts monthly, quarterly, semiannual and annual monitoring and reporting as specified in regulatory permits for water, wastewater, recycled water, biosolids, industrial stormwater, groundwater recharge and sanitary sewer flow. Provides technical guidance on air-quality reporting such as annual emissions reports (AER), internal combustion engine (ICE) source testing, continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS), and Title V semiannual monitoring (SAM). Coordinates compliance and audit activities in support of water and air-quality programs and related regulatory requirements to ensure that plans and practices are established and maintained, and regulatory requirements have been met; participates in facilities inspections; develops and reviews computerized tracking systems. Develops and manages special projects and scientific studies and investigations; coordinates activities with consultants, regulators, and Agency staff. Oversees activities that ensure regulatory compliance of water, wastewater, recycled water, groundwater recharge, stormwater, compost, and air quality across the Agency, Chino Desalter Authority (CDA) and Inland Empire Regional Composting Facility (IERCF); assists in the development and implementation of plans and procedures to maintain regulatory compliance; including ensuring permit requirements are met. Reviews and analyzes proposed and adopted regulations and reports for their impact on the Agency's facilities and programs; recommends and implements approved changes to Agency ordinances as a result of regulatory changes; conducts meetings with regulatory agencies to discuss permitting, monitoring, enforcement and regulatory issues and changes. Prepares and presents presentation materials and conducts training on environmental compliance; develops compliance guidance documents. Oversees activities for a wide range of professional, complex duties to ensure the Agency's environmental compliance with all federal, state and local laws/ordinances related Agency programs including water, wastewater, groundwater, industrial waste, biosolids, and air quality. Coordinates and prepares the response, reporting and remediation of non-compliance occurrences such as spills, gas venting, recycled water release, and sanitary sewer overflow. Monitors and coordinates the preparation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents for Agency projects, as well as general permit administration. Provides assistance in the development and implementation of sustainable initiatives; oversees the Agency's Energy Management program; manages renewable energy and efficiency projects to stabilize future energy rates while containing costs; assists in negotiating contracts with energy service providers; acts as liaison with Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison, private energy partners, and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) providers. For Environmental Services: Directs staff in planning and overseeing activities that ensure regulatory compliance of industrial pretreatment programs across the Agency service area; developing and implementing plans and procedures to maintain regulatory compliance; managing the inspection, monitoring and enforcement of wastewater discharge permits from all Agency customers for three collection systems for reclaimable and non-reclaimable wastewater. Directs and may participate in the selection of the appropriate level of enforcement action to take against non-compliant industries, determination of the penalty amount, communicating with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to dispute findings or recommendations, and responding to RWQCB and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audits. Responsible for maintaining relationships and coordinating efforts for the pretreatment and source control program with customer agencies, industrial and commercial facilities and regulating entities; works with staff to resolve complex and controversial issues; coordinates public outreach programs; presents and participates in meetings of other agency, governmental and community commissions, boards and committees. Directs the negotiation of revised wastewater disposal agreements with Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts for the use of Non-Reclaimable Wastewater System (NRWS) and negotiates and allocates Capacity Rights Agreements with NRWS customers; ensures proper billing for the non-reclaimable system and Brine Line. Oversees the work of staff to ensure the timely preparation and completion of a variety of mandated reports for submission to regulatory agencies including monthly, quarterly and annual Pretreatment Program reports for North NRWS, Brine Line and Regional Wastewater Systems; responsible for ensuring completion of inspection reports, draft permits, toxic organic management plans, slug discharge control plans and letters prepared by Agency inspection and engineering staff prior to submission or delivery; reviews audit reports. Responsible for ensuring reporting and remediation of non-compliance occurrences such as recycled water release and sanitary sewer overflow. Reviews and manages the development of the Regional Pretreatment Program Local Limits. Responsible for overseeing certain wastewater planning initiatives such as wastewater resource planning, flow and loading studies, feasibility studies, coordination of wastewater demand forecasting, development of guidelines for proper collection of wastewater connection fees. For Water Resources: Reviews legislative, regulatory, and other water resources related policy initiatives for consistency with Agency policies and priorities; prepares response letters or updates to management as needed. Engages in stakeholder processes to promote initiatives benefitting the Agency and the greater region. Responsible for overseeing water resources planning initiatives. Develops plans for managing imported water, surface water, groundwater, recycled water and any future versions of reuse, forecasting demand to ensure reliability within the Agency's service region; guides development of computer modeling and analyses; oversees preparation of short- and long-term planning reports and technical documents; identifies and recommends future facilities/infrastructure projects needed to meet regional service demands, integrating multiple planning documents and water resource policies/agreements. Guides staff and supports the management of the Agency's relations and cooperative initiatives with its customer agencies, the Metropolitan Water District and its member agencies, Chino Basin Watermaster, and the Santa Ana Water Project Authority (SAWPA). Assesses reports with consideration for cost impacts to the Agency and ensures data reliability and conformance with the Agency's goals/policies. Serves as a lead representative for the Agency at various water-related meetings, conferences, and functions and before various governmental bodies. Oversees communications with multiple outside agencies, organizations, and government officials at the local, regional, and State levels; regularly makes public presentations on topics related to job function. Evaluates resource projects and agreements; conducts program assessments; develops monthly/quarterly/as-needed analyses, reports, and recommendations. Formulates communication strategies for addressing Agency concerns and priorities; provides strategic planning recommendations in support of Agency programs, projects, and initiatives. Facilitates various roundtable discussions to discuss new legislations or policies impacting regional water resources. Undertakes independent analyses, gives summary overviews of the topic, drafts comment letters as appropriate, and coordinates with industry advocacy groups such as WateReuse Association and the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA). Responsible for organizing and maintaining regional water resources usage and planning data. Reviews data with and provides data to customer agencies or Chino Basin Watermaster as needed. QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES: EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in business/public administration, natural, physical, environmental sciences, water resources, engineering, planning/management, urban/regional planning or a closely related field, and at least seven years of professional-level progressively responsible experience in resources planning (including environmental/habitat, energy, or water resources), environmental compliance/testing, energy/sustainability management, or wastewater treatment; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: A valid Class "C" California driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program. A Grade III or IV Environmental Compliance Inspector Certification from the California Water Environment Association for the Environmental Services Unit is preferred. KNOWLEDGE OF: Principles and practices of environmental resources and planning, water resources management, including demand management, supply, storage, transition, treatment and distribution. Applicable federal, state and local water, wastewater, recycled water, stormwater and safety laws, regulations and standards, including the legislative process related to California water rights and water planning. Principles of Program and Project Management: planning, budgeting, and contract management. Principles of conflict management within diverse group decision-making. Principles and practices of water resource management, especially as it pertains to Southern California. Processes and practices of the Agency's recycled water, potable water, groundwater recharge systems, water use efficiency practices, and wastewater treatment/pretreatment and distribution, Risk and resilience analysis techniques used in water resource planning and computer software applications related to job functions. Principles and practices of quality assurance/quality control. Computer proficiency in advanced web, spreadsheet and database programs. Techniques of statistical sampling and analysis. Practices of sound business communications. Practices/techniques of training. Principles and practices of public outreach and involvement, including marketing principles and practices. Safety policies and safe work practices applicable to the work. Agency human resources policies and labor contract provisions. ABILITY TO: Lead people in a manner that promotes accountability, employee engagement, staff development, respect, and collaboration. Manage the performance of staff by coaching for performance. Effectively and professionally work with a diverse group of staff and community members. Prepare clear and accurate records, reports, correspondence and other written materials. Plan, manage, assign, delegate, direct, and review a variety of functional tasks to achieve the results expected of the Planning and Resources Department. Perform complex independent analyses on environmental compliance, energy management, environmental/water resources planning tasks using computer equipment, environmental, demographic and geographical databases, and surveys and maps to prepare studies, develop alternatives, and make recommendations. Collect, analyze and integrate relevant data from various sources. Perform complex water resource management, water conservation, water quality and environmental analyses using computer equipment, environmental, demographic and geographical databases, surveys and maps. Conduct independent research studies, prepare studies/reports of current water resource developments and trends, analyze issues and problems, develop alternatives and make sound, appropriate recommendations. Coordinate planning and program activities with multiple internal and external stakeholders and facilitate development of agreement and consensus on proposed solutions. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Understand and follow written and oral instructions. Operate a computer and standard business software and advanced analytical and statistical software. Understand, interpret, explain and apply applicable laws, codes and ordinances. Represent the Agency effectively in dealings with various stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and other agencies in a variety of forums. Present proposals and recommendations clearly, logically and persuasively. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all those encountered in the course of work. Exercise independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines. Use tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive and complex issues, situations and concerned people. Be present onsite at Agency locations during normal business hours. Be physically present at non-Agency locations including, but not limited to, customer agencies, conferences, and other work-related events that occur offsite. SELECTION PROCESS: All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical examination. The successful candidate will be required to pass a background/reference check and pre-employment physical examination including a drug screen (for safety sensitive position) at no cost to the candidate. Please visit our website at www.ieua.org and select the Human Resources Department for additional information regarding the Agency, the hiring process and benefit information. Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at ( 909 ) 993-1645 or hrdept@ieua.org at least 72 hours in advance of the need for accommodation. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE. "The Agency's success is obtained by creating a positive and diverse work environment which recognizes individual differences and experiences".