Interim Water Quality Program Specialist

California Water Service

Job Description:

The Interim Water Quality Program Specialist (WQPS) performs complex tasks to assist with compliance of water quality regulations and programs. Primary responsibilities focus on drinking water public health, regulatory planning and compliance. Capital project support including Division of Drinking Water (DDW) permitting, developing compliance strategy, and new regulation implementation for capital projects. This includes water quality support during the general rate case development, integration of new water systems for new business efforts, and partner state projects. The WQPS will also be responsible for providing ongoing backup and coverage for the Water Quality Program Manager (WQPM) team during emergencies or personnel transitions. This position is located in East Los Angeles, CA.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Reviews of Monitoring Schedules, permit monitoring requirements, DDW web site, analytical results of raw/finished water and sample tracking, and coordination to ensure regulatory compliance

• Assists WQPM with creation of Consumer Confidence Reports, Annual Water Quality reports, Monthly reporting, and any other internal and external reporting

• Understand permits conditions, including operations plans for distribution and treatment facilities and update plans as required

• Serves as the primary water quality stakeholder to provide input and support to the Engineering department project management process of key capital projects

• Provides WQ support for all capital projects – to include planning, permitting, implementation, final DDW inspections, and training

• Works as water quality lead with Engineering to develop priorities, schedule, and justifications for General Rate Case

• Supports capital planning for deficiencies from the Division of Drinking Water (DDW) Sanitary Surveys (inspections) and incorporation of water quality deficiencies in to a tracking program and monitor and prioritize for completion

• Assists WQPM in developing water quality monitoring schedules for sources, water treatment plants, and distribution systems in accordance with applicable regulations

• Supports of partner state water quality projects and integration/implementation of new water systems for new business

• Completes new water supply source data review and appropriate treatment technologies review for removal of contaminants under the direction of the WQPM and Manager of WQ

• Participates in training and presentation techniques, including media training

• Develops reports, technical summaries, and data summaries to assist with water quality studies, treatment system design review, and permitting

• Coordinates within Water Quality Department, other Departments, and Districts to ensure regulatory requirements are met

• Exhibits behavior that supports a safety culture; attends and participates at all required safety training programs; adheres to Company Safety Policies; uses Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as appropriate, reports safety issues/concerns to management in a timely manner, and encourages others to behave in the same manner

• Participates in and supports the Company’s Continuous Improvement program and projects

• Performs work onsite at assigned office location

• Performs other similar duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related field or equivalent experience

• California Division of Drinking Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certification within 1 year of employment

• California Division of Drinking Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certification within 1 year of employment

• Valid California Driver License

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal customers, outside vendors, and consultants

• Knowledge of applicable drinking water laws and regulations to include SDWA, Title 22, and Title 17

• Knowledge of internal Policy and Procedures related to drinking water, safety, and operations support

• Ability to prepare manage and analyze data

• Strong knowledge of and experience in project management

• Good interpersonal skills

• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills

Salary Range: $74,600 - $138,400 (DOE)

Deadline to submit resume is Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

The Equal Opportunity Policy of the Company is based upon the philosophy that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity.  California Water Service, Hawai'i Water Service, New Mexico Water Service, Texas Water Service and Washington Water Service do not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class.  The Company makes all employment decisions in a non-discriminatory manner. EOE, VET, DISABILITIES.