Water Quality & Compliance Specialist

MP Materials; Mountain Pass (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

MP Materials is seeking an Environmental Specialist to lead water compliance programs, track regulatory changes, and develop training across the site. You will ensure adherence to water quality standards, prepare permits, and partner with operations to maintain safe, compliant facilities.

The role emphasizes cross‑functional collaboration, continuous improvement of environmental performance, and proactive risk reduction within a manufacturing and mining context in California.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental or environmental related discipline preferred.
• 4+ years’ experience in environmental fields.
• CA State Water Boards D1 Operator certification preferred; or be able to acquire within 6 months.
• Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to train and direct others and work independently.
• Knowledge of industrial plant processes and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and actively update environmental compliance programs in assigned area of responsibility (water management).
• Maintain accurate records of water data, water system performance, and operational logs.
• Prepare and submit required reports such as Water Quality Monitoring Reports, Water Use Reports, and Site Water Reports.
• Prepare, submit, and maintain all required water permits, including California Regional Water Board, County Water Permits, and SWPPP Reports.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret water data from wells and sample data.
• Support environmental assessments for new or modified processes and projects.
• Assist operations with ensuring water systems operate efficiently.
• Conduct internal water compliance audits and corrective action follow-ups.
• Develop and deliver water compliance training for employees and contractors.
• Track changes in water regulations and communicate impacts to management.
• Support sustainability initiatives related to water balance and freshwater use.
• Identify opportunities to reduce environmental impact and improve compliance.
• Perform EH&S audits and document results.
• Understand CalOSHA and MSHA regulations and MP Materials practices.
• Respond to chemical spill emergencies and manage containment and cleanup.
• Educate site personnel on environmental policies and regulatory changes.
• Maintain knowledge of regulations across air, water, and solid waste management.

Skills

Environmental compliance

Water management

Regulatory knowledge

Training & mentoring

Audit & reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental discipline

Tools

Regulatory tracking programs

Job description

MP Materials is seeking an Environmental Specialist to lead water compliance programs, track regulatory changes, and develop training across the site. You will ensure adherence to water quality standards, prepare permits, and partner with operations to maintain safe, compliant facilities.

The role emphasizes cross‑functional collaboration, continuous improvement of environmental performance, and proactive risk reduction within a manufacturing and mining context in California.