Water Resources Specialist

Westlands Water District; Fresno (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlands Water District seeks a Water Resources Specialist to work on critical water management projects in California. The role focuses on CVP and SWP operations, groundwater reliability, and environmental compliance, translating complex data into practical recommendations for decision-makers.

The ideal candidate will bring a bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least three years of professional experience, with a master’s degree able to substitute for two years.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus three years of professional experience in water resources or a related discipline.
• Master's degree may substitute for two years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Work on high-profile projects involving CVP and SWP operations.
• Manage groundwater management and water supply reliability.
• Support environmental compliance and permitting efforts.
• Contribute to water policy, economic and technical analyses.
• Assist with hydrologic and operational forecasting and planning.
• Coordinate with stakeholders for strategic planning.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Water Resources, Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Agricultural Science, Public Policy, Economics, Natural Resource Management, or closely related field

Job description

Salary

• Annual Salary Range: $100,008 - $200,016.
• Anticipated Hiring Range: $100,008 - $150,000 DOQ (Depending on Qualifications).

Location

Fresno or Sacramento, California.

Why Join Westlands?

As a Water Resources Specialist, you'll work on high-profile projects involving:

• Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project (SWP) operations.
• Groundwater management and water supply reliability.
• Environmental compliance and permitting.
• Water policy, economic, and technical analyses.
• Hydrologic and operational forecasting.
• Strategic planning and stakeholder coordination.

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who can translate complex technical and regulatory information into practical recommendations that support critical water management decisions.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Water Resources, Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Agricultural Science, Public Policy, Economics, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field, plus three years of professional experience in water resources or a related discipline. A master's degree may substitute for two years of experience.

Outstanding Benefits:

Westlands Water District offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• CalPERS Retirement.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Life and Disability Insurance.
• Education Assistance.
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Paid Vacation and Holidays.
• Flexible Spending Account.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Longevity Pay and more.

Application Deadline:

Open Until Filled. Applications are being accepted beginning October 21, 2026.