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Director Water Resource Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Village of Ruidoso

Water Resource Specialist

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

... Director. Assist Water Resource Manager in coordination with State and Federal agencies regarding State & Federal Water Quality and other environmental regulations including but not limited to the ...

Sgm Inc

Water Resources Engineer III/IV

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$89K - $131K/yr

This position may be responsible for mentoring and directing work of, and may supervise, junior ... Demonstrated knowledge of Colorado water rights and water resource management, including local ...

New

GZA GeoEnvironmental

Water Resource Engineer

Norwood, MA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Project Manager/Technical Specialist (Water Resources) Office: Metro-Boston GZA is growing its ... direct interaction with clients and the ability to manage and mentor GZA existing staff of project ...

City of Farmington

Water Resource Specialist

Farmington, NM · On-site

$69K - $108K/yr

Communicates with the Public Works Director through the Division Administrator. Attendance at work ... Being New Mexico Certified Flood Plain Manager is a plus. Reviews plats for compliance with codes ...

City of Farmington

Water Resource Specialist

Farmington, NM · On-site

$69K - $108K/yr

Communicates with the Public Works Director through the Division Administrator. Attendance at work ... Being New Mexico Certified Flood Plain Manager is a plus. Reviews plats for compliance with codes ...

SGM

Water Resources Engineer I/II

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$76K - $84K/yr

Minimum Qualifications: 0-5 years of experience in water resource consulting and management including groundwater, surface water hydrology, water rights, and water quality services Interest in and ...

Anchor QEA

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Performing technical analyses and supporting the development of civil engineering design documents for water resources management, water supply, water conveyance, water storage, stormwater, and ...

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Director Water Resource Management information

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How much do director water resource management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for director water resource management in the United States is $116,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Water Resource Management, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Water Resource Management, you need expertise in hydrology, environmental science, regulatory compliance, and a relevant advanced degree such as in civil or environmental engineering. Familiarity with GIS software, water modeling tools, and regulatory reporting systems is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Water Resource Specialist (CWRS). Strong leadership, strategic planning, communication, and stakeholder management skills set standout professionals apart in this field. These abilities ensure the effective stewardship of water resources, regulatory adherence, and the successful coordination of complex projects impacting communities and the environment.

Who is the managing director of the water resources Authority?

The managing director of a Water Resources Authority is typically the top executive responsible for overseeing water management policies, projects, and operations within the agency. The specific individual holding this position varies by region and organization, and their appointment is usually announced publicly on official government or agency websites.

What is a director of resource management?

A director of resource management is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the efficient allocation and utilization of resources, such as water, personnel, and equipment, within an organization or department. In water resource management, this role involves planning, policy development, and coordination to ensure sustainable and effective water use, often requiring knowledge of environmental regulations and management tools. The position typically requires leadership skills, strategic planning, and relevant certifications or experience in resource management or environmental science.

What does a Director of Water Resource Management do?

A Director of Water Resource Management oversees the planning, development, and management of water resources for a region, city, or organization. Their responsibilities include ensuring sustainable water use, developing policies and programs, managing budgets, and coordinating with governmental agencies, stakeholders, and the public. They also lead teams of engineers, scientists, and other professionals to address water quality, supply, and conservation issues. The director ensures compliance with environmental regulations and works to secure funding for water projects. Effective leadership and strategic planning are essential in this role to address both immediate and long-term water challenges.

What are the primary challenges faced by a Director of Water Resource Management, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

One of the main challenges in this role is balancing competing demands for water resources among agricultural, industrial, and municipal users while ensuring environmental sustainability. Directors must navigate complex regulatory requirements, manage stakeholder expectations, and respond to emerging issues such as drought or contamination events. Successful candidates can prepare by developing strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills, as well as staying current on water policy trends and best practices in resource management. Experience in cross-functional leadership and engaging with government agencies, community groups, and technical experts is also highly beneficial.

What are the 4 dimensions of Iwrm?

As a Water Resource Management professional, understanding the four dimensions of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is essential. These dimensions include social, economic, environmental, and institutional aspects, which collectively promote sustainable water use and equitable access. Effective IWRM requires coordination among stakeholders, policy development, and the use of tools like water modeling and data analysis.

What is the difference between Director Water Resource Management vs Water Resources Engineer?

AspectDirector Water Resource ManagementWater Resources Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related fields; often requires management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering; licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, policy development, overseeing teams, high-level decision makingDesign, analysis, modeling, fieldwork, technical problem-solving
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, consulting firms, large utilitiesEngineering firms, consulting companies, government departments

The main difference is that the Director Water Resource Management focuses on strategic leadership, policy, and overseeing water resource programs, while the Water Resources Engineer handles technical design, analysis, and implementation of water projects. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What do water resource managers do?

Water resource managers oversee the planning, development, and management of water supplies to ensure sustainable use and quality. They analyze data, develop policies, and coordinate with engineers and environmental specialists to address water-related challenges, often using tools like GIS and requiring relevant certifications. Their work typically involves environmental assessment, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning to support communities and ecosystems.
More about Director Water Resource Management jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Water Resource Management jobs? Cities with the most Director Water Resource Management job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Management jobs? The most popular types of Water Resource Management jobs are:
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Director Water Resource Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Water Resource Management job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,601 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Water Resource Specialist

Village of Ruidoso, NM

Ruidoso, NM • On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary : $41,932.80 - $48,214.40 Annually
Location : 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 060426-WRS
Department: RJU Executive
Opening Date: 06/04/2026
Classification Summary
The Water Resource Specialist is under the general supervision of the Water Resource Manager to coordinate workload, projects, and daily duties. This position assists in the implementation of the Village's various Water Resource Initiatives, including but not limited to water rights administration, water conservation, asset management, source water protection, water development, watershed health, and GIS program. This position works Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00 p.m. and is non-exempt for FLSA purposes.
Under the general supervision of the Water Resource Manager, assists in implementation of all aspects of water rights administration, Water Conservation Plan, Water Development Plan, Source Water Protection Plan, Asset Management Plan, Watershed Health program, and GIS program, and other Water Resource initiatives.
Duties and Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions
The essential functions or 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 the position.
  • Assists with activities regarding the Village's Water rights portfolio and the Village's water development plan, including water rights administration and accounting, water rights permitting, acquisition of leased and/or purchased water rights, water rights lease and payment agreements, treated effluent contracts, water reuse programs, water conservation programs and environmental regulations and compliance as related to water rights administration.
  • Assists with implementation of the Source Water Protection Plan, Water Development Plan, Water, Conservation Plan, Asset Management Plan, and Water Utility GIS program.
  • Assists with implementation of a water conservation program (including assisting with annual AWWA water audits), compliance, and public outreach functions.
  • Gains an understanding of water diversion strategy, respective to the Village's water right portfolio, snowpack and precipitation predictions, and planned or emergency infrastructure improvements.
  • Gains an understanding of complying with conditions of approval related to approved water permits and maintenance of the five-year accounting of water rights, updated on a monthly basis and periodically reconciled with the OSE.
  • Assists in technical and policy research on water quantity and quality. Under the supervision of the Water Resource Manager, prepares or assists in the preparation of documents for internal and external use, such as reports, resolutions, ordinances, policy recommendations, fiscal impact reports, professional service contracts, grant applications, permit applications, request for proposals (RFP's) agreements and other contracts, water storage contracts, return flow plans, and memorandums of understanding.
  • Coordinates with local, state and federal agencies, boards, committees, advisory groups and other organizations, stakeholders and authorities on water resource management and conservation strategies. Develops and maintains cooperative working relationships with other governmental and regulatory agencies and various public and private groups.
  • Assists in the pursuit of outside funding sources for the implementation of water utility initiatives.
  • Assists in implementation of water resource and conservation goals
  • Assists with the review, analysis and interpretation of water quality data and assists in the recommendation and maintenance of practices required to determine and/or improve water quantity and quality for both customers and other stakeholders.
  • Assists in the research and review of current and developing federal, state and local water quality laws, regulations, and programs to determine potential impact on the Village.
  • Assists in the preparation of compliance reports and correspondence to government agencies; may serve as a liaison to federal, state and local water quality regulatory authorities under the guidance of Watershed and Water Rights Director.
  • Assist Water Resource Manager in coordination with State and Federal agencies regarding State & Federal Water Quality and other environmental regulations including but not limited to the Clean Water Act, Safe Water Drinking Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Endangered Species Act.
  • Proactively participates and represents Village's interests in regional, state, and local organizations dealing with water management and protection.
  • Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity of services
  • Under the supervision of Water Resource Manager, plans and implements watershed enhancement projects
  • Coordinates water protection activities with stakeholders in watershed.
  • Report to the Village Manager and to the Village Council if requested on the status of the Water Conservation Plan, Water Development Plan, Source Water Protection Plan, water rights purchases, conditions of permit, or any other water resource developments.
Specialization Job Functions (GIS)
  • Implement Water Utility GIS program
  • Inputs, updates, edits, and maintains the Village's GIS database and maps according to department policies and procedures using ArcGIS software
  • Cleaning up data and making corrections in response to changes and additional data sets integrated into GIS
  • Analyzes data to determine trends and patterns in water utilities
  • Updates the digital data layers and creates corresponding maps; compiles geographic data from a variety of sources; scans, rectifies, and digitizes data; builds topology
  • Performs quality control checks to assure integrity of GIS data and applications
  • Uses ArcGIS command and compilation methods to generate and utilize spatial overlays and models
  • Prepares maps, plans, charts and other graphics as directed
  • Frequently sorts, reviews, evaluates, and checks computerized data
  • Writes macros for linking and manipulating computerized data to generate maps, charts, and plans to facilitate planning and engineering projects
  • Develops and maintains the ability to query the databases, view useful information on-screen, and produce large format, presentation quality graphics and displays
  • Perform GPS/GIS related field work which may include use of GPS to collect and record site-specific data, maintain and configure GPS equipment, and the transfer of data from GPS to GIS database
  • Produces special purposes maps for the Village departments, the public, and public agencies as directed
  • Research and compile materials and maps; produces digital copies of Village data as requested
Other Responsibilities or Job Requirements
  • Assists and works cooperatively with other Public Works Department staff on projects
  • Provide assistance to departments, clients, and general public in obtaining information
  • Provides technical information to citizens and Village staff as authorized
  • Ability to recognize and keep confidential information private about customers and employees
  • Maintains a high level of computer abilities and keeps up with changing technology.
  • Completes personal timesheet accurately and timely. Ensures time is reported based on actual time worked
  • Ensures that any on-the-job injury is reported immediately and followed up with appropriate forms and actions
  • Reports any suspected fraud, waste, and/or abuse to Public Works Director or Village Manager
  • Ensures any reports of harassment are immediately reported and appropriate actions are taken
  • Attend meetings, training, and workshops as needed
  • Strong reading skills of maps, engineering specifications, and property deeds
  • Work closely with other GIS staff for data management and GIS projects
  • The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees in this job. As a condition of employment, employees are required to perform other related duties and special projects as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in any of the following preferred: Engineering, Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Natural or Water Resources Management, Physical Science, or Geography (GIS) from an accredited college or university plus two (2) years of relevant experience. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field such as Business, Statistics and Environmental Science or GIS and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
  • Experience using ArcGIS is required; experience using Pathfinder Office, Terrasync, and ArcOnline is preferred
  • High level of understanding of Microsoft Office applications preferred
  • Must be able to pass criminal history checks
  • Must be able to pass a credit check
  • Must be willing to take and pass a drug/alcohol test and comply with agency "Drug Free" Policy
  • Must possess and maintain valid New Mexico motor vehicle operator's permit of appropriate classification and endorsement as required. Must agree to maintain a satisfactory MVR and minimum requirement of insurability as required by law. MVR background checks will be conducted by the Village
Qualifications (GIS specialization)
  • Must possess and maintain ArcGIS Foundations Certification within a year
  • Knowledge of principles of land planning, surveying, mapping, cartography, and global positioning systems; including familiarity with reading parcel maps, geological survey maps, plats, plans, and blueprints
  • Knowledge of aerial photography and satellite imaging
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of GIS, including data compilation techniques, ArcGIS software applications, graphics applications and overlays, and spatial models for computer environments and peripheral devices
  • Knowledge and ability of GIS database systems integration, and quality control and assurance techniques
  • Knowledge of GIS mapping and data systems including use, operation, and customized mapping and database design
  • Ability to prepare accurate, presentation ready maps from plans, sketches, verbal descriptions, and specifications
  • Ability to maintain effective documentation and system backups of maps and data
  • Ability to provide data and maps for detailed operation analysis
  • Skill in reading, understanding, developing, manipulating and analyzing geographic information in a variety of data formats and projections from multiple public and private sources

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in any of the following preferred: Engineering, Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Natural or Water Resources Management, Physical Science, or Geography (GIS) from an accredited college or university. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field such as Business, Statistics and Environmental Science or GIS and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Principles of surveying, mapping, cartography, and global positioning systems.
  • Principles and practices of GIS, including data compilation techniques, ArcGIS software applications, graphics applications and overlays, and spatial models for computer environments and peripheral devices
  • Global Positions Systems (GPS) platforms
  • Prepare accurate, presentation ready maps from plans, sketches, verbal descriptions, and specifications
  • Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; manage time and resources effectively; balance demands of multiple tasks and projects; initiate and complete long-term projects; effectively communicate orally and in writing; work independently and administer program areas with minimal supervision
  • Balance a variety of duties, prioritize, and meet deadlines including analyzing problems, particularly overseeing multiple projects simultaneously while meeting respective deadlines.
  • Effectively communicate in verbal and written forms
  • Establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers, supervisors, the public, and other agencies
  • Organize and set priorities and prepare and deliver presentations.
  • Global Positions Systems (GPS) platforms

Physical Demands
  • Ability to maintain physical condition and stamina appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include sitting, standing, walking, driving or riding in a car for extended periods of time
  • While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently required to talk or hear
  • The employee frequently uses hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms
  • The usual requirements in an office environment may require lifting boxes of supplies, equipment, and occasional adjustments of office furniture
  • Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds
  • Occasional bending or squatting required
  • Occasional crawling on knees required

Travel Requirements
  • Limited travel - ability to travel for activities such as classes, and workshops in and out of the area
  • Overnight travel as required
Closing Statements
  • Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position.
  • In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services.
  • This job description is subject to change as t

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