Water Quality Standards Coordinator

Water Quality Standards Coordinator

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $25.90 - $60.08 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid

Recruiter – Coral Ortega | [email protected] | 801-538-4624
Application Deadline – 9/6/2026

This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality is seeking a Water Quality Standards Coordinator to work in the Division of Water Quality. This position is part of the Standards and Technical Services Section and will lead or oversee Water Quality Standards development, modification, and coordination for the Division.

While this position may be filled at any of the advertised levels listed below, we anticipate hiring at the Environmental Scientist III level. Salary depends on the job level offered within the series.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and apply a thorough knowledge of EPA and Utah code, rules, and guidance with regard to water quality standards;
  
• Plan, prioritize, communicate, and execute water quality standards adoptions and state rulemaking considering application to assessments, wasteloads, and permits;
  
• Develop technical support and implementation documents;
  
• Communicate scientific concepts and regulatory language to both technical and lay audiences;
  
• Strengthen existing collaboration and seek new partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies and stakeholders for related water quality programs;
  
• Update and execute water quality standards program plan through the Triennial Review;
  
• Design and manage special studies in support of water quality standards development;
  
• Implement effective project management for projects conducted internally and those contracted to external entities that require both short and long-term objectives.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience analyzing, interpreting, and communicating environmental data.
• Effective written and verbal communication with internal and external customers, stakeholders, and the public.
• Understands principles, theories, and practices of environmental and physical sciences.
• Designs efficient and effective scientific methods including Standard Operating Procedures and Sampling and Analysis Plans.
• Experience ensuring that objectives are delivered in a timely manner.
• Works to continually improve work processes and apply plans efficiently and effectively.
• Experience promoting environmental quality and stewardship.
• Writes, reviews, and edits documents for accuracy and completeness.
• Maintains a keen interest in updating the program and sharing ideas on new methods, techniques, and sources of information.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• A Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited institution in biology, chemistry, ecology, environmental science, fisheries science, watershed science, or closely related discipline.
• Direct coursework, a demonstrated understanding, or an advanced degree such as a Master’s or PhD of the following disciplines: aquatic ecology, environmental health/science, risk assessment, water resources, or related discipline.
• Experience building partnerships, resolving conflicts, and working cooperatively with agencies, stakeholders, and the public.
• Understands and maintains a thorough knowledge of EPA and Utah code, rules, and guidance regarding water quality.

Job Series

The selected candidate for this position may be hired as an Environmental Scientist I with a salary range of $25.90- $38.90 per hour, an Environmental Scientist II with a  salary range of $30.47 - $45.78 per hour, an Environmental Scientist III with a salary range of $35.85 - $53.87 per hour, or an Environmental Scientist IV with a salary range of $40.00 - 60.08 per hour. 

About the Role

Location –
195 North 1950 West
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – B - Competitive Career Service

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. 
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. 
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
For more information about the Department of Environmental Quality and the Division of Water Quality, click here. 

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.