Salary: See Position DescriptionLocation : City of Oceanside, CAJob Type: Full TimeJob Number: 25-73Department: Water UtilitiesOpening Date: 01/09/2025Closing Date: 2/7/2025 5:00 PM Pacific IntroductionThe Water Utilities Department is in the final stages of a salary and compensation study to maintain standing as a regionally competitive water and wastewater employer. The results of this study may impact compensation rates during fiscal year 2024/25.Monthly SalaryEnvironmental Specialist I $5,609 -$7,519Environmental Specialist II $6,186 - $8,289About Oceanside's Water Utilities Department & Our Water Use Efficiency Team The Oceanside Water Utilities Department is an innovative and forward-looking organization whose goal it is to ensure ongoing access to safe & affordable drinking water, reliable wastewater collection & treatment services, and environmental sustainability by maintaining top talent, resource resiliency, dependability, and system efficiency.The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for the position of Environmental Specialist I/II in the Water Use Efficiency (WUE) Program. This program is a part of the City's innovative Green Oceanside environmental division - a team that oversees Oceanside's environmental stewardship initiatives and regulatory responsibilities and communicates goals and programs through social media, public events, and other outreach. About the positionGreen Oceanside is seeking a detailed, customer-service focused problem solver whose everyday role will be varied, but focused on the City's water users and their water efficiency efforts. This position will communicate clearly in writing, in conversations, and in presentations; be involved in customer service, education, outreach, and research; maintain current awareness of specific local, regional, and state programs that offer resources to our customers; and help ensure access for customers and the city. This specialist will also work closely with water consumption and program participation data. Working with the WUE supervisor, this Environmental Specialist I/II will manage their own project tasks and deadlines including monthly regulatory compliance submittals. As a vital member of the WUE team, you will be part of analyzing and implementing improvements to programs along with assorted administrative WUE program duties.You should be excited about this opportunity because you will...
- Be an invaluable departmental representative, providing water-use information & support to our many residential & commercial customers.
- Incrementally work towards the city's long-term environmental objectives.
- Promote ongoing water-use programs, strategies & requirements.
- Work alongside various other City departments & utility field divisions to accomplish ongoing and regulatory tasks.
- Be part of a team who is passionate about sustainability, economic development and seeking opportunities for improvement!
Who we are looking for...A creative problem-solver with a patient approach and helpful nature is the ideal candidate for this position.Examples of DutiesEducates residents, multifamily tenants and property owners, visitors, businesses and the public on water conservation regulations, measures, principles and practices; Develops, implements, monitors and analyzes citizen participation programs; monitors, analyzes, and remains informed on federal and state legislation and regulations; works with internal and external customers and stakeholders to resolve questions, service requests and/or problems and complaints; Creates related public relations materials, such as webpages, fliers, pamphlets and videos; develops educational materials and provides training on environmental programs and regulations; Designs and implements water efficiency and conservation program; conducts data collections, interpretations, forecasting and research on water conservation and other water management programs; implements or requires implementation of best management practices or controls at industrial, municipal, commercial, and residential sites as needed; Provides information and assistance with water use ordinances for all industrial, commercial, municipal and residential sites; Develops, implements and administers Water Conservation Master Plan, Water Shortage Contingency Plan and other regulatory monitoring programs; Develops water efficiency programs for various customer classes; applies for and administers grants for environmental and educational projects;Prepares applicable reports required or requested by regulators or wholesalers, which involves interpreting technical data, creating charts and databases, and preparing reports; conducts public speaking including on video, as necessary; deals with the public tactfully and effectively; establishes and maintains cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of duties; Communicates clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing; understands and carries out oral and written instructions;Performs related duties as assigned. Minimum QualificationsENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I Knowledge of:
- Data management, organization, and analysis methods.
- Modern principles and practices of environmental policy environmental studies, sustainability, public administration applicable to water use efficiency,
- Principles and practices of water conservation laws and legal terminology.
- Principles and practices of public relations, communications and customer service.
- Applicable state and federal laws.
Ability to:
- Conduct research and prepare complete and accurate analyses, reports and recommendations on a variety of environmental issues;
- Design and implement large-scale environmental outreach projects including social media campaigns and public workshops
- Utilize computer systems to enter, analyze, and retrieve data;
- Interpret and apply applicable codes and ordinances;
- Exercise sound judgment and common sense;
- Learn to apply procedures, techniques, and interpret and make decisions related to job duties.
- Establish and maintain cooperative relations with those contacted in the course of work.
- Communicate clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
- Read, understand, interpret and apply laws, policies, rules, contracts, guidelines and professional practices;
- Speak clearly and effectively before diverse audiences and groups and work collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders, contractors, and the public.
Experience and Training Experience: Six months of experience in environmental policy, environmental outreach, resource management, communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience with water efficiency programs sustainability, communications, community planning, project management, public administration, environmental compliance, water user interface, commercial irrigation management, or other related environmental regulations, is highly desirable. Training: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public policy, public administration, environmental studies, water or environmental policy, resource management, data management, or a related field. License/Certificates: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license.ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II In addition to the qualifications for Environmental Specialist I: Knowledge of:
- Advanced knowledge of water resource management practices.
- Advanced knowledge of research methods, statistical data analysis, and report preparation.
- Advanced knowledge of key developing regional, state and federal environmental issues, legislation and regulations.
- Advanced coordinating work with consultants, intergovernmental agencies and/or stakeholders.
- Applicable city municipal codes.
Ability to:
- Develop and implement community outreach and engagement programs promoting water use efficiency principles, practices, and requirements through the Green Oceanside campaign;
- Communicate with the public in a clear, patient and respectful manner;
- Plan, schedule and organize work including mandatory compliance workloads, with a high degree of independence of action;
- Conduct research and prepare complete and accurate analyses, reports
- and recommendations on a variety of issues;
- Prepare clear, concise and decisive oral and written reports as required for review by executive City staff, committees, commissions and the City Council;
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of City staff, other governmental agencies, and the general public;
- Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the diversity of the community.
Experience and Training Experience: Two years of increasingly responsible experience in environmental policy, environmental studies, resource management, communications, public administration, or related field.Experience working with water efficiency and conservation management and regulations, water user interface, commercial irrigation management communications, community planning, project management, public administration, or other related environmental regulations is highly desirable. Training: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public policy, public administration, environmental studies, water or environmental policy, resource management, data management, communications or a related field. License/Certificates: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Depending on assignment, the Environmental Specialist II position highly desires the possession of or the ability to obtain, within one year of date of hire, one of the following certifications:
- Water Use Efficiency Practitioner Certification (AWWA)
- Water Audit Validator Certificate (AWWA)
Working Conditions and Selection ProcessEnvironmental Conditions: Office and field environment; travel from site to site; extensive public contact; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, electrical energy, radiant energy, toxic materials, and inclement weather conditions; work in or with water, stormwater/urban runoff, and wastewater; exposure to chemical materials and/or hazardous waste in public rights of way.Physical Conditions: Essential functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time; physical condition necessary for walking/hiking into waterway areas with unstable ground surfaces while carrying equipment not exceeding 30 lbs.; exposure to computer screens, speaking and hearing to exchange information; visual acuity to read and interpret specifications and regulations. Selection Process: All applications will be reviewed and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. The process may include any combination of written examination, oral board examination, and/or skills assessment to further evaluate job-related qualifications. Candidates who successfully complete the examination process will be placed on the eligibility list and will remain eligible for employment consideration for a minimum of six months.Note: Prospective employees will undergo, and must successfully pass, a background reference check (including fingerprinting) and a medical examination. Drug screening may be required.RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS BUT MAY BE ATTACHED.CANDIDATES WHO REQUIRE A REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS SHOULD STATE THEIR NEEDS IN WRITING WHEN SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION.THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.CITY OF OCEANSIDEManagement Employees of the City of Oceanside (Non-Safety)Benefit SummaryThe following is a highlight of benefitsRetirement Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS)
- Employees hired after January 1, 2013 are subject to the State laws of PEPRA in regard to retirement benefits. Each individual's benefits may differ. Consult with Employee Benefits for further details
- Third Level 1959 Survivor Credit
- Survivor Continuation option
Additional Retirement Credit Purchase Options
- Buy additional Service Retirement Credit
- Service Credit for unused Sick Leave
- Buy additional Military Service Credit
Health InsuranceMedical:
- Kaiser HMO
- Blue Shield HMO
- Blue Shield PPO
Dental
- Delta Preferred Option (DPO)
- Delta Care USA (DHMO)
Vision:
- Vision Service Plan (VSP)
Pre-Tax BenefitsHealth benefits are offered on a pre-tax basis and employees cannot add or delete coverage or benefits unless a qualifying event has occurred.Employee Assistance Program (EAP)The Anthem EAP is paid for by the City.
- Available to all members of your household
- 6 free confidential counseling visits per incident
- Self-service support online or by phone
Disability and Life InsurancesThe STD/LTD/LIFE and AD&D ING premiums are paid for by City.Short-Term Disability (STD) Insurance:
- First 90 days - benefits paid at 55% of weekly salary to a maximum weekly benefit of $700 for non-work related disability only
- Seven day waiting period unless hospitalized
- All sick leave must be exhausted before STD is used
Long-Term Disability Insurance:
- After 90 days - benefits paid at 66.7% of monthly salary to a maximum monthly benefit of $6,000 for any disability
Life and AD&D Insurance:
- 1 times annual base salary; minimum of $30,000 and maximum of $200,000 of Basic Life & AD&D
Voluntary BenefitsBenefits are employee paid.Supplemental Life Insurance through Voya:
- Premiums are determined by age
- Purchased up to a maximum $500,000 for employees
- Spousal coverage up to the employee amount
- Dependent coverage up to $10,000
Flexible Spending Accounts through BCC:
- Utilizes a debit card as a form of payment
- Health Care Spending Account - maximum annual deferral is $2,850
- Dependent Care Spending Account - maximum annual deferral is $5,000
Deferred Compensation - 457 and Roth IRA through Mission Square:
- 457 - Maximum annual pre/post-taxed amount is $22,500 for 2023; over age 50 may contribute an additional $7,500
- Roth IRA - Maximum post-taxed amount is $6,500; over age 50 may contribute an additional $1,000
Hyatt Legal
- Telephone and office consultations are avialable for an unlimited number fo personal legal matters with an attorney of your choice.
GotZoom Student Loan Relief
- Provides a no-obligation benefit analysis for federal student loans to identify, maximize and enroll employees into Federal Loan Repayment and Forgiveness Programs.
ScholarShare 529
- An easy to manage plan that helps make the most of your or a designated beneficiary's college savings with tax benefits.
Leave BenefitsVacation:All accurals are based on 80 hours in a paid status 1 - 5 years: 3.58 hours6 - 10 years: 5.12 hours11 - 15 years: 6.65 hours16+ years: 8.19 hoursMaximum accrual:
- 360 hours for those hired before 7/1/95
- 300 hours for those hired 7/1/95 or after
Holidays:
- New Years' Day
- Martin Luther King Jr Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Veterans' Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Friday after Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- 48 hours Floating Holidays per fiscal year
- Exempt employees receive 50 hours of Executive leave per fiscal year
Sick Leave: Accrual: 12 days per yearMax accrual: UnlimitedAnnual pay off: Up to 50% based on annual usageSick Leave pay off at separation:
- Sick leave paid out depends on years of service and whether an employee retires or terminates
Bereavement Leave:
- Three days for death of employee's immediate family member
- Two additional days may be charged to sick leave upon approval
Tuition ReimbursementUp to $2,000 per fiscal yearCertification PayDetermined by the head of the department, a $0.87 per hour will be given to employees with certain State of California Certifications on an as needed basis. Bilingual and Notary Pay Bilingual: $1.73 per hour for eligible employeesNotary: $.58 per hour for eligible employeesSafety ShoesThe City will provide reimbursement up to $150 towards the purchase price of safety shoes to employees who are required to wear such shoes on the job.UniformsThe City will provide an annual uniform allowance, for any public safety employee required to wear one, in the amount of $475.Term of Compensation PlanEffective July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2024This is a summary of available benefits. It is not intended to provide full details of all programs. The appropriate Memorandum of Understanding, Compensation Plan and/or Benefit Plan Documents will govern any discrepancies and provide program specifics.01 Which position are you applying for? Note that Environmental Specialist I requires 6+ months of experience, while Environmental Specialist II requires 2+ years of experience.
- Environmental Specialist I
- Environmental Specialist II
02 2. Do you possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field? If No, you do not qualify for this position. Please upload a copy of your degree.
- Bachelor's Degree
- Bachelor's and Master's Degree
- None
03 Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license
04 4. How many years of experience do you possess in environmental policy, environmental outreach, resource management?
- Less than 6 months
- 1 Year
- 2 Years
- 3+ Years
05 Describe any experience in water use efficiency or conservation. Include employer/agency, dates of employment (From-To), your position title, and the duties you performed. 06 List any prior municipal or government experience including dates and agencies. 07 List certifications or training courses you have completed in environmental studies, resource management, water resources, sustainability, communications, community planning, project management, public administration, or related fields. 08 Describe your experience in public-facing community outreach, mass communication, social media, and customer service. Include your role(s), tasks, level of responsibility, and any specific content that you drafted or produced such as fliers, social media, website content, or press releases. Describe your experience using the terms none, minimal, moderate, or extensive. 09 Describe your experience working with data management systems including creating spreadsheets and using them to analyze data. Use the terms none, minimal, moderate, or extensive experience for each. Please include dates and organizations. 10 Please list any additional computer programs applications you are familiar with and indicate your proficiency level for each as Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced. Include Microsoft Office products such as Word, Outlook and Excel, and design programs such as Canva, iMovie, InDesign, and Publisher. 11 Describe your understanding of the current water supply issues, the challenges Southern California is facing, and your thoughts on ways to engage the public in managing water more efficiently. 12 CERTIFICATE OF APPLICANT: I certify that all statements and information provided in this application and any attachments are true, and I understand that any false or misleading statements or omissions of material facts may forfeit right to employment considerations by the City of Oceanside.
Required Question
