Water Conservation Project Specialist na City of Hillsboro, OR

About the Department

About this Opportunity 

Join the City of Hillsboro’s Water Department as a Water Conservation Project Specialist and help shape the future of sustainable water management. In this key role, you’ll analyze water use data, collaborate with residents and businesses, support regulatory compliance initiatives, and lead public outreach campaigns that promote responsible water use. This position offers an exciting opportunity to drive impactful environmental change, strengthen community engagement, and contribute to Hillsboro Water’s reputation as a regional leader in resource management and forward-thinking policy.

What You Will Be Doing

In this role, you will play a key part in advancing Hillsboro Water’s conservation and sustainability efforts. Your work will combine data analysis, community engagement, and program implementation to help customers use water more efficiently and support long-term resource management goals.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Supporting the development and implementation of water conservation programs and initiatives for residential, commercial, and municipal customers.
• Conducing water-use audits and site evaluations to identify conservation opportunities and recommend efficiency improvements to customers.
• Analyzing water consumption data to identify trends, measure program effectiveness, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Creating and delivering educational materials, workshops, presentations, and outreach campaigns to promote water-saving practices.
• Collaborating with internal departments, regional partners, and community stakeholders to align conservation goals and resources.
• Supporting compliance with state and regional water conservation regulations, policies, and reporting requirements.
• Conducting research and applying for grants and funding opportunities to support conservation projects.
• Monitoring and evaluating the performance of conservation programs, preparing reports and recommendations for program enhancement.
• Researching industry best practices, emerging technologies, and policy developments in water conservation and sustainability.
• Coordinating event participation and representing the City of Hillsboro Water Department at public events, community meetings, and professional conferences.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate combines technical expertise in water conservation with strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills to effectively serve Hillsboro’s community and advance sustainability goals.

Key qualities and skills include:

• Water Conservation Expertise: Knowledge of conservation principles, techniques, and technologies across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Proficient in analyzing and interpreting water use data and creating actionable reports.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiar with applicable local, state, and federal water conservation laws and policies.
• Project & Time Management: Capable of managing multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Communication: Clearly conveys information to diverse audiences; skilled in public speaking and outreach.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Builds strong professional relationships and values input from others.
• Customer & Community-Engagement: Listens actively and responds respectfully, with a focus on equity and inclusion.
• Creative Problem Solving: Approaches challenges with innovation and flexibility.
• Initiative and Follow through: Takes initiative, manages multiple priorities independently, and ensures strong follow-through.
• Environmental Stewardship: Passionate about sustainability and responsible water stewardship.

Current / Upcoming Projects: 

• Water Management and Conservation Plan (WMCP) Updates: Assist in updating the Water Management Conservation Plans to align with regulatory requirements and long-term water sustainability goals, ensuring Hillsboro and the Joint Water Commission continues to meet state mandates and community needs.
• Willamette Water Supply Program Integration: Support the rollout of conservation initiatives related to the new Willamette Water Supply Program, helping to ensure a smooth transition and public understanding of this major infrastructure investment.
• Water Use Analytics Software: Support the implementation and testing of a new water use analytical software platform to increase monitoring and reporting of water use trends in the City. 
• Conservation Program Evaluation: Support the evaluation of the Water Conservation Program’s education, outreach and water efficiency rebate programs for opportunities to improve equity, community engagement, and impact. 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Water Resources, Sustainability, Public Administration, or a closely related field; and three years of related experience in the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

License(s) & Certifications

• Valid, current Driver’s License and safe driving record

Other Requirements:

• Ability to occasionally work evenings and weekends for community events or outreach activities.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and serving a diverse community.

Recruitment Timeline

Note: Timelines subject to change based on City needs. 

Application Instructions

To ensure your application receives full consideration, please complete all sections of the online application thoroughly. Resumes will not be accepted and should not be submitted in place of the completed application.

• Include detailed information about your work experience, education, and relevant qualifications directly in the application. Taking the time to provide complete and accurate information helps the review panel fully understand your background and experience.
• Please answer all supplemental questions thoughtfully and thoroughly. Your responses provide valuable insight into your qualifications, experience, and help the hiring manager better understand how your background aligns with the needs of the position.
• Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Only Veterans’ Preference documents (if applicable) will be reviewed as attachments.

Why Work For Hillsboro?

At the City of Hillsboro, we’re committed to supporting employees with a comprehensive package of benefits and resources designed to promote health, well-being, and growth.

When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive pay with City contributions to PERS retirement
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off for vacation, sick leave, holidays, and more
• Deferred compensation match and HRA VEBA contributions to boost your future savings
• City-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• Extra perks like bilingual pay incentives and wellness reimbursements
• Free TriMet annual Hop pass and SHARC recreation access for you and your family
• Paid time off to volunteer in the community through Hillsboro Helps
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness

To learn more about our robust benefits package, please click here.

Commitment to Equity

At the City of Hillsboro, we believe that hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.