The Position

The Natural Systems Enhancement and Stewardship (NSES) Director leads and directs the accomplishment of Clean Water Services (CWS) vision, mission, strategic initiatives, and overall goals as they relate to an integrated watershed management strategy, including stewardship initiatives; capital natural systems projects for ecological enhancement; system improvements; water resources management programs; development of strategies which bring together the resources and partnerships needed to create a healthy and resilient watershed; and the development of programs that preserve and protect natural systems.

Reporting to the Chief Utility Operations Officer, the Director provides strategic assistance in developing the green ecosystem infrastructure needed to implement the integrated watershed management strategy, including physical and programmatic elements. The NSES Director establishes and manages the department's annual operating and capital budgets, develops and modifies the department's priorities, goals, and objectives, and manages the implementation of department initiatives. Specifically, the Director monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods while ensuring organizational alignment and cross-departmental collaboration.

The NSES Director creates and maintains a positive, engaged, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture. The Director collaborates with staff to further develop their understanding and recognition of diversity in the workplace and fosters multidisciplinary and integrated team approaches to the work. The NSES Director manages three direct reports, including the Landscape Division Manager, Project Delivery Division Manager, and Stewardship Services Division Manager, and works with their management team to oversee staff development and performance.

The NSES Director has detailed knowledge of water resources management issues and systems and brings direct experience in natural resources and watershed management. The successful candidate has a strong financial mindset and easily articulates the cost and budget implications of ongoing departmental needs. The Director is deeply committed to creating a healthy watershed and protecting our natural resources and understands the importance of integrating NSES activities with the overall mission of CWS.

With a strong background in change management, the successful candidate promotes a forward-thinking culture that embraces change and emerging natural resources practices. The Director maintains an open mind and multi-tasks with ease, shifting gears quickly to prioritize and balance workloads and resource needs to meet project demands. It is essential for the NSES Director to thoughtfully identify opportunities and alternative solutions and implement changes that support a departmental culture built on trust and mutual respect.

Compensation and Benefits

The expected hiring range is $173,848 - $201,298 annually, depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package. Employees are our greatest asset and play a key role in the success of Clean Water Services. In order to attract and retain a highly-skilled, diverse workforce, and recognize the dedication our employees demonstrate each and every day, we offer comprehensive benefits as part of a total compensation package. Benefits include medical, dental and vision, retirement, life insurance, voluntary supplemental coverages, HRA deposits, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, goal sharing bonus, participation in the Public Employees Retirement System with CWS contributing on behalf of the employee the mandatory 6% employee contribution, and a variety of employee discounts such as the annual TriMet pass and FirstNet subscriber cell phone plan. Full details can be viewed here.

How to Apply

Be a part of our innovative team working together to protect public health and the environment. Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. For full consideration, please apply by Monday, October 2, 2023.

Qualifications

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. A typical way of obtaining the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is a minimum of five years’ experience in the planning and management of natural resources, watershed and/or physical systems and five years of successful people management coupled with two years’ experience in a regulatory environment. Prior experience driving organizational change within a managerial role is essential. Water quality policy development experience is desired.

Customarily, candidates possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental sciences, biology/chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental law, or related field. Upon selection, candidates must possess and maintain a valid State-issued driver’s license.