Environmental Analyst I

The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority is hiring an Environmental Analyst I to conduct inspections of various sites for contamination affecting water supply. Responsibilities include developing educational programs, monitoring environmental integrity, initiating remedial actions, and collaborating with stakeholders. The role emphasizes environmental stewardship and community service, ensuring sustainable water resources for nearly 430,000 consumers in Connecticut.
About the RWA:

At the South-Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA), we provide more than just water—we deliver life-sustaining resources to nearly 430,000 consumers every day. As a nonprofit public corporation driven by our commitment to excellence and community, we take pride in being responsible stewards of over 28,000 acres of watershed land, ensuring the sustainability of our environment for future generations. Guided by the principles of Conscious Capitalism, we believe in the power of business to make a positive impact on the region we serve.

When you join RWA, you have more than a job, you have a purpose and will become part of a team that values integrity, environmental stewardship, and community service. You’ll work with purpose, knowing that every drop of water we deliver makes a difference, and that our customers trust us to uphold the highest standards of reliability, sustainability, and care.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Environmental Analyst conducts public water supply watershed and aquifer inspections of industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural and development sites to identify and report existing or potential sources of contamination that could affect water supply sources. Assess/resolve complex site specific and watershed/aquifer-wide impairments on behalf of RWA in partnership with various stakeholders including enforcement agencies, business, and residential property owners. Provide technical support to the raw water monitoring program, including stream and reservoir water quality sampling and measurements. Develop baseline understanding of RWA’s sources of supply and emerging water quality priorities. Participate in outreach and educational opportunities both internal and external to the organization.

Responsibilities:
• Prepare, develop, and implement programs in consultation with the Environmental Planning Manager to educate local officials and the public at large about watershed and aquifer protection.
• Conduct watershed inspections of industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural and development sites; identify sources of contamination; recommend and oversee appropriate correction measures in consultation with municipal and state agencies.
• Initiate remedial actions at violation sites by notifying property and/or business owners, and regulatory agencies as needed, of site violation(s). Follow up to ensure action is taken.
• Monitor environmental management and integrity of RWA owned sites and projects.
• Assist with hazardous spill response on RWA water supply watersheds/aquifers and RWA facilities/property. Provide follow up with state and local agencies regarding hazardous materials spills as necessary.
• Develop working relationships with municipal and state personnel charged with enforcing environmental regulations and first responders in towns within RWA water supply watersheds and aquifers.
• Work with others from RWA to research, develop and implement programs, policies, and studies to protect and enhance water quality and the quantity of RWA source of supply.
• Maintain up-to-date files and records of inspections, spills, water quality incidents, and water quality investigations; prepare and file the annual watershed inspection report to the CT Department of Public Health.
• Provide technical assistance to other departments on environmental issues.
• Give presentations and conduct tours of RWA land and facilities for RWA outreach and public education activities.
• Assist with field monitoring and sample collection of surface and groundwater sources.
• Maintain working knowledge of RWA sources of supply, monitoring protocols, sampling equipment, emerging contaminants, and LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System).
• Assist with other departmental and RWA programs as needed.
• Conduct work in accordance with all RWA safety policies. Enforce those policies with outside consultants and contractors.
• Other duties as necessary to accomplish the mission, vision, and values of our organization.
• Hybrid position (1-2 days) after 4-6 months of employment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Educational Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resources, sanitary engineering, or related field.

Experience/Skills/Abilities:
• Two years of environmental compliance field inspections of facilities; one-year identifying public water supply source related violations preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Exceptional interpersonal skills.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications. Use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) preferred.
• Must have or be able to obtain OSHA 40-hour Emergency Response Training.
• Working knowledge of surface and groundwater hydrology, watershed and groundwater science, limnology, water quality, and aquatic biology and chemistry.
• Understanding of the effects human activity has on the natural environment.
• Ability to work in aquatic and terrestrial environments under adverse conditions.
• Ability to operate watercraft and follow safe boating practices (Possession of, or ability to obtain, CT boating license)
• Lift, carry and deploy heavy field equipment; utilize water quality instrumentation, drive pickup truck with trailer, prolonged sitting.

Why Join the RWA?
• Be part of a forward-thinking organization that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Enjoy opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Competitive benefits package

The RWA’s comprehensive benefits package includes:
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401k and tuition reimbursement plans
• Wellness Program & Incentives

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (SCCRWA) will not discriminate or permit discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, intellectual disability, mental disability or physical disability including, but not limited to, blindness, (unless such disability, even with reasonable accommodation, prevents the applicant from being able to perform the work involved), or in any manner prohibited by the laws of the United States or of the State of Connecticut. Further SCCRWA will not retaliate against or condone retaliation against any person or group of persons who oppose actions, treatment or conduct that they believe to be discriminatory.