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  • Water Resources Engineer

    Salinas, California United States Monterey County Human Resources Full Time $6,915.31 - $9,445.11 Monthly Dec 24, 2025
    Monterey County Human Resources Employer:

    Monterey County Human Resources

    Monterey County Statement  Monterey County was founded in 1850 and is governed by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors. It is located on the beautiful Central Coast and is the longest county in California stretching 105 miles from the Santa Clara County border South to San Luis Obispo County.  Monterey County provides a full range of services to the community through its 26 departments and 5,000 plus employees.  As an employer, Monterey County is diverse and inclusive, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We aspire to hire employees who will contribute to the County’s mission to excel at providing quality services for the benefit all Monterey County residents while developing, maintaining, and enhancing the resources of the region.  The County offers a great benefits package and provides the opportunity to work with amazing colleagues who support and promote a safe, healthy and prosperous community for all.  Monterey County is rich in coastal lands and agricultural fields and is also known as the Salad Bowl of the World.  Monterey County is the best place to work and prides itself on being the employer of choice. The Right Career, Right Here! For more information please visit our website Please visit our Facebook page.

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    Job Description

    Position Description


    Open until filled
    Priority Screening January 23, 2026

    Exam: 25/41E11/12JL

    The County of Monterey is committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and eligible military spouses and awards veterans’ preference points for this recruitment. To learn more about the eligibility requirements and the process, be sure to read the Hiring Preference for Veterans and Eligible Military Spouses section located towards the end of this job flier.

    The Monterey County Water Resources Agency (MCWRA) is recruiting for the position of Water Resources Engineer.

    Agency Summary

    Prior to its formal establishment in 1991, the Monterey County Water Resources Agency (MCWRA) was the Monterey County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, established in 1947 and organized as a division of the Public Works Department of Monterey County. MCWRA provides services related to the control of flood and storm waters in Monterey County, conservation, protection of water quality, reclamation of water, and the exchange of water. Fundamental to the agency’s mission to sustainably manage water resources while minimizing impacts from flooding, MCWRA owns and operates two dams on principal tributaries to the Salinas River (Nacimiento and San Antonio), along with the associated reservoirs. The Agency also owns a recycled water irrigation distribution system for agricultural users in the farmland surrounding Castroville, CA. A handful of other water conveyance and diversion facilities are also under the Agency’s management.

    The Agency’s primary objective is to manage water resources throughout the County with a concentration in the Salinas Valley. The Agency collaborates and works with many other public agencies such as the Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency, Monterey One Water, and other local, state and federal agencies.

    The Ideal Candidate

    The ideal candidate for the Water Resources Engineer position in the Operations Section will have a strong background in construction, repair, and maintenance of various water resource-related facilities such as reservoirs, ponds, pipelines, valves, pump stations, groundwater wells, culverts, and earthen dams, and channels. This position will be primarily working on the Water Resources Agency Water Recycling Projects that include the Castroville Seawater Intrusion Project and the Salinas River Diversion Facility. Experience working on Recycled Water Projects or other pipeline distribution systems is desired but not required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate integrity, flexibility, and adaptability, navigating complex situations with professionalism and poise. They will be able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and remain organized to complete multiple projects concurrently. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in both an office setting and, more importantly, being outdoors doing field work for inspections, system monitoring, construction projects and repair oversight, or minor surveying work. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with a variety of people, including other staff within the Agency, consultants (environmental, engineering, construction), technicians, field maintenance staff, and regulatory or cooperative agency staff.

    The Eligible List established by this recruitment process may be used County-wide to fill current and future vacancies on a regular full-time, part-time, or temporary basis.

    Examples of Duties

    • Performs a variety of engineering duties in the planning, design review, development, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Agency’s flood control, water quality, and water production, storage, treatment and distribution facilities and systems; ensures adherence to professional standards, codes and Agency specifications
    • Conducts various engineering studies, investigations and analyses; participates in the preparation of reports regarding issues such as the environmental, hydraulic, geotechnical, seismic, hydrologic, geomorphic, water quality, and treatment process aspects of water supply and flood control facilities and sites
    • Assists in the preparation of engineering specifications, drawings, sketches, cost estimates, and other supporting documentation for proposed engineering projects; reviews drawings, plans, and other work submitted by external consultants, engineers, contractors, and developers for conformance with professional codes, standards, and Agency specifications; drafts and prepares technical and administrative correspondence
    • Conducts field work involving engineering studies related to the research, planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of flood control and water supply facilities such as channels, culverts, bridges, roads, retaining walls, pipelines, dams, treatment distribution, fishways and appurtenant structures
    • Participates in and may coordinate regulatory or construction permit activities and related projects with other Agency staff, outside agencies and consultants ensuring that deadlines, standards and specifications are met appropriately
    • Provides engineering support to Agency construction projects and contractors; assists in the inspection of contractor installations as necessary; provides technical support during project construction, including design changes, submittal review, request for information from contractors, interpretation of contract documents and assistance with change orders; prepares and reviews construction contract documents as assigned
    • Develops and maintains various databases and computer files; uses engineering software or programs to solve specific engineering problems
    • Uses a variety of office and field equipment, such as hydrological measuring devices, surveying equipment, calculators, computers, and related software used in Water Resource engineering
    • Uses a variety of office and field equipment, such as hydrological measuring devices, surveying equipment, calculators, computers, and related software used in Water Resource engineering
    • Confers with Agency staff, contractors, the public, and other agencies or organizations as needed regarding assigned work
    • Reviews statutes and regulations; interprets and applies the regulations with respect to Agency compliance; assists in compliance strategies for regulations; may analyze proposed regulations
    To view the complete classification description, please visit the County of Monterey website: Water Resources Engineer

    THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
    Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
    Working knowledge of:
    • Principles and practices of hydrology and civil engineering with emphasis on flood control, water quality, and water supply, storage, treatment and distribution systems and facilities
    • Hydrology and engineering math principles; advanced mathematics, including algebra, trigonometry and statistics; nomenclature, symbols, methods, practices, techniques, and instruments used in Water Resource management and planning; methods and techniques of statistical analysis
    • Construction materials, methods, testing, specifications, codes and equipment
    • Drafting techniques, nomenclature, symbols, methods & instruments used in field and office engineering work
    • Computer applications, languages and their engineering applications
    • Principles, practices, and theory of hydrogeology and water quality
    • Terminology, methods, practices and techniques used in technical engineering report preparation
    • Civil engineering theory and design concepts for flood control/hydraulic structures, buildings, bridges, pipelines, dams and water treatment plants
    Some knowledge of:
    • Contract administration, grants and project budget reports, contract compliance review for contract specification adherence
    • Geotechnical applications in the design of levees, earthfill dams, soil stability analysis, groundwater quality monitoring and contamination investigation and cleanup
    • Principles and practices of project scheduling and management including work plans and budgets
    • Construction cost estimating principles and practices
    • Requirements for safe construction methods and performance of operations and maintenance (e.g. close space regulations)
    Skill and ability to:
    • Apply engineering principles and techniques to evaluate and solve difficult water resource and civil engineering problems
    • Read, understand and interpret and effectively communicate complex technical information, such as engineering data, maps, survey notes, legal descriptions and other materials
    • Independently perform detailed analysis of designs, specifications, and plans.
    • Perform complex engineering and mathematical calculations
    • Plan, assign and check the work of subordinate staff and consultants/contractors
    • Exercise sound, independent judgment in managing assigned projects
    • Develop and maintain close working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, such as the public, management, and co-workers
    • Deal tactfully and effectively with the public, staff, other agencies, engineering firms, contractors, etc.
    • Provide excellent and courteous customer service
    • Prepare and/or review reports, such as environmental impact reports, data, and correspondence.
    • Maintain accurate data and records
    • Operate computer equipment and use computerized mapping, drawing, and analysis software, and other related software programs
    • Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to prepare reports and correspondence, and make presentations before groups for the purpose of explaining complex data
    • Prepare scopes of work, resource allocation, work scheduling, and completion timelines for assigned work and projects


    Examples of Experience/Education/Training

    Any combination of training, education and/or experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities and required conditions of employment is qualifying. An example of a way these requirements might be acquired is:
    Experience :
    Two years of experience in engineering, hydrology, geology, hydrogeology, or a closely related field
    AND
    Education :
    Equivalent to completion of a Bachelor’s degree in water resources, civil engineering, or a closely related discipline from an accredited college program
    OR
    Certification :
    Possession of a valid California Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certificate with two years of associated professional engineering experience

    Additional Information

    CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
    The required conditions of employment include, but are not limited to the following:
    • Possess and a valid California Class C drivers license at the time of appointment and possess and maintain a satisfactory driving record or provide evidence of suitable transportation which is approved by the appointing authority.
    • Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during times of disaster and/or emergency.
    BENEFITS
    The County of Monterey offers an excellent benefits package. Please visit our website to view the Unit J Benefit Summery Sheet . This information is not legally binding, nor does it serve as a contract. The benefits listed in the Monterey County Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) prevail over this listing.

    NOTES
    • As a condition of employment, prospective employees may be required to submit to a background review which may include a review of information concerning present and/or prior employment, driving record, and record of any criminal convictions.
    • Employment is contingent upon acceptable documentation verifying identity and authorization for employment in the U.S.; a list of acceptable documents is available on the USCIS Form I-9.
    • If you are hired into this classification in a temporary position, your rate of pay will be hourly, and you will not be eligible for the benefits listed in the summary.

    Application and Selection Procedures
    Apply On-Line at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/montereycounty
    Priority Screening January 23, 2026 or
    Hard copy applications may be obtained from and submitted during normal business hours
    Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM by contacting:
    Jovany Luna, Supervising Human Resources Analyst
    Attn: Human Resources
    168 W. Alisal Street, 3rd Floor
    Salinas, CA 93901
    Phone: (831) 755-5395 or Email: lunacorreaj@countyofmonterey.gov

    The selection process is tentative, and applicants will be notified if changes are made. To assess applicants' possession of required qualifications, the examination process may include an oral examination, pre-examination exercises, performance examination, and/or written examination. The competitive examination process includes submittal of required application materials. A complete application package will include:
    • A completed County of Monterey Employment Application
    • Responses to the Supplemental Questions

    Applicants who fail to provide all required materials by the final filing deadline will not be considered. Resumes, cover letters, letters of interest, and other correspondence will not be accepted as a substitute for required application materials. All required application materials will be competitively evaluated. Those applicants that are determined to be the most appropriately qualified will be invited to participate further in the selection process.

    HIRING PREFERENCE FOR VETERANS AND ELIGIBLE MILITARY SPOUSES

    The County of Monterey is committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and eligible military spouses (i.e., surviving spouses of veterans, spouses of totally disabled veterans, and spouses of active-duty service members) and awards veterans’ preference points for this recruitment. To obtain a Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application, please visit the Human Resources website or click on the following link: Click Here to View the Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application

    To apply for veterans’ preference points, veterans or eligible military spouses must complete and email a Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application with supporting documentation of their eligibility by the priority screen date to VeteransPreferencePoints@countyofmonterey.gov

    EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
    Monterey County is a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer. The County seeks candidates who can make contributions in an environment of cultural and ethnic diversity. Monterey County is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Jovany Luna, Supervising Human Resources Analyst, at (831) 755-5395 or lunacorreaj@countyofmonterey.gov

    http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-a-h/human-resources/human-resources/benefits/benefit-summary-sheet

    Closing Date/Time: Continuous

    Special Instructions

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Exploring Opportunities in Government Natural Resource Jobs

Exploring Opportunities in Government Natural Resource Jobs

Introduction to Government Natural Resource Jobs

Government natural resource jobs offer diverse and rewarding careers focused on managing and conserving the planet’s natural and cultural resources. These jobs contribute to sustainability and protect the environment for future generations. By working in roles like wildlife management, invasive species control, and cultural resource conservation, government employees help maintain the health and biodiversity of natural ecosystems.

Importance of Natural Resource Management

Natural resource management is critical for supporting wildlife, preventing degradation, and ensuring sustainable use of resources like forests and water. Careers in this field provide opportunities to balance human needs with environmental protection. In particular, jobs in conservation help safeguard biodiversity and protect natural areas for recreation, cultural value, and future sustainability.

Career Opportunities in Government Agencies

Working for government agencies in natural resource jobs provides many career paths. Agencies such as state parks, forestry departments, and wildlife services offer full-time positions in conservation and land management, cultural resources, and fire management. Employees in these roles help protect resources and ensure that the environment and public’s needs are met.

 

Types of Government Natural Resource Jobs

Conservation and Management Careers

Conservation and management careers involve protecting natural environments, from forests to waterways. Invasive species control, habitat restoration, and environmental monitoring are key focus areas. Individuals in these roles may also participate in wildlife management and forestry programs to promote ecosystem health.

Cultural Resources and Historic Preservation

Those interested in cultural resources can pursue careers preserving historic sites, such as museums, monuments, and archaeological locations. Jobs in cultural resource management ensure that future generations can continue to learn from and enjoy these important heritage sites. Additionally, there are positions in historic preservation within federal and state agencies.

State Parks and Recreation Careers

State parks and recreation departments offer a variety of government natural resource jobs. Employees in these departments manage park lands, oversee recreational activities, and work on land conservation initiatives. These positions are ideal for those passionate about outdoor work, as they often involve hands-on tasks to maintain park safety and integrity.

 

Key Job Roles and Responsibilities

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Conservation and Management Roles

Natural resource jobs in conservation and management include several vital responsibilities. Employees focus on invasive species control, habitat restoration, and monitoring ecosystems. Conservation workers also assist in environmental planning and work closely with government agencies to ensure sustainable land use and resource protection.

  • Invasive Species Control: Preventing and removing non-native species from environments to preserve natural ecosystems.
  • Habitat Restoration: Rebuilding and protecting areas damaged by human activity or natural events.
  • Environmental Monitoring: Regularly assessing the health of natural ecosystems to guide conservation efforts.

Fire Management and Forestry Careers

Forestry and fire management are also critical areas of government natural resource jobs. These roles focus on forest conservation, wildland fire prevention, and emergency response planning. Jobs include forest management, fire suppression, and wildfire risk assessment, all vital to protecting public lands.

  • Forestry Management: Ensuring that forest areas are sustainably maintained.
  • Fire Management: Planning and executing fire suppression and prevention efforts to protect natural resources.
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Career Development and Advancement

Training and Professional Development

Government agencies provide extensive training and professional development opportunities to help employees advance their careers. These programs cover areas like wildlife management, forestry management, and environmental monitoring, enabling employees to specialize in their chosen fields. Advanced fire management and cultural resource training help professionals stay at the forefront of the industry.

Career Advancement in Natural Resource Jobs

Many government natural resource jobs offer clear paths for career advancement. Employees can grow into management positions overseeing larger teams or develop specialized skills in environmental monitoring, cultural resources, or fire management. This upward mobility, combined with comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities, makes government work in this sector highly attractive.

 

Benefits and Perks of Working in Government Natural Resources

Unique Benefits and Compensation

Government natural resource employees enjoy several benefits beyond competitive salaries. These jobs often offer paid holidays, generous health care packages, and full-time positions with retirement plans. Additionally, employees gain personal satisfaction by making a positive impact on the environment and society at large.

  • Paid Holidays: Government employees enjoy paid time off, contributing to a good work-life balance.
  • Competitive Salaries: Government roles often come with competitive pay that increases with experience.
  • Opportunities for Career Development: Continuous professional training helps employees grow within the organization.

Working Outdoors and in Diverse Environments

One of the biggest draws of government natural resource jobs is the opportunity to work outdoors. Employees may be involved in protecting cultural resources or managing state parks, offering the chance to engage with nature while performing meaningful work. These positions are perfect for individuals who enjoy working in dynamic, natural settings.

 

How to Get Started in Government Natural Resource Careers

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Job Search and Application Process

Searching for government natural resource jobs can be done through multiple avenues. Candidates can visit government websites, explore job boards, or apply through career sites dedicated to environmental and conservation work. Building a strong resume and networking with professionals in the field can enhance a job seeker’s chances of securing a position.

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Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

Networking is critical for career advancement in government natural resources. Attending conferences, workshops, and industry events allows professionals to stay informed about the latest developments and connect with peers. Job seekers can build a robust professional network and stay informed about job openings by joining professional organizations dedicated to conservation, wildlife management, and cultural resources.

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