Watershed Projects Manager

About the Team

The Office of Sustainability and Environmental Management (OSEM) within the Department of Environmental Services (DES) manages Arlington County's regulatory and stewardship programs focused on water quality, stream health, and climate resiliency. The team is dedicated to implementing comprehensive stormwater management and sustainability initiatives that protect local waterways and ensure compliance with critical environmental permits.

About the Role

The Watershed Projects Manager serves as a pivotal link in the County's mission to enhance watershed health through capital improvement projects. This role involves collaborating with internal and external design teams, construction managers, and outreach specialists to identify, plan, and execute projects such as stream restoration, outfall repairs, and green stormwater infrastructure. The position is designed for a professional who is equally comfortable working in an office or navigating the field, requiring a balance of technical oversight and community engagement.

Day-to-day, you will manage complex projects with budgets reaching several million dollars, coordinating the journey from concept design through construction. You will review development plans to ensure compliance with the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance, monitor post-construction vegetation establishment, and provide technical assistance to residents and contractors regarding riparian buffer management. Success in this role requires strong collaborative problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate the complexities of implementing water quality improvements in an urban environment.

Hiring Process

Arlington County requires a thorough and complete application. Please note that while a resume is required, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

To apply, you must:

• Thoroughly complete every section of the application, including prior job responsibilities and supplemental questions.
• Attach a resume that details your background and experience.
• Attach a letter of interest explaining how your background has prepared you for this position.
• Provide specific responses to supplemental questions; do not write "see resume" as a response.

The selection process includes a pre-employment background check, which covers criminal records, driving records, education, professional licensure, and credit history. A valid driver's license is required, or the ability to use alternative transportation methods to reach various worksites.

Culture and Commitment

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all its services, activities, and programs. The team values employees who bring strong interpersonal and communication skills to foster a collaborative environment. The role offers a flexible work schedule with telework opportunities, though the nature of the work requires attendance at occasional evening and weekend events and the physical ability to navigate steep slopes and active construction sites.