Environmental Monitoring Program Manager I

Environmental Monitoring Program Manager

Ready to make a measurable impact? Join the City of Salem and lead innovative environmental monitoring efforts that keep our community safe and sustainable. Make an impact: The City of Salem is hiring an Environmental Monitoring Program Manager responsible for monitoring and verifying the accuracy of wastewater flow and rainfall data, analyzing this data, and preparing and presenting reports to support decisions regarding flow system design, installation, and maintenance.

This position is within the Environmental Services Section of the Public Works Department. The successful candidate will also supervise Flow Monitoring Operators in field operations, FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) inspections, and the operation of the sanitary sewer system during wet weather high flows to reduce or eliminate the chances of sewer backups or spills at uncontrolled overflow points.

Learn and grow: In this role, you will provide direct supervision, coaching, and performance management for two staff positions, including work planning, prioritization, and professional development. You will also promote collaboration across monitoring programs by aligning practices and supporting the consistent, efficient, shared use of the data tools.

What you will do: The Environmental Monitoring Program Manager is responsible for managing and coordinating environmental monitoring programs that support wastewater system performance, regulatory compliance, and data-driven decision-making. This position manages a $500,000 annual flow monitoring contract and provides direct supervision of two professional-level staff responsible for specialized monitoring programs.

The Program Manager oversees technical monitoring initiatives, contractor performance, budgets and schedules, and plays a key role in flow monitoring analytics and geospatial data integration. The position represents the City before regulatory agencies, consultants, contractors, and stakeholder groups on environmental monitoring and compliance programs.

The Program Manager also oversees the FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) Program. As a member of the Environmental Services Section, you will help protect the natural environment by preventing sanitary sewer overflows and reducing the accumulation of fats, oils, and grease within the public sanitary sewer system.

Additional information on job responsibilities:

• Generate, review, and manage the City's wastewater flow and rainfall data using PRISM database software to support accurate reporting and informed decisions.
• Research, plan, and schedule flow monitor and rain gauge installations for the City's sanitary sewer system; ensure hardware and software are installed, updated, and maintained in conformance with applicable regulations.
• Deliver analytical support, including graphs, maps, and flow monitoring data, to partner agencies and consultants.
• Provide technical leadership in the effective operation of the sanitary sewer system during wet weather high flows to reduce or eliminate the risk of sewer backups or spills at uncontrolled overflow points.
• Support field operations as needed by assisting the Flow Monitoring field crew and managing the Gas/Oxygen Monitoring Program to promote safe, reliable monitoring activities.
• Prepare purchase documentation, including sole source memos, purchase requisitions, and capital outlay purchase requests, to keep projects moving efficiently.

What can we offer you for all your hard work?

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies.
• Competitive pay.
• Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%.
• Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account.
• Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Voluntary long-term care.
• Employee wellness program.
• Employee assistance program.
• Employee health clinic.
• Position schedule is Monday through Friday.
• Our team follows a hybrid schedule working in-office (1457 23rd St SE) 4 days a week and remotely for the rest with manager approval. This is subject to change based on business needs.
• The City of Salem offers a comprehensive and equitable base salary within the listed range based on your experience, skills, and education. We encourage you to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Learn more about Equal Pay.

What are the minimum qualifications?

• Must pass the pre-employment background check.
• Possess an Oregon Driver license and have a driving record that meets the City of Salem's driving standards preferred.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Environmental Science, Engineering, Public Administration, or in a related field, and four years of experience in environmental programs, utility operations, monitoring, or regulatory compliance or any combination of education, experience and training that demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities as listed, and ability to perform the essential job functions.

Preferred experience:

• Supervisory or lead experience

What you will bring along:

• Knowledge of wastewater collection systems, flow monitoring, or environmental monitoring programs.
• Familiarity with FOG control programs, rain gauge networks, or sensor-based monitoring systems is desirable.
• Experience working with data analytics and GIS-based systems in an operational or program management context.
• Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret technical data and translate findings for non-technical audiences.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of business or public administration, risk management, fleet services, public works and utilities, building/construction, parks and recreation, regional planning, or urban renewal.
• Program management coordination, scheduling, customer service, budgeting, communication, and reporting skills.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations, ordinances, and safe work practices.
• Proficiency in mathematics, accounting, purchasing, and budgeting.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, co-workers, other agencies, and the public.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for a wide range of audiences.
• Ability to work independently and make decisions with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of contemporary office practices, procedures, and use of computers, software, and other related program technology or equipment.
• Ability to research and analyze data; read, interpret, and convey technical information; create reports, presentations, educational materials, or other documents; and produce other professional, statistical, and/or analytical information.
• Ability to supervise, schedule work, or lead staff as assigned.
• Commitment to respect, seek to understand, and value individual differences to foster and support a diverse and inclusive workplace.

About us: Salem is the second largest city in Oregon and the capital city. Centrally located in the Willamette Valley, Salem is 49 square miles in size and extends across to counties, Marion and Polk. The community has well-established neighborhoods and carefully preserved historic buildings with wide diversity and a family-friendly ambiance. The city is home to nearly 180,000 residents. For a full community profile detailing demographics and housing statistics, visit the City of Salem website.

The City of Salem organization has eight primary departments: Community Services, Finance, Fire, Enterprise Services, Legal, Police, Public Works, and Community Planning and Development. Several departments also have functional divisions within their department. The City of Salem employs roughly 1,350 talented and dedicated staff members and works collaboratively with five labor unions.

Where can I find out more about the position? Go to the menu option for Class Specifications and search for Program Manager I.