Water Commissioner/Hydrographer (DWR EPST II) Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado/jobs/newprint/5039529) Apply  Water Commissioner/Hydrographer (DWR EPST II) Salary $31.60 - $46.68 Hourly Location Logan County, CO Job Type Full Time Job Number PEA 000489 08/2025 Department Department of Natural Resources Division Division of Water Resources Opening Date 08/14/2025 Closing Date 8/24/2025 5:00 PM Mountain FLSA Determined by Position Type of Announcement This position is open only to Colorado state residents. Primary Physical Work Address Sterling Branch Office - 100 Broadway, Ste. 1-D Sterling, CO 80751 Hiring Pay Rate Employees new to State Government will be paid on a bi-weekly basis. FLSA Status Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime compensation. Department Contact Information Patrick.gerity@state.co.us Salary Note Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum. How To Apply Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed. + Description + Benefits + Questions Department Information This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. Are you interested in investing in a career that makes a difference? Consider joining the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. It’s our mission to manage and conserve Colorado’s natural resources for the benefit of people today – and tomorrow. That means we have to balance development with conservation so the state we all love provides similar opportunities for our children and their children. We invite you to explore our website athttps://dnr.colorado.gov/ to find out more about the work we do to manage Colorado’s natural resources for today – and tomorrow. The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. In addition to offering rewarding, meaningful work, we offer: + Medical and Dental plans + Strong, flexible retirement plans including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus pre-tax 401K and 457 plans + Paid life insurance + Short- and long-term disability coverage + Employee Wellness programs + Flexible Spending Accounts + Health Savings Accounts + 11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave + Flexible work schedule options and remote-work options + Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, go to: https://studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/pslfFlow.action#!/pslf/launch Division of Water Resources (DWR): State Engineer's Office Our mission is to administer the waters of the State to maximize lawful beneficial use, ensure that dams and water wells are properly constructed and safe, and provide information about water resources to the public. Division of Water Resources (https://dwr.colorado.gov/) The water commissioner work unit assists in the administration the waters of the South Platte River basin in accordance with the priority system and interstate compacts to maximize the beneficial use of water in accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes, court decrees, and the State Engineer’s policies, rules, and regulations.. Water Commissioners and other DWR staff assist the State and Division Engineer in their statutorily obligated efforts to collect this information and compile in official annual diversion records the amount of water diverted from the public streams and other information deemed relevant to benefit the state. The Division of Water Resources (DWR) Hydrographic Services work unit collects and disseminates data on surface water flow in streams, and water structures within the State to support water rights administration decision making. The work unit also manages the satellite monitoring program.   Description of Job This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. This position is an EPST II Water Commissioner and Hydrographer. T his position will assist the River Coordinator and water commissioner in former Water Districts 1 and 64 in the distribution, control and regulation of waters in that district pursuant to water court decrees and applicable statutes. The Hydrographer’s position duties include measuring and evaluating data to determine the streamflow quantity at stream gaging stations, canals and ditches in support of water administration. This position will be responsible for maintaining gaging stations, associated electronics and structures, structure assessment, and streamflow records development. Specific job duties include but are not limited to: Measure and Collect Flow Data (Discharge Measurement): Measure and collect data to determine and illustrate the relationship between water level (stage) and streamflow; stage and area; and velocity indexes at assigned stream gaging stations using prescribed procedures, standards and manuals. This requires computation of discharge using in-stream measurements of velocity at stream cross-sections. Computed discharge is analyzed, verified and compared with established relations at the stream gage to adjust and calibrate to existing conditions. Discharge Computation: Evaluate and compile water flow data using graphical and computer analyses to create an accurate official streamflow reports of discharge for publication, court proceedings, etc. Peer review of others compilations of streamflow reports prior to publication. Maintain, modify and develop stage-discharge, stage-area and velocity index relations at assigned stream gages within the basin. Provide streamflow reports to internal and external customers including consulting engineers, attorneys and governmental agencies as required by agreement, law or otherwise directed. Surveying, Engineering: Surveys datum checks to benchmarks at assigned gaging stations for continual evaluation of stage-discharge relations, flood detection and warning systems as well as conducting level surveys on existing weirs, flume and other structures to diagnose and quantify measurement accuracies and problems. Water Resources Investigations: Collaborates with professional engineers, research scientists and technicians in studies involving streamflow determinations, gain-loss studies, stage-discharge relation construction and groundwater level monitoring. Stream gage Maintenance, Rehabilitation and Construction: Inspect service and calibrate all mechanical and electronic telemetry equipment relevant to stream gages to ensure quality data is consistently available. Observe, report, plan and execute maintenance projects either improving or maintaining stream gage infrastructure in safe conditions for accurate and dependable operation. Water Distribution: At the diversion structures and reaches (sections) of streams and rivers assigned by the River Coordinator and Lead Water Commissioner, calculates the amount of natural flow available and ascertains the amounts of reservoir releases, transfer, reuse and augmentation water at locations on the South Platte River and its tributaries by evaluating flow and hydrologic information, interpreting decrees and statutes, and communicating with water users. Controls and regulates the distribution of water and required releases to the appropriate water diverters by communicating with water users such that they may make timely headgate adjustments. The increasing demand for accuracy, timeliness and locations for monitoring of stream reaches, diversions, stream gains and losses has required the addition of numerous electronic computerized dataloggers. Position must be available 7-days per week and 24-hours per day in the event of required real-time water administration needs, such as changing river conditions, flooding, etc., typically during the irrigation season. Water Administration & Enforcement: As assigned by the River Coordinator and Lead Water Commissioner, enforces the provisions of Colorado Water Law and policies of the State Engineer by controlling and locking headgates and issuing verbal and written orders restricting diversion as provided by statute; by investigating conditions of water use and compiling reports to support formal enforcement actions; by monitoring compliance with designated safe storage level in reservoirs; by monitoring wells for compliance with rules and regulation concerning groundwater use; and by following provisions of exchanges, substitute water supply plans and augmentation plans, and by disseminating information through public meetings and contact with water users. Water Diversion Records: At the direction of the River Coordinator and Lead Water Commissioner, gathers, edits and compiles official record of each assigned diversion structure according to source, use and type of water by identifying, coding and verifying data collected from physical inspection, water users and water recording devices. Certifies diversion records by endorsing each entry before publication. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. Minimum Qualifications: Five (5) years of work experience assisting engineers, scientists, or technicians with work related to engineering or physical science, which involves the use, measurement, and control or distribution of water. AND High school diploma or GED OR Additional appropriate education will substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis. (Experience as a ditch rider, rancher or farmer that included regulating and measuring water flow through headgates, canals or streams, or experience managing irrigation and irrigation systems, scientific field investigations, municipal water operations, Colorado water administration, other experience related to water or natural resources, law or code enforcement, is considered related experience. Additionally, t raining and/or experience in surface water measurements in streams, ditches, etc. is considered related experience ) Please note: The required experience must be substantiated within the work experience section of your application. Your resume will not be reviewed to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications; only the work experience section of your application will be reviewed to determine this. “See Resume” statements on the application will not be accepted. In addition, part-time work will be prorated. If you are using a degree to substitute for the required experience, you may be required to provide copies of your educational transcripts for verification of your qualifications if requested. Preferred Qualifications: + Current or former State experience relevant to this position. + Knowledge and experience with Colorado water rights. + Water administration experience. + Surface water measurement experience. + Excellent public service skills. + Experience reading and/or interpreting legal documents. + Proficiency with Google and Microsoft suites. + Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or Google Sheets. + Other experience relevant to the use or management of water resources. The current work arrangement for this position is as follows: (Please note, this arrangement can be subject to change) + Hybrid: To be determined with supervisor after initial training period with a combination of work from home, field time, some days reporting to the Sterling office and on occasion travel to the main Division Office. (This position will at times have a responsibility to report to work during emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. The ideal candidate would be willing to live within sixty (60) minutes' driving time, under normal weather conditions, of where the work station and/or equipment is located.) Conditions of Employment: + Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application and provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify their application from the current position. (Please Note: Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with DNR). + Must be willing and able to possess and maintain a State of Colorado Driver's License + Must be willing and able to travel daily throughout the water district. + Must have the ability to report to the work location that can include off-road conditions and rugged terrain. + Must have the ability to independently access remote locations to complete work assignments within the district. + Must be willing and able to spend up to several hours per day standing and/or climbing up and down hills. + Must be willing and able to perform duties seven days a week if water conditions warrant during the irrigation season. + Must be willing and able to work overtime. + Must be willing and able to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions. + Must be willing and able to work on weekends and holidays during the peak season as necessary. + Must be willing and able to work alone in remote areas. + Must be willing and able to perform physical tasks, which may include lifting up to 50 lbs. + Must be prepared to defend and support actions and records in depositions or court testimony. + Must be able to address frequent and detailed inquiries from attorneys, professional engineers and hydrologists from government and private agencies. + Must be willing and able to respond to emergency situations on weekends and evenings. APPEAL RIGHTS: It is recommended that you contact the Human Resources Specialist listed below to resolve issues related to your possession of minimum qualifications. However, if you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director. An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email, US Mail, faxed or hand delivered within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action. For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board go tospb.colorado.govor refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, atspb.colorado.govunder Rules. Supplemental Information The Assessment Process + All applications received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed by an HR Specialist against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement. + Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Part of, or all of, the comparative analysis for this position will be a structured application review by Subject Matter Experts. + Resumes, cover letters and other attachments are not considered as part of initial reviews, therefore, it is important todocument in your application your education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications as outlined in the job announcement . + Please thoroughly answer all supplemental questions (if listed) since question responses may be evaluated for content, writing ability, spelling, grammar, and effective communication. + This recruitment may involve additional testing and/or exams to arrive at the top group for interviews. + This posting could be used to fill other vacancies of the same level and same reporting location. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. ADAAA Accommodations Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date. E-Verify The Department of Natural Resources participates inE-Verify (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/E-Verify\_Participating\_Employer.jpg) in accordance with the program'sRight to Work (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/ier\_righttoworkposter-%20jpeg(1).jpg) for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S.Learn more (https://www.e-verify.gov/) about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities. Toll–Free Applicant Support - Technical Help If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with technical issues. Helpful hints: If you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and close the document before you attempt to upload it. The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon. 01 The Colorado Constitution, Article XII, Section 13 requires that APPLICANTS for state classified government jobs be residents of Colorado, unless this requirement is waived by the State Personnel Board. There is no residency waiver for this announcement. Please confirm that you are a current resident of Colorado. + Yes + No 02 Current and former State Personnel System employees who were disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or who were deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation) must disclose this information on the application. + I am not a current or former State of Colorado classified employee. + I am a current or former State of Colorado employee but have NEVER been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation). + I am a current or former State of Colorado employee and have been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation). NOTE: Failure to disclose this information and/or falsification of Application materials may result in being removed from consideration for this position. 03 Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose this information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify you application from the current position: 04 If you are using education to meet or substitute for qualifications, did you upload a copy of your official or unofficial transcript? (Your transcript is required as verification that you meet the requirements). + Yes, I have attached my transcripts. + No, I am not using college course work to meet minimum requirements for this position. + Not Applicable 05 Did you upload your résumé and cover letter to this on-line application? + Yes + No 06 Part, or all, of the assessment for this position involves a review of the information you submit in your application materials. Please verify that you understand that the failure to include adequate information or attachments to your job application may affect your final score and/or prevent you from competing in any subsequent measures used to arrive at a top group of applicants. + Yes + No 07 If you are a veteran who is eligible for preference points, did you upload/attach your DD-214? Veterans who wish to seek disability preference points based on a service related disability must submit acceptable documentation to support your claim for veterans' preference (exclude specific/private medical information). + Yes + No + Not Applicable 08 Please describe your knowledge and experience with Colorado water rights: 09 Please describe your water administration experience: 10 Please describe your water measurement experience: 11 Do you have experience working with Google and Microsoft Suite? + Yes + No 12 Please describe your level of experience with Microsoft Excel: + No Experience + Beginner + Intermediate + Advanced 13 Do you have an intimate or familial relationship with anyone who works at DNR or DWR? 14 Do you or your family have any private interests that could result in a conflict of interest or perceived conflict of interest with the job duties of this position (such as personal water rights)? Required Question Employer State of Colorado Address See the full announcement by clicking the "Printer" icon located above the job title Location varies by announcement, Colorado, -- Website https://careers.colorado.gov/ Apply Please verify your email addressVerify Email