Water Sustainability Planner

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is seeking a Water Sustainability Planner in Durant, OK. This role involves implementing the Water Settlement Agreement, managing sustainable planning for tribal water resources, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Key tasks include administering drinking water systems, coordinating assessments, developing reports, and assisting with funding opportunities. A Bachelor’s degree and experience in environmental project management and GIS are required.
Job Purpose or Objective(s): As the Water Sustainability Planner, you will be responsible for administering the implementation of the Water Settlement Agreement through identification, development, and administration of sustainable planning and practices for tribal water resources to promote the sovereignty of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. You will report to the Director of Water Resources.

Primary Tasks:

1. Administer the Sustainable Communities program for the development of long-term planning and operations of drinking water systems in the Reservation as provisioned by the Water Settlement Agreement to provide a higher quality of life for tribal citizens.

2. Administer the necessary tribal requirements of Title IV and Title V of the Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Act as required by federal law and the McGirt/Sizemore decisions.

3. Coordinate and assist with water system, mining, and watershed assessments and develop long-term sustainable plans for tribal water sources to reduce or mitigate issues or degradation.

4. Cultivate and maintain professional working relationships and partnerships with communities, towns, organizations, academic institutions, federal, state, and local representatives to engage and coordinate to identify and assist with community, environmental, and economic needs.

5. Work cooperatively with internal tribal departments to coordinate efforts, as well as with state and federal agencies for potential funding mechanisms.

6. Develop and present reports, technical comments; and interpret technical reports for community leaders and Choctaw Nation leadership.

7. Attend and participate in networking, conference, and training opportunities to increase knowledge and understanding of environmental issues.

8. Assist with coordination of funding and grant opportunities related to water planning, economic development, and sustainability.

9. Provide presentations of significance to community leaders and stakeholders at different environmental, economic, and rural or urban development platforms.

10. Assist Director of Water Resources in providing mentorship, guidance, and training to multi-disciplinary staff members as needed.

11. You will perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

· Bachelor of Science Degree

· Ability to interpret data, conduct analyses, and compose comprehensive documents.

· Experience with scientific protocols, scientific reports, public speaking, and gap identification

· One (1) year of experience with Geographic Information System (GIS) software

· Knowledge of federal and state water law, policies, and regulations

· One (1) year of experience in environmental project management

· Two (2) years of experience in environmental data analysis, technical reporting development, and presenting.