Introduction
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hiring a Nonpoint Source Coordinator (Water Resources Management Specialist) in the Division of External Services – Watershed Management to coordinate, manage, and implement Nonpoint Source (NPS) Pollution abatement regulations and grant activities in the southeastern part of the state at either the entry or senior level.
This position can be headquartered out of the Milwaukee or Waukesha Service Center or Plymouth Field Office, depending on office space availability and the location of the selected candidate. Remote work may be available for a portion of the work week, after the initial onboarding period.
We strive to hire, develop, and retain a talented workforce representative of the people of Wisconsin we serve. We offer training and career growth opportunities, a comprehensive benefits package, and are searching for people with diverse backgrounds to join our dynamic and team-oriented environment.
The Watershed Management program administers water quality programs associated with management of storm water runoff, agricultural runoff (permitted and unpermitted farms), and other nonpoint sources of pollution. Staff manage Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit programs, assist landowners in implementing best management practices, leverage collaborative relationships with counties and other partners, in an effort to improve and protect water quality in fulfillment of our Mission.
Find a meaningful and rewarding career with the DNR The DNR excels at protecting and managing natural resources while supporting the economy and the well-being of our residents. We are dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. The staff works in partnership with individuals and organizations to manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air, and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.
Position Summary
This Nonpoint Source Coordinator is responsible for coordinating, managing, and implementing all Nonpoint Source (NPS) Pollution abatement regulations and grant activities in the assigned geographical area, including implementation of NR 151 performance standards/prohibitions and coordination of financial grant activities pertaining to nonpoint source management (e.g., Targeted Runoff Management and Notice of Discharge grants). This position will play a vital role in ensuring water quality projects are implemented in areas with an approved watershed improvement plan that meet the nine key elements. This position will support the implementation and administration of other applicable portions of the Clean Water Act, state Statutes, and Wisconsin Administrative Code, including Chapters NR 120, 151, 153, 154 and 243. The position will be responsible for oversight of any remaining Priority Watershed Projects and easements and may assist in the development and review of Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) implementation plans and other water quality-based plans.
For more information, please see the position descriptions for Entry or Senior.
Salary Information
Starting pay for the Entry level of this position is between $32.00 to $34.00 per hour.
The starting pay for the Senior level is $33.00 to $37.00 per hour ($68,640 to $76,960 annually).
This position is included in the classification Water Resources Management Specialist (Entry level Pay Schedule / Range 15-04 or Senior level Pay Schedule / Range This position is not represented by a collective bargaining unit. Pay on appointment will follow the provisions of the State of Wisconsin Compensation Plan.
The State of Wisconsin offers an exemplary benefits package with:
Generous paid time off, including at least 3 1/2 weeks of vacation/personal time, nine paid holidays, and ample sick time that rolls over each year with no cap.
Excellent and affordable health insurance options (starting at $45/month for single and $111/month for family coverage).
Other great insurance options (dental, vision, life, and more).
A top-notch retirement program and optional tax advantaged 457 retirement savings plan.
A Well Wisconsin program, offering wellness tools and rewards to employees and spouses.
A free and confidential employee assistance program that offers employees and their household members tools, resources, and professional consultation services.
For more info, see our Total Rewards Calculator.
Job Details
Travel: This position has responsibilities within the Southeastern part of the state. This position will require travel throughout the assigned geographic area for field inspections, will require some statewide travel and overnight stays, and may require minimal out of state travel. County coverage will be Racine, Kenosha, Walworth, Jefferson, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, Sheboygan (and either Dodge County or FDL County).
Physical/ Environmental Factors: Please see the position description linked in the Position Summary section.
Probation: A 12-month probationary period may be required.
Future Opportunities: This recruitment may be used to fill future similar positions.
Background Checks: The Department of Natural Resources conducts criminal background checks on final applicants prior to job offer. Please note that a criminal charge or conviction on your record will not necessarily disqualify you from state employment. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the DNR does not discriminate on the basis of arrest or conviction record.
Eligibility to work in United States: The Department of Natural Resources does not sponsor work visas at the time of hire or anytime during employment. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Employment Eligibility Form I-9 upon hire.
Remote Work: Based on an assessment of the goals and work activities, this position may be eligible for remote work. Remote work approval is based on individual circumstances and is subject to supervisor approval and DNR remote work policies. Approval is subject to change without notice based on business needs. Employees with approved remote work arrangements are generally expected to work within the state of Wisconsin.
Qualifications
Please describe the below qualifications in your resume and letter of qualifications to be considered for this position. For instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications and what should be included in these materials, click here:
Required Qualifications Include ALL Of The Following Criteria
Education, training or experience in natural resources, soil science and/or water management principles and processes.
Experience communicating technical and/or scientific information, both verbally and in writing, to a diverse set of stakeholders, (including external partners and internal customers such as county conservation staff, landowners, technical agencies, other agency staff, etc.)
Experience utilizing Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Outlook (e.g. editing/formatting documents, data entry, creating spreadsheets, or comparable tasks).
In addition to the above, preferred qualifications include experience with any the following:
Agricultural and other nonpoint sources best management practices and techniques.
Spill response procedures and techniques.
Interpreting and applying administrative rules and regulations (example: Chapter NR 120, 151, 153, 154 and 243)
Implementing programs or projects that manage agriculture runoff to surface waters or groundwater.
How To Apply
The steps to apply online are quick and easy Your resume and letter of qualifications are used during our evaluation process to determine your eligibility for further consideration. Submitted materials will be evaluated by a panel of job experts and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. It is critically important that your application materials clearly describe your experience related to the stated job qualifications. Please review our helpful tips for developing your resume and letter of qualifications and what should be included. References are not required at the time of application but will be required upon successful completion of the interview process. Once you submit your application, you will not be able to make any updates to the application or any materials submitted.
If viewing this posting on an external site (such as, etc.), please visit Wisc.Jobs and search for this Job ID: 20114 to complete your application for this posting. Current state employees, including those with Career Executive status, must apply through STAR ESS. Former permanent classified state employees must apply through Wisc.Jobs.
For technical troubleshooting related to the Wisc.Jobs site, please view the Frequently Asked Questions. For questions regarding the application process, please contact Vicki Treml in Human Resources at
Disabled veterans: Qualified veterans with a 30% or more service-connected disability are eligible for non-competitive appointment to permanent positions in classified civil service under s WI Stats. Please send your letter of qualifications and resume outlining how you meet the required qualifications for the position listed above in the job announcement along with your DD-214 and documentation of your service-connected disability rating (dated within 12-months) to the HR contact listed in this announcement for information on how to apply under this provision. Current permanent State employees are not eligible for non-competitive appointment.
The State of Wisconsin is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to applicants of any race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
Deadline to Apply
All applications must be received by 11:59 pm central standard time on Thursday, March 5th, 2026.