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UMass - Technical Assistance Providers for PWS

UMass - Technical Assistance Providers for Public Water Systems

Job Description

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Drinking Water Program (DWP) partners with UMass - Amherst to provide training and on-site assistance to help with technical, financial, managerial, and operational aspects of small public water systems (PWS) in Massachusetts. The assistance is designed to help PWS provide safe drinking water for the community while helping the systems remain in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.

UMass - Amherst is currently looking to hire individuals that can provide assistance to PWS in one or more of the following areas:

  • Development of Lead Service Line Identification and Replacement Plans
  • Lead & Copper Rule plans
  • Evaluate and apply for funding opportunities, including grants and loans
  • Address operational and maintenance issues
  • Develop sampling plans and perform water quality smapling at PWS and other locations such as schools or public buildings
  • Regulatory compliance assistance
  • Sanitary Survey preparation and assistance
  • Assist in the development of training materials for continuing education
  • General technical, financial, and managerial assessments
  • Review applications for technical assistance and/or sampling
  • Perform quality assurance and quality control assessments for laboratory results
  • Operator training
  • Provide information and help prepare applications for technical assistance
  • Review water quality results and discuss remediation options
  • Respond to phone and email inquiries about the various technical assistance programs
  • Attend peridoic virtual (video conference) project meetings


Several positions are available. Candidates of all experience and siill levels are encouraged to apply. The selected candidates will provide technical assistance via virtual and/or in person meetings to address issues faced by the PWS. Applicants must have a background in drinking water, engineering, public health, grant management, or other closely related field. Basic computer and cummunication/people skills are required. Ability to travel is required for some positions, but will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Bilingual ability in English and Spanish is desirable, but not required.

Schedule: 10-40 hours per week
Compensation: $18 - $45/hr depending on experience. This is an hourly, non-benefited position.
Please send a resume and a brief statement of interest to Patrick Wittbold pwittbold@umass.edu

Mass Rural Water Association

781 Millers Falls Road, Northfield, MA 01360

Phone: 413-498-5779

Fax: 413-498-9943