Deputy Director

Deputy Director

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $52.18 - $78.38 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site

Recruiter – Coral Ortega | caortega@utah.gov | 801-538-4624
Application Deadline – 7/3/2026 6:00 PM MDT

Ready to elevate your career at the intersection of science, policy, and leadership? The Utah Department of Environmental Quality is hiring a Deputy Director for the Division of Water Quality. We are looking for an accomplished environmental professional to help execute vital regulatory programs, build strong stakeholder partnerships, and drive continuous process improvements. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise teams within the Division to develop and execute work in alignment with Division and Department priorities and values.   
• Work closely with the Director to build Division credibility and advance Division priorities with federal, state and local government units, in the media, with stakeholders and through representation on various boards, councils, committees or task forces.  
• Develop and execute strategic plans for new initiatives in partnership with other Division managers and staff.     
• Assist the Director in executing all aspects of the Division’s water quality programs.
• Review regulatory and planning documents (permits, enforcement standards) to ensure consistency with the law and scientific and engineering accuracy.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with project and/or program management.
• A strong knowledge of Clean Water Act, Utah Water Quality Act, Utah's Administrative Rules and associated guidance that govern water quality programs in Utah.
• The ability to think strategically, anticipate needs, solve problems and effectively develop and execute a strategic plan for multi-year initiatives.
• Knowledge of process improvement tools, and willingness to lead and implement process improvement initiatives.
• The ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders, at times with competing interests, to solve problems and advance Division objectives.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information and ideas to a varied audience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Physical or Biological Science, Engineering, Environmental Policy, or related degree.

About the Role

Location –
195 North 1950 West
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – AX - Employees in supervisory positions

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. 
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. 
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
For more information about the Department of Environmental Quality and the Division of Water Quality, click here.

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender i