Competency Validator, Drinking Water Quality

Company Description

CAWST is a Canadian charity and licensed engineering firm. We address the global need for safe drinking water and sanitation by building local knowledge and skills on household solutions people can implement themselves.

At the heart of everything we do is our belief that when people have their basic water and sanitation needs met, they have the opportunity to succeed. This is what drives our dedicated team to work with a global network of more than 1,500 clients and partners. Together, we have reached more than 16 million people since our inception in 2001.

Collectively, we are making a difference at a scale beyond what any of us could do individually.

**Job Description**:
CAWST is looking for a Calgary-based volunteer with extensive experience in water quality testing, who can commit to working from our office for at least 1-2 days per month.

As a Drinking Water Quality Testing (DWQT) Competency Validator, this volunteer will be tasked with assessing the skills and competency of water quality testing specialists who perform field-based drinking water quality testing. They will play a critical role in ensuring that testing professionals meet the required standards and possess the necessary knowledge and proficiency to accurately conduct tests, collect samples, and interpret data. Through rigorous evaluations and performance assessments, they will maintain the integrity and reliability of water quality testing, contributing to the safety of drinking water for communities.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Competency Assessment**
- Implement competency assessment programs to evaluate the skills and capabilities of water quality testing specialists as per CAWST’s Competency Validation Framework.

**Practical Field Evaluations**
- Conduct on-site evaluations of water quality testing professionals as they perform various field tasks, including water sampling, equipment operation, and test execution.
- Observe and assess professionals' compliance with safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and best practices.
- Evaluate the accuracy and precision of field tests conducted by testing specialists.

**Data Analysis and Reporting**
- Analyze assessment data to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement for individual testing specialists and the overall team.
- Prepare comprehensive reports detailing the findings of competency assessments, including specific feedback and recommendations.

**Remedial Training and Support**
- Provide feedback and constructive criticism to water quality testing specialists based on assessment results.
- Offer remedial training and guidance to individuals who require additional support to meet competency standards.

**Compliance and Quality Assurance**
- Ensure that water quality testing professionals comply with relevant regulations, standards, and guidelines during field testing.
- Collaborate with training programs to help address knowledge gaps and enhance the competency of the testing team.

**Continuous Improvement**
- Continuously review and update competency assessment criteria to align with evolving industry standards and best practices.
- Stay informed about advancements in water quality testing technology and methodologies to ensure the assessments remain relevant and up-to-date.

**Collaboration and Communication**
- Collaborate with training coordinators, managers, and other stakeholders to create a cohesive and effective competency validation program.
- Communicate assessment results and improvement plans with individuals being evaluated and their supervisors.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field. A master's or doctorate degree is a plus.
- Extensive experience as a water quality testing specialist, with a focus on field testing and data interpretation.
- Strong knowledge of water quality regulations, testing methods, and best practices.
- Demonstrated experience in designing and conducting competency assessments and evaluations.
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail to objectively assess performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to provide constructive feedback and interact effectively with testing specialists and stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple assessments simultaneously.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis techniques for interpreting assessment data is beneficial.
- Understanding of health and safety protocols associated with water quality testing.
- Willingness to travel to various locations to conduct field evaluations.

Additional Information
**Benefits of volunteering with CAWST**:

- A meaningful role, making a difference every day for people living without basic water and sanitation
- A workplace culture where collaboration and innovation are fostered
- Rich on-the-job experiences

**When applying, please include**:

- ** A cover letter** that gives an