Plans, coordinates, and directs the water pollution control and ecology operations to establish operational priorities. Coordinates operations with other functions within the agency and ensures program objectives and standards are established consistent with overall goals. Directs and coordinates the implementation of pollution control and ecology programs by developing short and long-range plans to facilitate the attainment of water program goals and to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. Provides direction to managers within the section by interviewing and recommending for hire, providing assistance to staff in resolving work problems, approving personnel actions, evaluating the performance of incumbents and ensuring objective performance appraisal. Develops and recommends staff material and equipment needs for the water pollution control and ecology operations to contribute to the formulation and justification of budgetary requests. Develops, evaluates, and interprets new and revised rules, policies, and procedures to assess the impact of the proposals on the administrative or program systems to ensure response to program needs and consistency with state and federal laws. Consults with and advises support staff to exchange information and/or explain administrative and program objectives, policies, procedures, and standards to identify the impact of work problems and formulate possible solutions. Makes presentations at meetings, conducts public meetings, and testifies in court, as necessary. Performs other duties as assigned.