Environmental Specialist I

Environmental Specialist I (NS)

The primary mission of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is to provide science-based environmental stewardship for the health and prosperity of all North Carolinians. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of North Carolina's environmental resources. The organization, which has offices from the mountains to the coast, administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and the public's health, and works to advance in all-of-the-above energy strategy that fits North Carolina's needs. DEQ also offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public and encourages responsible behavior with respect to the environment through education programs provided at DEQ facilities and through the state's school system. DEQ touches the lives of all North Carolinians in many ways to enhance and ensure our quality of life.

*This is an anticipated vacancy. This position is expected to be available on 09/16/2026.* The primary purpose of this position is to inspect UST facilities for compliance with UST operating permit requirements. This position is physically home-based and will be located in or within 25 miles of the following counties: (Eastern section of Davidson, Randolph, Chatham, Alamance, Caswell, and Person). The inspector will work from his/her home and a computer, office equipment, mobile phone, transportation, etc. will be provided. The inspector would be responsible for suitable office space and internet connection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducts routine compliance and installation inspections of UST facilities to ensure compliance with UST regulations. The inspector will follow up with appropriate enforcement action as needed.
• Responding to citizen reports of abandoned USTs, and suspected releases (e.g., vapors in sewers/basements, contaminated water supply wells, failed leak detection tests) and ensure that appropriate action is taken.
• Provide information about the UST rules and requirements to the regulated community and other interested parties.
• Gather and compile reports, based on inspection results, on the causes of leaks and the effectiveness of leak prevention and leak detection equipment and methods.
• Required to make oral presentations to groups of UST owners/operators for community outreach and training.

Recruitment Range: $47,703 - $58,095

The Division of Waste Management is responsible for protecting the public health and environment through assuring that solid and hazardous waste and underground storage tanks are managed properly, and existing contamination is cleaned up across the State of North Carolina. This is accomplished through the Hazardous Waste, Solid Waste, Superfund and Underground Storage Tank Sections, and the Brownfields Redevelopment Section.

If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Visit to learn more.

This position currently qualifies for a hybrid telework option with routine office and remote workdays. The NC Department of Environmental Quality trusts our employees to be self-motivated and successful in hybrid/remote roles. Telework options are subject to change at the discretion of management.

Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in one of the agricultural, biological, engineering, environmental or natural resource sciences or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

EEO Statement: The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.