Environmental Specialist II

Environmental Specialist II (NS)This Environmental Specialist II (ES II) supports the NC Water Safety Act through study design, monitoring coordination, sampling method development, and sample transport for a statewide study of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in municipal and industrial wastewater influent and effluent, as well as other monitoring needs. Statewide studies supporting the Water Safety Act will generate large numbers of samples on an ongoing basis. The ES II should be prepared to spend up to half of their time traveling and working throughout the state, including extended workdays and overnight stays, especially during the first 2-3 years of employment. Valid driver's license required. The ES II will pack and transport loaded sample coolers and must have the ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted.Key Responsibilities:Sampling and sample transport, including site visits, coordinating sample preservation conditions, and coordinating delivery of samples to Collaboratory academic institutionsFacilitating communication and coordination between DEQ staff, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitted dischargers, and the universities involved in the NC Collaboratory; managing conversations in person, electronically, and by telephoneCollaborating closely with existing programs to maximize sample collection efficiency and accuracy of data for water quality standards development, assessment, and emergency responseTraining internal NCDEQ staff and external public and private entities on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for water and wastewater sampling for PFAS and other analytesAuditing sampling proficiency to ensure consistent sample quality and data collection throughout the studySupporting DEQ priorities such as PFAS and emerging contaminant monitoring, data management, reporting on special studies, and participating in stakeholder and public meetingsThis position can be based at any of these three locations:Raleigh Regional Office, Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh NC (Wake County)Mooresville Regional Office, East Center Ave, Mooresville NC (Iredell County)Winston-Salem Regional Office, W Hanes Mill Rd, Winston-Salem NC (Forsyth County)Recruitment Range: $52,592.00 - $72,314.00Important: This posting closes at 11:59:59 PM the night BEFORE the End Date above. Job posting details will no longer be available after the position closes.The Division of Water Resources is responsible for protecting North Carolina's drinking, surface, and ground water for all waterbodies including lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, and aquifers. This environmental stewardship is accomplished through actions including permitting issuance, investigations, regulatory compliance, and enforcement, monitoring and field assessments, certifications, laboratory analysis and testing, planning, water quality standards management, educational outreach, and other efforts.The Water Sciences Section provides the Division of Water Resources with scientific and technical support required to monitor, regulate and manage water quality throughout North Carolina. The eight branches of the section, comprised of biologists, chemists, environmental specialists, and technical support staff, evaluate the state's aquatic resources through a variety of specialized biological, chemical, and physical techniques. These evaluations provide the basis for sound scientific decisions in the division's efforts to protect and enhance North Carolina's waters. The Ecosystems Branch coordinates statewide monitoring and special studies of water quality, algal blooms and wetlands.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 and two years of experience related to the area of assignment, 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.