ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I

Environmental Specialist I - 37010218

This position is located in West Palm Beach, FL. This is an entry level work position responsible for processing permit applications and/or conducting compliance inspections for the Department's Compliance Assurance Program/Permitting Program. The incumbent will be expected to cross train in multiple program areas (air, waste, and water).

Permitting and Waste Cleanup – In general, this position reviews and processes highly complex ERP permit applications and technical documents and provides programmatic expertise and mentors staff on programmatic related issues. Reviews permit applications, plans, specifications, and reports for assigned programs. Ascertains that all Department rules are met. Reviews technical aspects of projects to determine that all materials and methods described in the application package are addressed, complete and suitable to the circumstances and in accordance with sound engineering practices and principles and particularly in accord with specific engineering publications referenced in Department rules. Updates permitting data/records in all applicable data management systems. Recommends issuance or denial of permits as appropriate. Ensures that Chapter 120, Florida Statutes, deadlines, and district metrics are met. Conducts permit determinations and communicates final decision with the facility/site owner. Coordinates with Compliance staff and supports inspections to determine compliance with permit. Writes Requests for Additional Information permit documents and other correspondence clearly and professionally as needed.

External Compliance Assistance, Outreach, Training, and Partnership Implementation – Strategizes and implements activities to target specific areas of regulatory non­compliance within the Southeast District and coordinates compliance assistance efforts with that industry. Conducts compliance/technical assistance site visits of highly complex regulated facilities to increase compliance rates. Seeks and cultivates positive partnering relationships with industry and regulated facilities to increase or maintain the highest possible compliance rates. Provides education and guidance to residential, commercial, institutional, and public sector. When available, arranges for the application of CEUs and the like towards outreach participants' licensure. Supports, develops, participates, and/or assists in the execution of compliance assistance workshops for the regulated community.

Internal Training, Consulting, and Organizational Improvement- Strategizes, assesses and determines training needs of Department staff. When directed, conduct peer review of work products for accuracy. Provides technical assistance as needed. Internal assistance includes training and providing technical assistance to Department staff. Evaluates and makes recommendations on training material and methodology. Develops and refines training aids such as SOPs, manuals, and handbooks. Participates, develops, and leads training activities and safety events. Facilitates learning through a variety of delivery methods including classroom instruction, virtual training, on-the-job coaching, job shadowing, and team building initiatives. Participates in training and is a self-advocate for training needs. Partners with appropriate district staff to learn about multiple DEP program areas.

Compliance - In general, this position may conduct a majority of inspections at facilities and sites known to be highly complex in multiple program areas. Plans and conducts inspections, site visits, sampling/testing, and/or other required field work. Reviews permitting files, reports, and other documents applicable to the inspection. Makes calculations and technical evaluations to determine compliance status of regulated facilities. Produces timely and accurate documentation of inspections, site visits, or field work. Enters inspection documentation, compliance data and resolution actions into the designated databases. Provides compliance assistance to regulated facilities before, during, and after inspections. Conducts follow up visits as needed to assist facilities with returning to compliance without enforcement. When necessary, recommends enforcement action. Drafts enforcement documents, coordinates, and leads enforcement meetings. Responds to, investigates, and takes steps to resolve complaints

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical or natural sciences. Ability to collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific or technical data. Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to environmental programs. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally. Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments. Ability to work in a team or independently. Ability to prepare technical and programmatic reports. Ability to understand and follow legislative policy direction as established in Florida Statutes. Ability to deal with the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with others. Ability to perform field inspections including: climb ladders and stairs, walk on slopes, lift and carry 40 pounds over a distance of up to 100 yards. Ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time in temperatures and weather conditions typical of South Florida. Skilled in the use of personal computers, computer programs, spreadsheets, industry database applications and various electronic devices. Ability to conduct and complete work assignments without close supervision. Certification upon appointment or within 9 months of appointment as a Certified Wetland Evaluator. (CWE) as applicable. Ability to use safety equipment and complete a 24-hour HAZWOPER course as applicable. Have prior approval and meet the snorkeling / skin diving validation requirements in the DEP Underwater Operations Manual, as applicable

Minimum Qualifications: Valid Driver License Ability to travel, overnight if required Obtain Department certification as a Certified Wetland Evaluator (CWE) within 9 months of hire, as applicable Ability to use safety equipment and complete a 24-hour HAZWOPER course, as applicable At least 4 years of verifiable related experience in regulatory inspection/compliance/permitting or other related experience. Post-secondary degrees may be used as an alternative for the required 4 years of experience on a year-for-year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.

Position of Special Trust Requirement: This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility. Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.