Environmental Programs Specialist

Environmental Programs Specialist – Air Quality Division (Technical Resources and Special Projects) Overview The Air Quality Division’s Technical Resources and Special Projects section provides technical support, coordinates special projects such as grant administration and public education efforts, and operates the lead‑based paint (LBP) and renovation, repair, and painting (RRP) programs. This position assists with day‑to‑day administration of the LBP and RRP certification programs. Responsibilities Learn the regulations and requirements of the LBP program, RRP program, EPA grants, and the Volkswagen (VW) Settlement Trust. Review certification applications and quarterly reports submitted by customers under the LBP program. Provide assistance to the public via phone, email, and in‑person on understanding lead‑certification requirements and navigating the online application system. Assist customers on how to apply and comply with the DERA grant and VW Settlement programs. Administer LBP and RRP certification exams. Train and serve as an inspector and auditor for LBP and RRP; after training, pass associated exams before independently performing inspections. Perform inspections on assigned vehicle projects under DERA and VW programs. Occasionally give presentations on regulations, lead certification programs, the dangers of LBP, and promotion of DERA/VW programs. Create, maintain and update informal standard operating procedures (SOPs), instructions, and process notes for independent activities. Assist with the creation, review, and updating of formal SOPs and quality assurance project plans (QAPPs) related to assigned activities. Assist with progress reporting to EPA and the VW Settlement Trust. Travel as required: possess a valid driver’s license; travel for in‑state inspections, public outreach events, and out‑of‑state training, meetings, or conferences; attend up to five overnight trips per year. Education & Experience LevelI – Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 24 semester hours in a physical, natural, or biological science, chemistry, geology, hydrology, environmental science, or related engineering discipline. LevelII – LevelI qualifications plus one year of professional experience in one of the listed fields or a master’s degree in a qualifying area; applicant must be within 60 days of obtaining the degree. Additional Considerations / Preference Computer skills – Proficiency in DEQ standard software (MS Office365, Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, MSTeams) and nForm. Detail orientation – Ability to determine when information is incorrect or missing from customer‑submitted applications and reports. Writing skills – Good command of grammar, basic technical writing, document organization, formatting, and review of others’ documents. Integrity – Commitment to ethical practices, ensuring accuracy, impartiality, and truthfulness in assessments and reports. Communication & presentation skills – Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, create and give presentations, and converse informally at public outreach events. Composure – Calm, patient, and constructive when assisting others or dealing with conflict. Organizational skills – Self‑motivated to manage multiple simultaneous independent projects with varying timelines. Attitude / loyalty – Positive attitude, willingness to participate in assigned projects, surveys, or pilot programs, and prioritization of agency goals. Independent and team work – Ability to work individually and as part of a team. Deadlines – Ability to track and meet established timeframes and deadlines and to seek help when necessary. Problem solving – Ability to recognize potential issues and work to resolve them or bring them to manager’s attention. Physical Requirements Operate a personal computer for several hours a day. Occasionally sit behind the wheel of a state‑owned vehicle for several hours a day. Walk on varied terrain (loose gravel, slopes, excavated areas, construction sites). Carry equipment or supplies up to 25pounds. Occasionally ride in an airplane for several hours a day. Climb step‑ladders and stairs. Set up and break down folding chairs, tables, and displays. Walk up to one mile per day. Stand and/or walk several hours at a time during outreach events; breaks and chairs will be provided. May be exposed to short‑term odors and pollutants. Work on weekends up to a few times per year. Benefits Generous leave including 15days of vacation, 15days of sick leave, and 11 paid holidays annually. Comprehensive benefit package offsetting the cost of insurance premiums for employees and eligible dependents. Equal Opportunity Employment The State of Oklahoma is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr 292 DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY