Environmental Protection Specialist II - Aquifer Protection

Grade 17 - Starting hourly rate: $23.40 Rate of pay depends on qualifications. Job Summary The Environmental Protection Specialist II applies general knowledge of various water and wastewater principles, practices, and regulation to conduct a range of environmental protection activities, including information collection, inspection, monitoring, sampling, and public education. S/he conducts inspections, monitors activities, evaluates plans or sites for compliance, and compiles various data and information, generally under one regulatory framework. S/he works under limited supervision/guidance. Essential Functions Performs field analyses, site inspections, groundwater well inspections, and surveys to determine the extent of compliance/non-compliance with applicable local, state, and federal water quality regulations and permits. Negotiates compliance schedules and activities with the regulated community and follows up on progress. Completes inspection and investigation reports, which evaluates findings and includes recommendations; assembles data (computerized and manual) for tracking and documentation purposes. Reviews and evaluates permit applications, pollution control plans, and proposed compliance strategies generally under one regulatory framework. Assesses the need for corrective/preventive action. Initiates early stages of corrective action as appropriate, and consults with Supervisor to initiate latter, more advanced stages. Repairs and calibrates monitoring and sampling equipment or geologic logging equipment. Provides input on the development of environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies, and formal regulations that meet all appropriate regulatory requirements. Assists with implementation of these standards, once adopted. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements Associate's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology, Geographical Information Systems, or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Two years' experience in natural resource management, urban or environmental planning, regulatory compliance, geographical information systems (GIS) applications or experience inspecting, investigating, or monitoring storm water, pretreatment of wastewater or related environmental activities to comply with mandated regulations. TCEQ Class "D" Water License within 6 months and a Class "C" Water Distribution License within 24 months of hire. Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License. Proficient in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software. Perform position specific physical testing. Ability to report to work on time, maintain a good attendance record, and work all designated work schedules. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's Degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. TCEQ Class "II" Wastewater Collection Operator License. Job Dimensions Communicates effectively, verbally and in writing. Frequent contact with internal and external customers, consultants, vendors, and government agencies. Conducts regular, in-person and telephone contact with the public and regulated community representatives to explain environmental rules and laws, answers general technical inquiries, responds to complaints, performs inspections or investigations, and gains cooperation in achieving compliance. Participates in public and industry education by developing technical material, or communicating scientific and technical information through oral briefings, written documents, or written testimony. Responds to oil, sewage, and chemical spills and emergency situations requiring containment of the spilled substance to support assessment and action. Physical Demands and Working Conditions Physical requirements include lifting/carrying up to 60 pounds occasionally; pushing a maximum force of 100 pounds; pulling a maximum force of 100 pounds. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, and working in cramped and strained positions for long periods of time. Working conditions are both in an office environment and a field environment where there is heavy traffic, construction, rugged terrain, and inclement and hazardous environmental conditions. If a part of the "emergency response team" must be able to complete and maintain the requirements as specified in applicable regulations for Hazardous Materials Emergency Response, including clearance for use of respiratory protection and other associated protective equipment. Also operates a company vehicle on a daily basis. #J-18808-Ljbffr