ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST IV

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Environmental Protection Specialist IV (Working Supervisor) for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Bureau of Land (BOL), Field Operations Section (FOS), Central Region/Springfield Unit. The role serves as a working supervisor overseeing professional staff engaged in pollution control and abatement programs within both field and office environments. The specialist may also serve as a key staff member collaborating with consulting agencies on complex issues or studies with significant programmatic or policy implications. This role requires demonstrating experience independently managing complex environmental studies involving multiple variables and unknowns, requiring advanced technical knowledge, sound judgment, and strong problem‑solving skills. It offers an opportunity to lead, mentor, and guide professional staff while contributing to initiatives that protect Illinois’ land and environmental resources. Essential Functions Serves as working supervisor responsible for coordinating activities for the technical and professional staff of the Bureau of Land (BOL), Field Operations Section (FOS), Central Region/Springfield. Independently performs difficult, complex technical and scientific duties related to inspections/investigations of hazardous and solid waste management sites and remediation sites, evaluations and inspections at Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulated facilities. Assists Region Manager in performing complex technical and scientific duties. Prepares documents to refer facilities/sites for legal enforcement, including technical data and documents to be used as evidence. Attends technical seminars and workshops and conducts independent research to expand knowledge and better assist or disseminate information to staff. Reviews permit applications or other projects and provides input to the BOL Permit Section and other sections concerning technical aspects of the application and permit approval. Performs other duties as assigned or required, reasonably within the scope of the duties. Minimum Qualifications Four years of college coursework in physical, life, or environmental sciences, engineering, or geology. Four years of professional experience in environmental protection or a related field. Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance) At least four years of experience in conducting complex technical evaluations and inspections at RCRA–regulated facilities. At least four years of experience developing annual work plans and inspection schedules for hazardous and solid waste management facility inspections. At least four years of experience in conducting field operations inspections involving land pollution control. At least four years of experience preparing complex technical and scientific reports of field inspections and investigations. Ability to analyze and interpret complex scientific data relating to facilities, installations, equipment, and environmental control systems. At least four years of experience communicating with municipal officials, facility owners and operators, plant managers, or their representatives regarding environmental regulation and compliance. Ability to supervise a sub‑unit of a technical activity within the assigned program. Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint; use of a State‑issued iPhone. Extensive knowledge of modern inspectional and investigative techniques and procedures. Specialized Skills Conducting complex technical evaluations and inspections at RCRA‑regulated facilities. Developing annual work plans and inspection schedules for hazardous and solid waste management facility inspections. Conducting field operations inspections involving land pollution control. Conditions of Employment Current and valid driver’s license with the ability to travel. Ability to participate in the medical monitoring program. Ability to pass a physical examination and to wear respiratory protection and chemical‑resistant clothing in high‑heat environments. Ability to lift heavy equipment (e.g., 45 pounds) and to hike, climb, wade in streams, or swim in emergency situations as required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120. Required to complete and maintain working knowledge of 8‑hour annual refresher training or certification for Occupational Safety Regulations: 40‑hour OSHA Training within 90 days of employment. Ability to pass a name‑based background check. Overtime, including evenings and weekends, is a condition of employment. Job Information Job Requisition ID: 56081 Opening Date: 05/27/2026 Closing Date: 07/20/2026 Agency: Environmental Protection Agency Class Title: ENV PROT SPECIALIST IV (13824) Salary: $8,060 monthly (anticipated starting salary effective 07/01/26); full range $8,060 – $11,851 monthly. Job Type: Salaried Category: Full Time County: Sangamon Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code: – This position is a union position; relevant collective bargaining agreement applies. Agency Contact Joe Mercier Equal Employment Opportunity The State of Illinois is committed to a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas, and experiences are crucial to our ability to serve the public. Bilingual skills are welcome. The State is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities as required by federal law. Those requiring accommodations must provide appropriate certification and supporting documentation. #J-18808-Ljbffr