ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST I

Environmental Scientist I

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: To perform various scientific or engineering tasks and duties necessary; to implement and conduct programs and projects related to environmental compliance, permitting, pollution prevention or management as it pertains to environmental control; and do related work in a statewide environmental program as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Receives general and specific work assignments from a superior with some latitude for exercising independent judgement; work is reviewed in progress and upon completion for results and conformance to accepted standards.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: As assigned, may supervise the work of technical, seasonal and/or clerical employees.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

• To perform various scientific or engineering tasks and duties necessary; to implement and conduct programs and projects related to environmental compliance, permitting, pollution prevention or management as it pertains to environmental control; and do related work in a statewide environmental program as required.
• To assist in the development and implementation of various projects, studies or surveys in the relevant field of environmental management.
• Prepare, review or contribute to clear, technically sound and scientifically accurate technical plans and/or documents that may include findings, conclusions and recommendations in a statewide environmental program that includes, but is not limited to the fields of air pollution, hazardous and solid waste, water pollution, wetlands, underground and above ground tanks, pollution prevention and/or any other relevant environmental field.
• Collect and analyze data, conduct research, and/or develop action plans related to the identification, causes and effects of environmental pollution.
• Conduct technical inspections of sources to evaluate sources of pollution and assure compliance with applicable federal and state environmental regulations; and provide technical advice relating to the solution of environmental problems.
• As required, review permit applications and other technical documents for completeness and conformance to applicable policies and regulations and make recommendations for acceptance, modification or disapproval. Recommend to a superior that enforcement action be taken when necessary to achieve compliance with applicable environmental regulations.
• Draft technical or other appropriate correspondence and communication when required. Collaborate with a variety of partners and stakeholder groups and contribute to cooperative projects, efforts or activities. Review reports, investigations and studies, interpret findings, prepare written reports and make recommendations to a supervisor.
• Provide technical and scientific advice when required to the department or external stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain records, databases or files.
• Do related work as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT:

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES: A knowledge of the basic principles, practices, procedures and technology employed to preserve, protect and restore the environment of the state; a working knowledge of the state laws and regulations as they relate to environment protection and the ability to interpret and apply such laws; the ability to conduct research on the identification, causes and effects of pollution; the ability to prepare scientifically accurate reports on, and develop technical plans for environmental programs; the ability to gather and analyze technical and/or statistical data; the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in written form; the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, other government officials, stakeholders and partners; and the ability to engage in field work as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Education: Must possess a minimum of a bachelor's degree in one of the environmental, physical, or biological sciences; chemical, civil or environmental engineering; meteorology; environmental economics; or a closely related field.