ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II

Environmental Specialist II - 64053994

This position involves performing technical work in a comprehensive on-site sewage treatment & disposal system (OSTDS) program. This position is responsible for performing a variety of professional, educational, and investigative tasks in the promotion and enforcement of water and wastewater functions in Alachua, Bradford and Union Counties. Work is assigned and performed under the general supervision of the Environmental Manager who observes and evaluates work and performance. Duties of this position include the enforcement of regulations prescribed in Florida Statutes 381 and 386 as well as Chapter 64E-6 Florida Administrative Code (FAC) governing Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS) Chapter 64E-8 FAC, governing private and Limited public water supplies.

Specific duties include identification of hydric soils, flood plains, soil structures (conditions) and spodic zones. Evaluating and inspecting sites and plans proposed for installation of OSTDS. Providing support for the sampling of private or specific public portable water systems and occasional support of Well Surveillance Program. Performs standardized site evaluations throughout Alachua, Bradford and Union County in accordance with Code and Department policy to determine the suitability of the proposed lots for OSTDS installation and operation. Identifies plant species and soil samples for ground water level determination. Drills soil cores for soil color and texture classification using USDA soil testural triangles and maps. Establishes benchmark elevations for OSTDS construction installations. Measures and calculates available areas for OSTDS installation. Notes restrictive topographical features. Evaluates entire proposed OSTDS construction sites to determine proper setback requirements set forth in Chapter 64E-6 FAC governing OSTDS and Chapter 64E-8 FAC governing private and public drinking supplies. Conducts surveys and samples assigned public and private water supplies for potability and ground water contamination as set forth in the Well Surveillance Technical Guide. Notifies owner/operators of results. Inspects completed or in-construction OSTDS systems throughout Alachua, Bradford and Union Counties for congruence with submitted plans noting types of equipment installed, construction compliance, piping evaluation, sizes and locations for 64E-6 F.A.C compliance. Assists with inspections and collect water samples for regulated, contracted or private water systems in compliance with 64E-8 F.A.C. Enter inspections and sample data in database. Reviews and evaluates all applications in Alachua, Bradford and Union Counties for proposed OSTDS construction permits. Evaluates design criteria against standards mandated in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 64E-6. Issues OSTDS construction permits for complying applications, Maintains accurate records of all work performed through the use of State and departmental forms and electronic records. Enters all inspection records into the Environmental Health Database (EHD) to ensure compliance with frequency of inspection requirements as set forth in Environmental Health Program Manual DOHM 150-4. Inspects all persons & companies involved in septage pumping, hauling, treatment, and land application for compliance with applicable Code and Law. Reviews all new applications, investigates complaints and reports to the Assistant Environmental Health Director any problems that should arise in that program. Inspects OSTDS facilities to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and Operating Permit criteria. Provides support and training to coworkers seeking certification in the OSTDS program. Assists with inspections and collect water samples for regulated, contracted or private water systems in compliance with 64E-8 F.A.C. in Alachua, Bradford and Union Counties. Enter inspections and sample data in database. Investigates assigned nuisance complaints and "failing" OSTDS systems to determine cause of OSTDS failure. Recommends remedial actions to owners/operators. Issues and executes sanitary nuisance abatement orders. Assists in disaster/emergency situations as directed. Prepares technical reports and correspondence, initiates preliminary requests for legal action and when necessary, testifies before the County Code Enforcement Board, Administrative Hearing or Circuit Court to obtain compliance with applicable statutes and codes. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to manage and schedule timed activities. Able to handle adverse situations and maintain professional composure. Ability to lift a septic tank manhole at 50 lbs. Must be able to identify slight changes in colors and textures. Must be able to perform work duties in outdoor temperatures and conditions. Ability to read, comprehend, and communicate administrative laws.

Qualifications: Minimum - Must obtain and/or maintain certification in OSTDS as an Environmental Health Professional in accordance with Chapter 381.0101, Florida Statutes and Chapter 64E-18, Florida Administrative Code. Must possess a valid Florida Drivers License.

Where You Will Work: DOH-Alachua 224 SE 24th Street Gainesville FL 32641 (Daily travel)