Environmental Specialist II

Job Information

Agency Dept of Environmental Quality Division Waste Management

Job Classification Title Environmental Specialist II (NS)

Position Number 60034606

Grade NC14

About Us

The primary mission of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is to provide science-based environmental stewardship for the health and prosperity of all North Carolinians. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of North Carolina's environmental resources. The organization, which has offices from the mountains to the coast, administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and the public's health, and works to advance in all-of-the-above energy strategy that fits North Carolina's needs. DEQ also offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public and encourages responsible behavior with respect to the environment through education programs provided at DEQ facilities and through the state's school system. DEQ touches the lives of all North Carolinians in many ways to enhance and ensure our quality of life.

Description of Work

This Environmental Specialist II position is located within the Field Operations Branch of the Solid Waste Section in the Division of Waste Management. The primary purpose of the position is responsible for the protection and safeguarding of human health and the environment from the potential adverse effects of improper solid waste management by ensuring compliance with the N. C. General Statutes pertaining to solid waste management and Solid Waste Management Rules codified at 15A NCAC 13B. The assigned area of coverage for this position will be Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Caldwell, Catawba, Surry, Watauga, and Wilkes counties located in the northwestern portion of the state.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducts inspections at solid waste management facilities and sites to ensure compliance with rules and permit conditions.
• Provides technical assistance (written and verbal) to local governments, solid waste management facilities, industry, and the public on the proper management and reuse of various waste types.
• Conducts recycling and resource recovery facility inspections for the Tax Certification Program.
• Investigates unpermitted illegal disposal sites.
• Initiates enforcement actions for noncompliance.
• Supports statewide efforts in preparation for and recovery from natural and man-made disasters regarding the proper management of solid waste.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Recruitment Range: $52,592 - $66,592 *This position will require occasional travel to project locations within the State of North Carolina.*

Important: This posting closes at 11:59:59 PM the night BEFORE the End Date above.

The Division of Waste Management is responsible for protecting the public health and environment through assuring that solid and hazardous waste and underground storage tanks are managed properly, and existing contamination is cleaned up across the State of North Carolina. This is accomplished through the Hazardous Waste, Solid Waste, Superfund and Underground Storage Tank Sections, and the Brownfields Redevelopment Section.

If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Visit to learn more.

This position currently qualifies for a hybrid telework option with routine office and remote workdays. The NC Department of Environmental Quality trusts our employees to be self-motivated and successful in hybrid/remote roles. Telework options are subject to change at the discretion of management.

Minimum Education and Experience

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details. Bachelor's degree in one of the agricultural, biological, engineering, environmental or natural resource sciences or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and two years of experience related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.