Mid-Level NPDES Permit Writer

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. ERG provides technical expertise and high-quality service across the water sector to help improve the environment and public health. Committed to attracting and retaining top talent in the water quality industry, ERG offers a casual and collaborative work environment, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth and development.ERG's Fairfax, VA office is seeking a Mid-Level Environmental Scientist with 3-10 years of experience supporting Clean Water Act-related environmental efforts across the United States. This role is especially well suited for an NPDES permit writer who can independently manage substantial portions of the permitting process, apply federal and state requirements to complex discharges, communicate effectively with regulators and permittees, and contribute to multiple projects at once.In this role, the selected candidate will work alongside experienced NPDES professionals and multidisciplinary teams that include engineers, scientists, policy specialists, data analysts, and regulatory experts. Responsibilities may include supporting the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, collecting and managing data, analyzing information, conducting desktop reviews and assessments of program documents, and preparing technical reports. Technical work will be performed under the direct supervision and mentorship of experienced ERG staff. Job Description:Develop, review, and revise individual and general NPDES permits, fact sheets or statements of basis, public notices, response to comments documents, and supporting administrative recordsReview permit applications, discharge monitoring reports, facility records, engineering information, prior permits, inspection findings, and other technical materials for completeness and regulatory relevanceCharacterize industrial and municipal processes, wastewater sources, treatment systems, discharge locations, receiving waters, pollutants of concern, and operational conditionsDevelop technology-based effluent limitations using applicable effluent limitations guidelines, secondary treatment standards, best professional judgment, and other federal or state requirementsEvaluate the need for water quality-based effluent limitations, including reasonable potential analyses and interpretation of applicable water quality standards, criteria, wasteload allocations, and implementation proceduresCalculate effluent limitations and monitoring requirements using appropriate statistical, technical, and regulatory methodsAddress whole effluent toxicity, mixing zones, antidegradation, impaired waters, total maximum daily loads, other water quality issues, as applicableDevelop monitoring, reporting, recordkeeping, special condition, best management practice, compliance schedule, and pretreatment requirementsReview technical analyses prepared by others and perform quality-control checks for regulatory consistency, technical accuracy, and completenessResearch and interpret the Clean Water Act, federal NPDES regulations, effluent guidelines, EPA guidance, state regulations, water quality standards, program policies, and relevant permitting precedentsCoordinate with permitting authorities, facility representatives, technical specialists, and other interested parties to obtain information and resolve permitting issuesSupport public participation activities, including preparation of public notices, evaluation of comments, development of responses, and revision of proposed permitsPrepare technical memoranda, regulatory analyses, standard operating procedures, permit templates, guidance materials, and training materialsTrack assignments, budgets, schedules, deliverables, and outstanding information needs across multiple concurrent permits or projectsParticipate in meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, permittees, and project teams and clearly communicate technical and regulatory conclusionsProvide technical guidance and review support to junior staff and contribute to the development of consistent, efficient permitting approachesSupport NPDES program evaluations, permit quality reviews, backlog reduction efforts, process improvements, and training activitiesContribute to proposals, scopes of work, cost estimates, and other business-development activities, as appropriate Qualifications and Skills:Experience with NPDES program implementation or other water-related environmental programsFamiliarity with the NPDES permitting program and regulations pertaining to wastewater and stormwaterMS, BS, or BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Engineering or related disciplineOutstanding written and oral communication skillsStrong data analytical skillsProficiency in conducting desktop researchAbility to work alone and within a multi-disciplinary teamAbility and willingness to travel locally and across the United States as necessary. Little to no travel is anticipated during the first year of employment but may be required over timeProficiency in Microsoft Word and ExcelAcquaintance with erosion and sediment control practices for construction sites and other stormwater pollution prevention best management practicesKnowledge of municipal and/or industrial wastewater treatment processes ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. If you're a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG's online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at View email address on job-api.jobget.com or call View phone number on job-api.jobget.com. ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.