RRC - Natural Resources Specialist II - Permit Writer - Environmental Permits

Job Overview The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is a state agency with primary regulatory jurisdiction over the oil and natural gas industry, pipeline transport, and surface mining operations. The RRC seeks a Natural Resources Specialist II, Permit Writer – Environmental Permits (00058765) to evaluate moderately complex permits for the Environmental Permits and Support Unit in the Technical Permitting Section of the Oil and Gas Division. The position is located in Austin, Texas. Responsibilities Review permit applications (new, renewals, amendments, or transfers) relating to surface waste management operations and prepare draft permits. Perform technical review of moderately complex permit applications filed under the Commission's oil and gas waste management regulations, including Texas Administrative Code, Title 16, Part 1, Chapter 3 and Chapter 4. Participate in moderately complex soils, geological, and hydrological studies and identify potential problems resulting from the maintenance, use, and closure of oil and gas waste management facility operations. Review and interpret soil maps, geological maps, cross‐sections, engineered drawings, and plats or other subsurface or surface information. Evaluate data and analysis of issues, and assist in the preparation of reports and recommendations. Interpret, review, compare, and evaluate documentation and literature to enforce Commission rules and statutes. Review moderately complex waste treatment and disposal applications for technical accuracy and completion. Assist client inquiries by phone, e‑mail, or in person and resolve issues or discrepancies through written or verbal communication with operators and their representatives. Research and interpret hardcopy records, microfilm, and databases. Meet and maintain measured work standards with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. Perform additional related essential tasks to maintain production workflow. Occasional travel may be required (approximately 5% of the time). Required Qualifications Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in environmental science, natural resources, biology, ecology, or a related field. Working knowledge of environmental protection practices and statistical methods for assessing natural resources data. One or more years of experience with a regulatory agency, environmental protection, oil and gas industry, or related field (experience may be substituted for education on a year‑for‑year basis). Valid Texas Driver's license and a good driving record. Demonstrated ability to work 8 AM–5 PM Monday–Friday in downtown Austin, with occasional flexible hours, overtime, and weekends. Proficiency in Windows‑based applications and/or terminal‑based systems and databases. Excellent verbal, written, and telecommunication skills. Preferred Qualifications Licensed as a Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) by the Soil Science Society of America; or Professional Geoscientist (PG) or Geoscientist in Training (GIT) in Texas or a U.S. state with reciprocity. Two to three years of experience with a regulatory agency, environmental protection, waste management industry, or related field. Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills. Experience in environmental services, remediation, and assessment. Experience in oil and gas regulatory functions and/or oilfield operations. Knowledge of the Railroad Commission's rules, policies, and procedures. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills. Knowledge of professional office procedures and protocols. Skill in college‑level mathematics, geometry, chemistry, and a working knowledge of scientific principles and techniques. Understanding and ability to apply geological and environmental quality concepts, theories, and principles. Technical writing skill, excellent organizational skills, and high accuracy. Valid Texas Driver's License and good driving record. Skill in using mainframe, Microsoft Office, and other Windows‑based software applications. Skill in basic data analysis techniques. Skill in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing. Meticulous attention to detail with high accuracy. Ability to retrieve and analyze information from hard‑copy files, microfilm, and computer databases. Ability to understand, communicate, and interpret moderately complex environmental and geological information. Ability to plan and coordinate programs and activities. Ability to learn and understand oil and gas policy and procedures, and interpret processes. Ability to file, sort, organize, and distribute documents and retrieve files. Ability to operate copy machine, fax, scanner, and other general office equipment. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Physical ability to lift, carry, and move up to 30 pounds. Ability to stoop, reach low and high, push and pull heavy file drawers and/or cart. Ability to stand or sit for long periods while performing administrative or technical duties. Ability to work independently and on a team. Ability to work well under pressure and be flexible. Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Ability to maintain punctuality and regular attendance. Ability to exercise tact and courtesy. Ability to discern colors and read diagrams, charts, maps, and reference materials. Physical Requirements Reach high and low; open, close, and retrieve files from file cabinets and operate computer keyboard and appropriate office equipment. Walk or stand for considerable amounts of time in all weather conditions. Use sense of smell; possess visual acuity, depth perception, and ability to discern colors. Work Hours and Telework Standard office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The commission offers alternate schedules that do not adversely affect operations. Telework may be provided in accordance with the agency's approved Telework Plan and can be discussed during the interview process. Benefits Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and at least 12 paid holidays per year. Health premiums 100% paid for full‑time employees. Tuition reimbursement. Wellness and exercise leave. Application Process Applications must be submitted online through Work in Texas (WIT). Applicants must complete the CAPPS Recruit Prescreening Questionnaire. Official transcripts, DD214 or DD1300, copies of license/certifications, or other minimum requirement validations will be requested at the time of job offer. The Railroad Commission of Texas only accepts online applications for this posting. The commission will not sponsor or take over visa sponsorship for any employment. Equal Opportunity Statement The Railroad Commission of Texas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability. The Railroad Commission of Texas is a tobacco‑free workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr Centralized Accounting and Payroll/Personnel System