Assistant Engineer (Environmental) / Engineer Trainee (3 Positions)-NY HELPS
Environmental Conservation - Stony Brook, NY
posted 4 months ago
About the position
The Assistant Engineer (Environmental) / Engineer Trainee positions are part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). These roles are designed to assist with the implementation of the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) and Coastal Management Sections. The selected candidates will be responsible for reviewing, commenting on, and approving permit applications, engineering reports, and plans and specifications. They will draft corresponding SPDES permits, respond to public comments, and issue final permits, ensuring compliance with Article 17 of the Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), 6 NYCRR Part 750, and Department guidance. In addition to permit management, the Assistant Engineers / Engineer Trainees will engage with the Community Assistance Visit (CAV) program to develop strong community relationships. They will assist with the administration of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through audits and provide technical assistance to local floodplain administrators. The role also involves representing the Department's interests in Shore Protection programs by providing regulatory guidance during all phases of project development and construction. The candidates will coordinate with the federal EPA and local municipalities to address complaints, enforce the Multi Sector General Permit (MSGP), and advance Department interests. They may also manage assigned grant programs, which includes grant scoring, tracking, reporting, and contract and project management. Field inspections at permitted facilities will be part of their duties, where they will track permit compliance, initiate enforcement actions, and prepare documentation for administrative hearings or court. The role requires effective communication skills, as the Assistant Engineers / Engineer Trainees will need to convey factual information verbally and in writing, organize and analyze data, and provide sound recommendations. They will also perform various computer tasks and work collaboratively in teams, maintaining effective working relationships. Public speaking may be required during interagency meetings and work groups related to assigned program areas. The positions require physical capabilities, including the ability to lift 50 lbs. to access sanitary sewers and work in various terrain and weather conditions.
Responsibilities
- Assist with the implementation of the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and Coastal Management Sections.
- Review, comment on, and approve permit applications, engineering reports, and plans & specifications.
- Draft corresponding State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits, respond to public comments, and issue final permits.
- Review CEHA permit applications and field inquiries and complaints in municipalities.
- Develop strong community relationships through the Community Assistance Visit (CAV) program.
- Assist with the administration of the NFIP program through audits and provide technical assistance to local floodplain administrators.
- Represent Department interests in Shore Protection programs by providing regulatory guidance during project development and construction phases.
- Assist with the regional SPDES Stormwater Program and coordinate with the federal EPA and local municipalities.
- Manage grant programs as assigned, including grant scoring, tracking, reporting, and contract management.
- Conduct field inspections at permitted facilities and track permit compliance.
- Initiate and follow up on enforcement actions and prepare enforcement documentation.
- Communicate and convey specific factual information verbally and in writing, organize and analyze data, and write/edit inspection reports.
- Perform varied computer tasks and work in teams, maintaining effective working relationships.
- Participate in interagency meetings, work groups, and committees related to assigned program areas.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or engineering technology, or proof of passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND one year of full-time engineering experience.
- For Assistant Engineer (Environmental), proof of passing the NCEES FE AND a qualifying bachelor's degree or higher, or proof of passing the NCEES FE AND one year of full-time qualifying engineering experience.
- Qualifying degrees include various engineering disciplines such as Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, etc.
- One year of full-time experience in sanitary, public health, or environmental engineering.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with public speaking and community engagement.
- Familiarity with environmental regulations and compliance processes.
- Ability to work independently in various terrain and weather conditions.
Benefits
- Dental insurance
- Loan forgiveness
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Affordable Health Care options
- Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
- NYS Deferred Compensation plan
- Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
- Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System
- Holiday & Paid Time Off
