Environmental Compliance Coordinator Utilities

City of Lebanon•Lebanon, TN

23d

About The Position

Reporting directly to the Utilities Director, this position is responsible for managing environmental compliance for the City of Lebanon Utilities Department. Duties include planning, organizing, directing, and coordinating activities related to environmental and regulatory compliance, permit requirements, and coordination of environmental activities with department managers. The position also provides highly complex staff assistance to the Utilities Director and the Utilities Department management team. This position serves as a technical subject matter expert and compliance resource and does not replace or supersede the authority or responsibility of licensed operators designated as Operator in Direct Charge, as required by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). Regulatory submittals prepared on behalf of the Utilities Department must be reviewed by the appropriate department manager and the Utilities Director prior to submission. Under general direction of a higher-level manager, the incumbent provides technical expertise and support to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and policies. While this position does not have direct supervisory authority, it includes providing guidance and indirect oversight to professional, technical, and support staff involved in environmental programs and initiatives. The position requires a high degree of expertise, independence, judgment, and discretion in matters impacting regulatory compliance and environmental risk management.

Requirements

Ability to analyze complex environmental and regulatory issues and recommend effective solutions.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental laws, regulations, and permitting requirements.
Ability to interpret and apply City policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Knowledge of wastewater collection and treatment systems, water treatment and distribution systems, industrial pretreatment, and water conservation programs.
Knowledge of sampling, testing, laboratory procedures, and certification requirements.
Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise technical and administrative reports.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Ability to present technical information to management, public groups, and City Council.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Knowledge of environmental investigation, inspection, enforcement, project management, and contract administration principles.
Ability to train staff in environmental compliance procedures and best practices.
Proficiency with standard office software and equipment.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related field is required.
Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in environmental compliance, including regulatory compliance and project management.
A valid Tennessee driver’s license with a clear driving record is required. If the selected candidate does not possess a valid Tennessee driver’s license at the time of hire, one must be obtained within 30 days.

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree or MBA is preferred.
Experience working for a state or federal environmental agency is preferred.
Possession of one or more of the following Tennessee certifications is preferred but not required: Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade IV Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade II Sewer Collections Grade II Water Distribution
Certifications are not required for appointments but are considered beneficial for understanding utility operations and regulatory coordination.
CDL training is available.

Responsibilities

Work with regulatory agencies, stakeholders, and internal departments to implement and maintain environmental compliance programs.
Monitor, interpret, and remain current on emerging and updated environmental regulations applicable to all utility departments; synthesize and communicate relevant changes to department managers.
Attend regulatory update sessions, conferences, webinars, and meetings related to water, wastewater, and environmental compliance.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations and permit requirements.
Assist with water quality monitoring programs, conduct data analysis, and prepare technical reports for regulatory agencies.
Assist department managers and the Utilities Director in developing and implementing department goals, objectives, policies, and procedures related to environmental compliance.
Assist with planning, organizing, and coordinating environmental compliance activities, including permit compliance, water quality, wastewater treatment, water conservation, and solid waste programs.
Lead and coordinate development of the Utilities Environmental Compliance Work Plan in collaboration with department managers; recommend projects and activities; and review work products, methods, and procedures.
Assist with budget implementation and forecasting of staffing, equipment, materials, and supply needs.
Provide or coordinate environmental compliance training for staff and assist with public education initiatives.
Coordinate and prepare draft responses to Notices of Violation and other regulatory actions for review and approval by the appropriate department manager and Utilities Director prior to submission.
Conduct environmental audits and inspections to identify and address compliance issues.
Review water usage reports and track progress of the water conservation program; recommend modifications to ensure compliance.
Provide land-use and permit management support, including obtaining environmental clearances for projects as needed.
Prepare reports, plans, correspondence, and required documentation; ensure accurate and timely submission of mandated reports.
Coordinate with outside agencies related to utility operations, including water treatment, wastewater treatment, collections, distribution, and conservation.
Review and analyze federal and state legislation, statutes, and regulations related to water, wastewater, recycled water, water conservation, and solid waste.
Research and assist with applications for funding opportunities related to utility programs.
Represent the Utilities Department to outside agencies, organizations, and professional groups; participate in committees and provide technical assistance.
Consult with industrial users regarding environmental and regulatory compliance.
Assist with environmental monitoring and field support activities, including: Industrial user sampling and inspections Residential sampling for distribution system monitoring Evaluation of wastewater treatment plant upsets Analysis of NPDES permit compliance Field investigations and enforcement activities Investigation of customer complaints related to water and sewer issues
Perform related duties as assigned.