Environmental Program Consultant

State of North Carolina • Raleigh, NC

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

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.

The Water Quality Permitting Program Consultant is responsible for administrative and professional duties associated with supporting Water Quality Permitting Programs with a specific focus on the 401 Certification and Buffer Authorization programs (“the programs”). The position engages in administrative and technical activities associated with the administration of laws, policies, and rules established by the US Environmental Protection Agency, the State’s Environmental Management Commission, and the North Carolina General Assembly to protect the state’s water resources.

Requirements

• Master'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 three (3) years of experience related to the area of assignment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all regulatory products (401 Certifications, Buffer Authorizations, Mitigation Approvals) are administratively supported and completed within statutory and regulatory timelines.
• Quality Assurance and Quality Control of database entries into DEQ’s Basinwide Information Management System (BIMS) and Laserfiche, DEQ’s electronic document repository.
• Draft 401 Water Quality Certifications and Buffer Authorizations for staff review.
• Prepare analytical summaries and reports on the programs using applied knowledge of water quality permitting regulatory frameworks.
• Provide analysis of, and recommendations for, policy changes within the Water Quality Permitting Section to support efficient operation and adaptation of the programs to rule changes and other legal or technical developments.
• Serve as a back-up to other administrative staff who process incoming applications.

Benefits

• If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees