Environmental Program Consultant
About The Position
This Environmental Program Consultant (EPC) serves as the technical lead responsible for coordination and implementation of the Area Wide Optimization Program (AWOP), which aims to help water systems achieve higher levels of water quality and decrease the risk of waterborne disease outbreaks. The EPC will also act as the Public Water Supply (PWS) Section training coordinator, identifying training needs and arranging or providing training. This role involves frequent travel for meetings, training, and engagement with water systems and DEQ staff. The position requires the ability to interpret regulatory documents, analyze data, identify trends, and communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences. Site visits may involve navigating rough terrain and working in various environmental conditions. The position is open to applicants across the state and can be based in Raleigh or any of the DEQ Regional Offices. This position currently qualifies for a hybrid telework option.
Requirements
- Knowledge of state and federal guidelines governing the permitting, design, operation, and maintenance of water treatment and distribution systems.
- Knowledge of water treatment principles (e.g., particle stabilization, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection).
- Knowledge of principles and practices of civil engineering and water chemistry as applied to the design and operation of water treatment and distribution systems.
- Ability to comprehend and properly interpret regulatory documents.
- Ability to perform detailed review and analysis of data sets.
- Ability to identify relationships and trends conducive to system evaluation and improvement.
- Ability to effectively communicate regulatory and technical information to a range of audiences (little to no subject matter knowledge to subject matter experts).
- Valid Driver's License required for driving state vehicles.
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Previous applicants must reapply to be considered.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the technical lead responsible for coordination and implementation of the Area Wide Optimization Program (AWOP).
- Develop and analyze water system performance data to identify opportunities for technical assistance that will improve water system treatment performance and/or water quality.
- Coordinate AWOP Team activities, including meetings, determination of water system optimization status, and report generation.
- Provide expertise in the development of guidelines and procedures relating to AWOP technical assistance and organize/participate in AWOP technical assistance activities.
- Provide operational process assistance and training to public water system personnel for achievement of AWOP goals and elevated public health protection.
- Attend national and EPA Region 4 AWOP planning meetings.
- Act as the Public Water Supply (PWS) Section training coordinator.
- Lead and assist with the development, organization, and implementation of a training program to promote consistency for program initiatives, sanitary surveys procedures, data entry, enforcement activities, and regulatory changes/updates.
- Develop, maintain, and coordinate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), guidance documents, training materials, and training events.
- Instruct in schools developed by the Water Operators Association for certification of water treatment facility operators.
- Assist with representing the Section on the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) for natural and man-made disasters.
- Assist with Section initiatives to promote resilience in the regulated community from both natural and man-made hazards.
- Perform miscellaneous special projects as assigned by Section management.
Benefits
- Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
- Comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
