Environmental Protection Specialist III, Water Quality - Durango

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Environmental Protection Specialist III serves as the water quality resource lead and expert for the Region 5 Environmental Team, supporting the Region Planning and Environmental Manager (RPEM), environmental staff, the Federal Highway Administration, and engineering programs during critical phases of project completion, construction, and maintenance. The role helps ensure transportation projects comply with environmental laws, permits, and agency requirements while protecting environmental resources in southwestern Colorado. The specialist administers the regional water quality program, manages construction stormwater permits and compliance, conducts audits and inspections, maintains program records, and advises staff and contractors on water quality requirements and best management practices. The position also performs environmental planning and management for construction, maintenance, access, and utility permits; determines NEPA categorical exclusion types; manages categorical exclusion clearances; assists with larger NEPA projects; and advises design engineers and consultants on applicable environmental requirements. The position is based in a hybrid work environment after a training period, with a mix of office and remote work. Typical hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with flexible scheduling possible. The role requires travel throughout southwest Colorado for meetings, training, and site visits, including occasional overnight travel. Approximately 40% of the work is in the field and 60% in the office. Fieldwork may involve variable terrain, all weather conditions, and proximity to heavy traffic; operating CDOT vehicles is required. Extended evening or weekend hours may occasionally be needed for meetings or training.

Requirements

At least 8 years of full-time professional experience in environmental science, environmental engineering, hydrologic science, water resources, natural resources, biology, urban planning, construction management, or other work related to the major duties of the position, including at least 4 years focused on stormwater management, water quality, and/or hydrology; alternatively, a combination of relevant education and experience totaling at least 8 years.
A current valid driver's license is required if operating a state or personal motor vehicle is an essential function of the position.
Must pass pre-employment screening, which may include social security number trace, criminal and public court records checks, educational records checks, and driving records checks.
If qualifying through education, submit college transcripts showing the school, completed credit hours, and degree conferral where applicable; foreign credentials require an official NACES evaluation report.
Submit a complete application, supplemental questionnaire, cover letter, and detailed chronological resume; submit transcripts if using education to qualify.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated success with duties listed in the job description.
State service experience related to the duties of the position.
High work and personal ethics and integrity.
State of Colorado Certificate for a Transportation Erosion Control Supervisor.
Ability to prepare, implement, and maintain a Stormwater Management Plan.
Comprehensive knowledge of and experience with construction stormwater management inspections.
Familiarity with water quality laws, rules, and regulations, including local agency, CDPHE, EPA, and FHWA requirements.
Ability to teach, explain, demonstrate, and clarify stormwater plans, specifications, and regulations to construction staff.
Strong time and project management skills, including prioritization and multitasking.
Ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and projects in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in team problem-solving situations.
Excellent reasoning, investigative, analytical, and problem-solving ability.
Excellent facilitation, presentation, and written and oral communication skills.
Strong attention to technical detail and accuracy.
Experience with electronic stormwater permitting software.
CDOT stormwater management field inspection experience.
Passion for safety.
Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite, Gmail, and Google Applications, and ability to quickly learn other software systems.

Responsibilities

Support the Region Planning and Environmental Manager with administration of the regional water quality program.
Determine the need for, obtain, and deactivate permits, including Colorado Discharge Permit System stormwater permits.
Manage the construction stormwater program to protect state waters.
Conduct CDPS stormwater permit audits and advise staff and contractors on compliance, including best management practice implementation and repairs.
Complete paperwork and maintain records for the water quality program.
Advise maintenance staff regarding open CDPS permits; conduct and coordinate post-construction inspections, complete associated paperwork, and provide maintenance oversight.
Ensure compliance with environmental commitments unrelated to water quality, as appropriate.
Perform environmental planning and management for construction and maintenance programs and access and utility permits to determine NEPA categorical exclusion types for project clearance.
Manage categorical exclusion NEPA project clearances and assist with larger NEPA projects.
Ensure incorporation of applicable federal, state, and local agency laws and permits, including Section 404, SB 40, and stormwater construction permits.
Advise and clarify environmental requirements for CDOT design engineers and consultants.
Perform other job duties as assigned.