Environmental Scientist: Solid Waste Compliance Inspector

State of Utah Office of the Governor • Salt Lake City, UT

1d • $25 - $53 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Environmental Quality is looking for an Environmental Scientist for the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control. This position ensures the proper management of non-hazardous solid waste facilities throughout the state of Utah by conducting regular compliance inspections. As the Solid Waste Compliance Inspector you will manage the full compliance and enforcement lifecycle, evaluating facility operations against environmental laws and tracking violations to final resolution. Additionally, this position serves as a programmatic resource, collaborating with facility operators, government agencies, and other stakeholders to resolve non-compliance and protect human health and the environment. This position may be filled at any of the advertised levels listed below. Salary depends on experience and the job level offered within the series.

Requirements

• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex, technical environmental laws and regulations.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain scientific or technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Comfortable interacting with various public and private entities.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, prioritize, and execute fieldwork efficiently and with high integrity.
• Has a valid driver’s license.
• Must successfully pass a criminal history check.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Engineering, Geology, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Two or more years of experience in environmental regulatory compliance or solid waste management.
• Experience in conflict resolution, with the ability to defuse tense situations and negotiate cooperative solutions with regulated parties.
• Familiarity with RCRA waste determinations (Title 40 CFR Parts 261 and 262) or Utah Administrative Code counterparts (R315-261 and R315-262).

Responsibilities

• Conducts compliance inspections at non-hazardous solid waste facilities, including landfills, transfer stations, and composting facilities.
• Reviews facility operations, records, and permits to verify compliance and resolve violations of state laws and regulations.
• Prepares inspection reports, compliance letters, and administrative enforcement orders; maintains accurate electronic records.
• Interfaces with facility operators, state and federal agencies, and internal divisions to establish remediation standards and compliance schedules.
• Provides regulatory education and technical guidance to facility operators and solid waste generators.
• Requires routine day travel (approximately 10% of the time) and occasional overnight travel (less than 5%).

Benefits

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level