OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 64856545

State of Florida • VIERA, FL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Specialist I conducts inspections and site evaluations related to septic systems, Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs), and other regulated facilities in Brevard County. The role reviews septic system applications, writes and issues permits, enforces applicable regulations, and issues enforcement actions for non-compliant ATUs. It also includes entering inspection and work data, investigating sanitary nuisance complaints, and educating the public about environmental health matters. The position supports protection of public health and requires obtaining certification for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems within six months of hire.

The work involves field activities such as profiling soil with a bucket auger to a depth of 72 inches, using field measuring devices and other tools, operating four-wheel-drive vehicles, and traveling to locations throughout Brevard County. The employee attends training sessions, seminars, and meetings concerning environmental health regulations under the department’s jurisdiction. The position is based at the Florida Department of Health office in Viera, Florida, and may require emergency duty outside normal work hours or days.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 30 semester hours or 40 quarter hours of coursework in public health, environmental health, environmental science, or a physical or biological science.
• Obtain certification for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems within six months of hire.
• Ability to use a PC, laptops, Microsoft programs, other computer programs, and general office equipment.
• Ability to use a bucket auger to profile soils to a depth of 72 inches and to use field measuring devices.
• Ability to lift more than 50 pounds.
• Ability to travel to locations throughout Brevard County, up to 100 or more miles per day, in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work outdoors all day, including in inclement weather and temperatures above 95 degrees.
• Ability to work before, during, or beyond normal work hours or days in the event of an emergency.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to learn and communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of septic systems and Aerobic Treatment Units.
• Conduct field inspections of regulated facilities.
• Issue enforcement actions for non-compliant Aerobic Treatment Units and enforce septic system regulations.
• Enter data for inspections and other completed work.
• Review septic system applications and write and issue septic system permits.
• Use a bucket auger to dig holes up to six feet deep and profile soil for color and texture.
• Conduct site evaluations to determine septic system suitability.
• Operate four-wheel-drive vehicles and use field tools and measuring devices.
• Participate in public education individually, in groups, and by phone.
• Attend training sessions, seminars, and meetings to learn about environmental health regulations under the department’s jurisdiction.
• Investigate sanitary nuisance complaints.
• Protect public health.

Benefits

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (mandatory).
• Participation in state group insurance, subject to eligibility requirements.
• Workers’ compensation (mandatory, if needed).
• Reemployment assistance (unemployment compensation) (mandatory, if needed).
• Deferred compensation (voluntary).
• Employee Assistance Program (voluntary).

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level