Environmental Specialist I - 37021127

State of Florida • Pensacola, FL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Specialist I for the Onsite Sewage Program (OSP) plays a crucial role at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection by overseeing the inspection and regulation of septic systems in their service hub. This position ensures that new constructions, repairs, and modifications of septic systems comply with state environmental standards, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment. This position is located within the Onsite Sewage Program, a vital component of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's efforts to manage and protect the state's water resources. Primary Responsibilities: This is an entry level environmental professional position in the Department’s Onsite Sewage Program responsible for conducting low-to-mid complexity application and project reviews, site inspections, data entry and analysis, drafting reports, permits, and other correspondence. The job requires a general understanding of scientific principles and skills in applying rules and instructions to accomplish a variety of job functions related to environmental protection and regulation. Duties include but are not limited to: Performing routine construction installation inspections and re-inspections for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) to ensure compliance with Chapter 62-6, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). Reviewing OSTDS permit applications and site evaluation information to establish system construction criteria in compliance with appropriate Florida Statutes and Chapter 62-6 F.A.C. Advising members of the public on OSTDS program requirements and methods of complying with applicable Florida Statutes and rules. Conducting follow-up activities to assist OSTDS operators in returning to compliance without enforcement. Investigating complaints and taking the necessary enforcement actions to bring into compliance. Providing technical assistance and consults with applicants, contractors, engineers, and other governmental agencies regarding Department rules, guidelines, and policies pertaining to OSTDS. Entering documentation and data into designated databases. Participating in training activities and continuing education programs to enhance skills and familiarity with program requirements, regulations, and OSTDS technologies. Performing work assignments independently and under general direct supervision. Performs other duties as needed.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical or natural sciences or ability to acquire and apply this knowledge through specialized training.
• Knowledge of field sampling techniques for soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediment or ability to acquire and apply this knowledge through specialized training.
• Skills in identifying Florida soils and wet season ground water table determinations using the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Soils methodologies or ability to acquire these skills through specialized training.
• Skills in understanding and applying applicable State and Federal statutes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to environmental programs or ability to acquire and apply these skills through specialized training.
• Skills in determining work priorities to ensure timely completion of work assignments without close supervision.
• Skills in maintaining effective and productive working relationships with others.
• Skills and proficiency in computer operations and programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, SharePoint, Lists, and Outlook.
• Ability to solve problems and make decisions informed by applicable Florida statutes and rules, forms, guidance, and policies adopted by the Department of Environmental Protection.
• Ability to communicate effectively in a tactful and courteous manner both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific or technical data or ability to acquire through specialized training the skills needed to conduct these activities.
• Ability to follow directions and policies as established by the Department of Environmental Protection.
• Physical ability to conduct site visits, field inspections, evaluations, and investigations in temperatures and weather conditions typical of Florida and navigating areas with rough terrain.
• Ability to demonstrate personal integrity, responsibility, and accountability.
• At least 4 years of verifiable related experience in public or environmental health.
• Post-secondary degrees may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis.
• A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Ability to travel, including some overnight.
• Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.
• Environmental Health Professional Certification in Onsite Sewage Systems, or be a Registered Sanitarian, or be an Environmental Health Technician, or the equivalent under s.381.0101, Florida Statutes, within 6 months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Performing routine construction installation inspections and re-inspections for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) to ensure compliance with Chapter 62-6, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.).
• Reviewing OSTDS permit applications and site evaluation information to establish system construction criteria in compliance with appropriate Florida Statutes and Chapter 62-6 F.A.C.
• Advising members of the public on OSTDS program requirements and methods of complying with applicable Florida Statutes and rules.
• Conducting follow-up activities to assist OSTDS operators in returning to compliance without enforcement.
• Investigating complaints and taking the necessary enforcement actions to bring into compliance.
• Providing technical assistance and consults with applicants, contractors, engineers, and other governmental agencies regarding Department rules, guidelines, and policies pertaining to OSTDS.
• Entering documentation and data into designated databases.
• Participating in training activities and continuing education programs to enhance skills and familiarity with program requirements, regulations, and OSTDS technologies.
• Performing work assignments independently and under general direct supervision.

Benefits

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions
• Tuition waivers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed