Environmental Specialist II - Drinking Water Field Services

State of Nebraska • Lincoln, NE

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Under limited supervision, as a member of the Field Services and Operator Training Section of the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment Public Drinking Water Program, this role provides assistance and oversight to public water systems to ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations. The section is responsible for the inspection of public water systems, provision of on-site technical assistance to water systems, and the training and licensure of water system operators. This role plays a key part in ensuring citizens have access to safe, reliable sources of drinking water. While there is opportunity to interact with water system personnel and professionals throughout the state, primary responsibilities will be providing assistance and oversight to public water systems within a six-county region of eastern Nebraska. This work impacts virtually every resident and visitor of the State of Nebraska.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in the physical sciences, natural sciences, environmental science, geology, biology, agronomy, civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, hydrology, community and regional planning, or a related field.
• Experience may substitute for education or a year-for-year basis.
• Must have the qualifications necessary to obtain a Grade I Water Operator license as listed in Title 179 NAC 10-005,01(3)(a, b, c, d) within four years of hire.
• Valid driver’s license or ability to provide independent transportation.
• Ability to walk on uneven terrains and steep slopes
• Ability to bend and stoop
• Ability to work Independently in the East Central area of the State (Cass, Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy, Saunders, and Washington Counties).
• Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Submit a resume or list on the application specific detailed experience relevant to the position in years and months
• Submit a current list of at least professional references (previous employers) with valid telephone numbers
• Knowledge of: general principles of hydrology, geology, engineering, mechanics, electricity, chemistry, and biology as they apply to the operation and evaluation of public water supply systems to include source water, treatment, storage, delivery, and protection of drinking water.
• Skill in: communicating with individuals and groups with varying technical backgrounds to collect and relay information; prioritizing workloads: working independently.
• Ability to: learn, interpret, and apply applicable Federal, State, and local regulations pertaining to safe drinking water; read and understand water system plans and specifications; understand necessary operation and maintenance procedures, assess potential public health risks; provide guidance and technical assistance to operators and local officials; and prepare written reports of findings.

Nice To Haves

• Experience operating a public water system, including work with water production, distribution, storage, and treatment facilities, with current licensure as a water operator desired.

Responsibilities

• Conduct surveys and inspections of public water systems to ensure compliance with State and Federal safe drinking water regulations.
• Provide on-site enforcement and guidance on violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to public water system operators and owners.
• Provide technical assistance to water system operators and owners on modifications necessary for water system compliance.
• Investigate complaints of potential health risks associated with a public water system.
• Attend public meetings to explain SDWA regulations and compliance requirements to public water system owners, local officials, and water consumers.
• Conduct inspections of new public water well sites to assist in determining suitability for both water quality and quantity.
• Oversee portions of the construction process of public water wells, storage facilities, distribution systems and water system facilities and assist with final inspections.
• Prepare technical reports of findings following water system surveys and inspections.
• Participate in developing coursework and provide instruction for water operators at conferences and in the classroom.
• Attend public functions to promote safe drinking water and education of the public relating to public water systems.
• Participate in diverse projects within the scope of the Department’s mission.
• Work independently.

Benefits

• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave equating to 24 days your first year, accruing immediately
• Military leave
• 156% state-matched retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the state
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and development based on your career aspirations
• Fun, inviting teammates
• A safe and secure environment
• A new modern building in Fallbrook with free onsite parking
• Easily accessible from I-80
• Respected as a valued team member
• Business Casual Dress Code

What This Job Offers

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