Environmental Specialist II

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

13d•$26•Onsite

About The Position

You will be doing work knowing you are making a difference for current and future generations. The agency is seeking a detail-oriented team player to help protect, preserve, and enhance resources in Nebraska. The successful candidate will be based out of Lincoln, Nebraska and conduct inspections of animal feeding operations to evaluate compliance with state and federal regulations and permit conditions. The candidate will be working with livestock producers to ensure they meet current regulatory requirements for the proper control and land application of livestock waste. This will be done through inspections, on-site compliance visits, public outreach, and permitting of livestock waste control facilities. Other primary duties include preparing reports and documenting inspection observations including potential violations. Responding to complaints related to animal feeding operations, conducting extensive file reviews and supporting the department’s filing process and facility databases. At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in animal science, livestock production, feedlot management, agronomy or other agriculture/livestock area, physical sciences, natural sciences, environmental science, geology, biology, agronomy, animal science, livestock production, civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or a related field. Experience may substitute for education or a year-for-year basis.
Valid driver's license or ability to provide independent transportation
Approximately 25% overnight travel
Selected candidate is subject to a physical exam and screening along with participation in the agency's medical monitoring program
Ability to lift 35 pounds
Ability to climb 10 ft ladder
Ability to climb, bend, stoop
Ability to work in outdoor temperature extremes
Ability to walk on muddy, icy, uneven terrains and steep slopes to accomplish tasks
Ability to sit for long periods of time
Ability to work in and around a livestock production setting
Regular and reliable attendance required.
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: Livestock production, feedlot management, basic farming practices, agronomy, animal husbandry.
Skill in: Communicating with individuals and groups with varying technical backgrounds to collect and relay information; listening to and understanding others; prioritizing workloads; using analytical judgment to make decisions; public speaking and providing presentations, technical writing skills, word processing, data organization, spread sheets, email.
Ability to: Learn and apply local, State and Federal environmental laws, regulations and standards; learn, apply and uphold agency policies and procedures; establish and maintain effective working relationships with public and private officials and with the general public; read and interpret topographic and geologic maps; organize, analyze and interpret data to draw conclusions and prepare reports and technical papers; use computers and other tools for data storage and analysis.

Nice To Haves

Preference given to applicants that have a Bachelor’s degree in animal science, livestock production, feedlot management, agronomy or other agriculture/livestock area.
Experience working in the livestock industry.

Responsibilities

Provide technical assistance and information to the public on the Nebraska Environmental Protection Act, Livestock Waste Management Act, Title 130 – Livestock Waste Control Regulations, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, and other applicable rules and regulations.
Conduct on-site compliance evaluations of animal feeding operations in Nebraska.
Respond to inquiries and complaints by federal, State and local agencies, the professional community and/or the general public.
Write, edit and review reports and correspondence to/with animal feeding operations, consultants, and the public.
Review files, permit applications and annual reports for animal feeding operations.
Review EPA guidance documents, memorandum, Federal Register notices, Federal and State regulations, professional journals and trade magazines to stay informed about emerging issues.
Attend recommended regulatory, management and other professional development training courses.
Prepare and present seminars, workshops and public information sessions that aid in the education of the public regarding environmental regulations and policies that affect livestock producers.
Help plan and implement training and certification programs in collaboration with the University of Nebraska and various federal and State agencies.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave equating to 24 days your first year, accruing immediately
Military leave
156% (that's not a typo!) 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
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday – After a 6-month Original Probation Period - Flexible schedules and 10-hour workdays may be allowed with management approval