ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST III - 37021139

State of Florida • Ocala, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Specialist III 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.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical or natural sciences.
• Knowledge of field sampling techniques for soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediment.
• Skills in identifying Florida soils and wet season ground water table determinations using the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Soils methodologies.
• Skills in understanding and applying applicable State and Federal statutes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to environmental programs.
• 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 six years of verifiable related experience in the areas environmental health, environmental science, or a physical or biological science or post-secondary education may be used as an alternative for 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.

Nice To Haves

• Environmental Health Professional Certification in Onsite Sewage Systems, or be a Registered Sanitarian, or the equivalent under s.381.0101, Florida Statutes, within 6 months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Performing 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.) and other applicable Florida Statutes and rules.
• Making preliminary site visit to evaluate the property/site for an on-site sewage system installation, which includes determining soil suitability/classification, lot size, water table, percolation rate, drainage, and compliance with other criteria pursuant to Chapter 62-6, 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.
• Inspecting and evaluating new on-site sewage disposal system installations to ensure adequate tank and drain field capacity, proper elevation, drain field cover, distances from wells, setbacks, and compliance with other criteria pursuant to Chapter 62-6, F.A.C.
• Issuing permits for the construction, repair, and operation of OSTDS, consistent with the requirements of Chapter 62-6, F.A.C., and other applicable Florida Statutes and rules.
• Inspecting individual sewage disposal system installations at commercial establishments and residences where prior site evaluation revealed limitations to the development of property and thus require a highly specialized installation knowledge of procedures to provide satisfactory service.
• 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.
• Responding to, investigating, and taking steps to resolve complaints.
• When necessary, recommending enforcement action for violations of applicable Florida Statutes and rules.
• Participating in the drafting of enforcement documents and in enforcement meetings.
• Providing technical assistance in consultation with applicants, contractors, engineers, and other governmental agencies regarding Department rules, guidelines, and policies pertaining to OSTDS.
• Preparing files for court proceedings.
• Entering documentation and data into designated databases.
• Contributing to the development and maintenance of informational resources and data sets pertaining to OSTDS permit applications, compliance assistance activities, enforcement activities, and regulatory guidance and interpretation.
• 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 limited direct supervision.
• Performs other duties as needed.

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: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree