Natural Resources Program Principal 2026-01486

State of Wyoming•Cheyenne, WY

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Natural Resources Program Principal provides technical analysis and may serve as a program lead for special projects as directed by the Groundwater Section Manager. General duties include review of operating permit applications for purposes of initial permit development, modification, or renewal; review documents for details, accuracy, and completeness; and coordinate with other Section staff with fulfilling permitting compliance monitoring, inspection and enforcement responsibilities related to the Underground Injection Control Program and Groundwater Pollution Control Program. This position does not supervise any subordinate positions.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (typically in The Sciences)
1-2 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Analyst OR 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Analyst
Proven ability to research, interpret, and apply complex Federal, State, and Local environmental laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Deep understanding of environmental theories, principles, and practical applications, particularly concerning groundwater and regulatory compliance.
Detail-oriented with a strong ability to discern, track, organize, and research public records and complex technical data.
Proficient in environmental technical and regulatory writing, with the ability to compose, review, and edit highly detailed technical documents for accuracy and completeness.
Skilled in public speaking, with the ability to present complex technical data clearly to colleagues, the public, and diverse stakeholder groups.
Excellent written, oral, and electronic communication skills, emphasizing precision and attention to detail
Proven ability to multi-task, set priorities, and manage multiple assignments under pressure to deliver high-quality work on time.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively within multi-disciplinary teams, take direction, and interact professionally with colleagues, the public, and the regulated community.
Proficiency in standard office software and computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software (e.g., MS Office Suite).

Nice To Haves

Ability to travel and conduct field investigations and inspections, which may require prolonged standing, walking on uneven terrain, and lifting equipment up to 25 pounds.

Responsibilities

Evaluate complex permit applications, feasibility studies, and engineering designs for Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class I (hazardous and non-hazardous industrial/municipal waste disposal) and Class V (shallow non-hazardous injection) wells.
Analyze complex, multi-disciplinary environmental data (biological, chemical, geological, and hydrogeological) to draw definitive conclusions and formulate formal recommendations.
Verify the accuracy, validity, and computational integrity of data collection methods, mechanical integrity testing (MIT), and injection well monitoring reports.
Apply and interpret complex rules, regulations, guidelines, and standards, with a specific focus on groundwater quality protection, Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) standards, and UIC regulations.
Oversee the full regulatory lifecycle of Class I and Class V wells, including permitting, inspections, review of compliance reports, field evaluations of required well testing and proper plugging and abandonment (P&A) procedures.
Maintain organized, auditable digital and physical project and compliance files.
Plan and execute environmental compliance audits, field investigations, and on-site inspections of facilities, structures, and UIC well sites to resolve groundwater violations and complaints.
Work with the Geology Supervisor – Inspection and Compliance to determine compliance status based on field observations, data analysis, and regulatory interpretations.
Recommend appropriate levels of enforcement responses of non-compliance or unauthorized injection activity.
Serve as the primary author for all specialized environmental technical writing, delivering timely formal recommendations and UIC permit drafts.
Formulate comprehensive, evidence-based technical reports resulting from audits, well-logging reviews, and environmental investigations.