CIER-2026-4H - Program Specialist 1 (Hourly) (Repost)

NJ Department of Environmental Protection•Trenton, NS

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the close supervision of a Program Specialist 3 or 4, or other supervisory official in a state department, institution or agency, assists in the professional, administrative and analytical work to promote the planning, operation, implementation, monitoring and/or evaluation of various programs and services administered by the Department of assignment; assists in conducting the research and field work necessary to meet the needs of the appropriate state and/or local public or private agencies; does other related work. Specific to the Position: Support the Community Collaborative Initiative (CCI) through direct community outreach, engagement, and relationship-building in designated CCI cities. Responsibilities include attending community meetings; connecting with residents, stakeholders, and partner organizations; and helping identify local needs, priorities, and opportunities for collaboration. The candidate will assist in sharing resources and information with community members, facilitating communication between partners and DEP staff, and providing follow-up on community concerns and action items. This position offers hands-on experience in stakeholder engagement, public outreach, and cross-sector collaboration while supporting meaningful partnerships that advance environmental protection and community development goals.

Requirements

Five (5) years of professional experience in planning, monitoring, coordinating, implementing, modifying and/or evaluating agency programs and services.
Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and one (1) year of the above-mentioned professional experience.
Possession of a Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a discipline appropriate for the position.
Professional experience refers to work that is analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range of basic knowledge of the profession's concepts and practices; and is performed with the authority to act and make accurate and informed decisions.
All U.S. degrees and transcripts must be from an accredited college or university. All foreign degrees and transcripts must be evaluated for accreditation by a recognized evaluation service by the closing date of this posting.
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
Selected candidates must be authorized to work in the United States per the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship, and Immigration Services regulations.
The State of New Jersey does not provide sponsorship for citizenship to the United States.

Nice To Haves

Work as part of a team, showing flexibility and compassion for diverse local and environmental needs, and contribute to a team-oriented environment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including public speaking to effectively convey information and advocate for local government needs and DEP initiatives.
Proficiency in Microsoft (MS) Office with intermediate experience using MS Access, MS Excel, and MS Word mail merge functionality.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask, ensuring all duties are performed efficiently and deadlines are met.

Responsibilities

Support the Community Collaborative Initiative (CCI) through direct community outreach, engagement, and relationship-building in designated CCI cities.
Attend community meetings.
Connect with residents, stakeholders, and partner organizations.
Help identify local needs, priorities, and opportunities for collaboration.
Assist in sharing resources and information with community members.
Facilitate communication between partners and DEP staff.
Provide follow-up on community concerns and action items.