Solid Waste Specialist Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Dauphin County, PA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is hiring an Environmental Trainee for a year of structured training in environmental compliance work. The position supports enforcement of environmental laws and regulation of solid, residual, hazardous, municipal, and medical waste facilities across Pennsylvania. Work includes inspecting facilities, investigating complaints, reviewing permits and operational plans, collecting environmental samples, assisting with emergency responses, and entering compliance data.

This is a full-time position with work hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch. Travel is required. After successfully completing the training period, the employee may have the opportunity to telework full-time, subject to change. Telework requires a securely configured high-speed internet connection and an approved work location within Pennsylvania. Employees unable to telework may report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. New Commonwealth employees start at an annual salary of $46,827.

Requirements

• Four years of technical experience in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or a qualifying bachelor's degree; or an equivalent combination of experience and training.
• A qualifying bachelor's degree may be in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field. Applicants within three months of graduating may be considered as having met the educational requirement.
• Possess an active motor vehicle license.
• Possess and maintain a REAL ID or passport; proof is required at the time of a conditional offer.
• Meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
• Be able to perform the essential job functions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of waste facilities to evaluate compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Investigate reports of improper waste handling and determine appropriate enforcement actions.
• Review permit applications and operational plans for compliance with environmental regulations.
• Collect environmental samples and interpret laboratory results to assess environmental conditions.
• Assist in responding to environmental emergencies involving waste releases.
• Enter inspection and compliance information into required electronic systems.

What This Job Offers

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