Stormwater Compliance Specialist (Natural Resource Specialist 3) - Three Openings

State of Oregon • Eugene, OR

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking three full-time Stormwater Compliance Specialists (Natural Resource Specialist 3) to join their team. These positions are crucial for protecting and improving Oregon's water quality by ensuring compliance with stormwater regulations for construction, industrial, and municipal permit holders. The role involves reviewing permit applications, conducting inspections, investigating complaints, and providing technical assistance to regulated entities. DEQ is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that values diversity, fairness, and belonging. This is an opportunity to contribute to the agency's mission of protecting and enhancing Oregon's environment for current and future generations.

Requirements

• 6 years of experience in a natural resource or environmental field.
• At least 1 year of experience at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to complete defensive driving safety class every two (2) years.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle, personal or state-owned.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated understanding of environmental justice and the historical impacts for marginalized and underrepresented communities.
• Ability to take personal responsibility for increasing knowledge of environmental justice and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work successfully with a team.
• Experience working with construction and industrial stormwater permit applications and components such as Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCPs) and Stormwater Pollution Control Plans (SWPCPs), including evaluating them and providing technical assistance.
• Experience conducting environmental regulatory inspections.
• Skills and experience maintaining a calm and professional demeanor in difficult situations and ability to de-escalate conflict.
• Experience and knowledge of Clean Water Act enforcement practices.
• Demonstrated experience building and fostering relationships with a diverse group of partners including colleagues, interested parties, communities, organizations, and businesses.
• Experience collaborating with varied and diverse groups of communities in urban and rural settings.
• Experience with initiatives involving tribal nations.
• Knowledge of laws, procedures, principles, regulations governing Federal and State water quality programs and subprograms.
• Ability to learn laws, regulations, and permit procedures applicable to the technology and industry under review.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to provide clear, concise, and compelling communication of policy and technical information tailored to the needs of diverse audiences.
• Skill in writing and presenting clear and concise reports that include qualitative and quantitative analyses, recommendations, and conclusions to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate complex stormwater permit applications, technical reports, plans, and compliance strategies.
• Determine applicability, feasibility, and regulatory compliance for industrial and construction activities.
• Assign permit coverage for industrial and construction activities to ensure regulatory standards are met and to reduce pollutant discharges.
• Conduct inspections, investigate complaints, and evaluate data and reports to determine compliance.
• Provide technical and compliance assistance to regulated entities.
• Apply progressive enforcement strategies.
• Utilize strong interpersonal skills to establish rapport with regulated entities, the public, and team members.
• Collaborate across programs, regions, and with external partners to support problem-solving, strengthen relationships, and ensure consistent implementation of stormwater program goals.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for the employee and their qualified family members.
• Paid sick leave.
• Vacation leave.
• Personal leave.
• 11 paid holidays a year.
• Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS).
• Opportunity for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
• Necessary hardware (laptop, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and cell phone) for remote work.

What This Job Offers

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