Stormwater Permitting Engineering Associate I

State of South Carolina • Richland County, SC

8h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Stormwater Permitting Engineering Associate I serves as a staff engineering associate for plan review for the Stormwater Permitting Section of SCDES' Bureau of Water. Under direct supervision, you will support the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater program, the state stormwater management program, and the sediment reduction program. In this role, you will help protect water quality, reduce flooding risks, and support environmental health by reviewing engineering plans and issuing stormwater permits. This position conducts the drafting of South Carolina’s NPDES General Permits for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities (SCR100000) and the NPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities (SCR000000), and reviews applications for coverage under these permits. You will work closely with senior program staff on daily tasks and develop expertise in stormwater permitting and compliance.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering.
• The education must qualify the applicant to become registered as a Level A Professional Engineer in South Carolina and must meet one of the education requirements outlined on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations website.
• Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
• Must possess basic knowledge of hydrology, hydraulics, and sedimentology.
• Must have experience evaluating and reviewing engineering site reports, specifications, and drawings.
• Must be able to work effectively with local government agencies, professional engineering consultants, owners, agents, the general public, and other internal and external customers.
• Must be a certified construction site inspector and certified plan reviewer or be able to obtain both certifications within one (1) year of employment.
• Must have a valid drivers' license.
• Must be proficient with personal computers, particularly word-processing software.
• Must be able to climb steep slopes, traverse uneven terrain, and participate in site visits in both fair and inclement weather.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting.
• CEPSI Certification through Clemson University.
• CSPR Certification through Clemson University.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings, calculations, and engineering reports for projects submitted for permitting under the NPDES Stormwater Program Construction Activities (SCR100000) and the NPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities (SCR000000).
• Evaluate projects for compliance with applicable regulations and prepare approvals for regulated activities.
• Collaborate with consulting engineers to resolve plan deficiencies and provide technical assistance for proposed and ongoing projects.
• Issue coverage under the NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit to applicable municipalities.
• Issue coverage under the NPDES Construction General Permit to sites located within MS4 areas.
• Assist Bureau of Water Compliance staff during MS4 Audits
• Provide stormwater-related technical assistance to regional Environmental Affairs staff and Bureau of Water Compliance and Enforcement teams.
• Provide information to the public and regulated community as requested.
• Support other Agency permit programs as needed, including periodic review of permit applications outside of your assigned section.
• Assist with the Bureau of Water’s response to environmental emergencies such as hurricanes, floods, and dam failures as coordinated by your supervisor.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available
• Retirement benefit choices
• State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
• State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

What This Job Offers

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