Stormwater Specialist

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

4d•$33 - $49

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is seeking a Stormwater Specialist (Hwy Environmental Biologist II) to join the Project Development team. As a Stormwater Specialist, you will play a vital role in the responsibilities of the Environmental Section at NDOT. In this position, you will participate in all aspects of NDOT's Roadside Development and Stormwater Management Programs. This can entail the inspection of highway construction projects and maintenance facilities for environmental considerations, review of highway construction plans for erosion and sediment control, and participating in water quality initiatives related to NDOT's MS4 program, among other responsibilities. In this position, you will coordinate with environmental resource agencies, as well as NDOT staff, on initiatives related to water quality, vegetation, and environmental compliance. We reward our employees’ hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes: • State-matched retirement contribution of 156% • 13 paid holidays • Generous leave accruals that begin immediately • Military leave • Tuition reimbursement program • Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government • 79% employer-paid health insurance plans • Dental and vision insurance plans • Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy • Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State • Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service • Training and Development based on your career aspirations • Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship • Employee Assistance Program • Fun, inviting teammates • Free parking If unable to fill at the Hwy Environmental Biologist II level, NDOT will consider applicants at the Hwy Environmental Biologist I level. Hwy Environmental Biologist I Pay range is $28.893 - $42.592 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved. Hwy Environmental Biologist II Pay range is $33.226 - $48.979 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.

Requirements

Highway Environmental Biologist I - Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or technical discipline related to environmental assessment or compliance review principles and practices, including but not limited to biological sciences, agricultural/soil sciences, geography, landscape architecture, ecology/environmental studies, or related engineering disciplines. Additional years of experience in the above work areas may substitute for the bachelor’s degree requirement on a year-for-year basis.
Highway Environmental Biologist II - Bachelor's degree in a scientific or technical discipline related to environmental assessment or compliance review principles and practices including but not limited to biological sciences, agriculture/soil sciences, geography, ecological/environmental studies, Historic Properties, landscape architecture, or related engineering disciplines, AND two (2) years' experience performing research, investigative, or compliance work related to environmental or other technical assessments of the impact of construction, engineering, or similar projects. Additional years of experience in the above work areas may substitute for the bachelor's degree requirement on a year-for-year basis. An advanced degree may substitute for one of the two years of required experience.
A valid driver's license or the ability to provide independent authorized transportation is required.
Occasional travel throughout Nebraska is necessary.
Regular and reliable attendance is required.
Knowledge of the principles of environmental, ecological, biological, or physical sciences pertinent to the transportation environment. In particular, knowledge of Federal and State laws and regulations related to roadside vegetation establishment, NPDES and MS4 programs, water quality, and pollution prevention programs that pertain to transportation programs is necessary.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Education and 2-3 years of experience working with water quality initiatives or pollution prevention programs, along with knowledge of vegetation native to Nebraska.
Experience interpreting environmental regulations and providing guidance to ensure compliance for an organization subject to stormwater, wastewater, and hazardous waste rules, as well as providing training in any of these areas.
Experience with preparing or inspecting for Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans, along with an understanding of the relationship with erosion and sediment control measures and how they relate to the roadside environment.
The ability to read and interpret highway construction plans is important to the position.
Knowledge/experience of computer applications, such as Microsoft Office, computer-aided design, GIS software, and GPS systems, is preferred.
Knowledge/experience with public speaking and providing training in areas related to environmental programs is vital.

Responsibilities

Participate in the implementation of NDOT's MS4 Permit, including the management of programmatic documents, providing information for annual reporting requirements, and participating in activities as outlined in the current NDOT Stormwater Management Plan.
Inspect and evaluate NDOT construction projects and maintenance facilities for compliance with environmental regulations, including but not limited toNPDES and SPCC programs, hazardous waste requirements, and other related environmental programs.
Provide guidance and support to NDOT District staff related to best management practices, spill cleanup, and necessary documentation.
Review roadway and maintenance projects for landscape planning requirements, including vegetation selection and erosion and sediment control design requirements.
Prepare specifications related to vegetation requirements and erosion and sediment control practices.
Assist with environmental training for NDOT employees, consultants, and contractors. This includes the development and delivery of training materials and guidance documents.
Respond to requests for information from regulatory environmental agencies and complete required documents.
Maintain excellent communications with Department personnel, consultants, and other government agencies.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
13 paid holidays
Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
Military leave
Tuition reimbursement program
Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
79% employer-paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
Employee Assistance Program
Fun, inviting teammates
Free parking