Water Quality Specialist
About The Position
Under direct supervision, the Water Quality Specialist conducts environmental studies of designated ecological resources—including wetlands, forests, streams, soils, plants, and wildlife—to identify and evaluate potential impacts in and near Department project sites. The position monitors compliance with local, state, and federal regulations throughout all phases of Department work. The specialist conducts site investigations, collects and analyzes data, reviews plans, supports environmental permitting and coordination, and prepares project and technical documentation for compliance and project development, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. The role also supports National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit compliance, helps deliver training on stormwater regulations and best management practices, and conducts field testing and water-sample collection. Work takes place in office and field environments and involves statewide travel, including overnight travel. The position requires traversing rugged terrain. A valid driver’s license is required, and a criminal background check will be conducted.
Requirements
- Educational equivalent to a master’s degree from an accredited college or university in an environmental, biological, natural science, natural resources, or related field; or an educational equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields plus two years of experience in an environmental science-related field.
- Demonstrated proficient oral and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage diverse project assignments.
- Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret scientific data, technical procedures, and regulations.
- Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Ability to traverse rugged terrain, including steep hills, creeks and streams, swamps, brush- and timber-covered property, and fences.
- Valid driver’s license.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of CWA and/or ESA permitting and compliance.
- Working knowledge of NPDES stormwater permits and regulations under CWA Sections 401 and 402.
Responsibilities
- Conduct site investigations, collect data, and review plans to determine potential project impacts.
- Apply procedures, laws, standards, and regulations related to Clean Water Act (CWA) and/or Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) compliance.
- Coordinate with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies to obtain necessary concurrence or permits.
- Assist in collecting, analyzing, and summarizing ecological resource information to support NEPA and project development activities.
- Develop and maintain project records documenting and tracking permit and regulatory compliance.
- Prepare project documents, including constraints statements, coordination letters, and special provisions.
- Assist with project coordination meetings at Division, Department, State, and Federal levels, as applicable.
- Assist in developing environmental documents and supporting technical documentation related to the NEPA process.
- Monitor environmental compliance throughout the project and coordinate on-site monitoring as needed.
- Assist in determining compensatory mitigation for projects when applicable.
- Assist the Department with compliance with NPDES permits.
- Assist in preparing and delivering training to Department personnel on environmental stormwater regulations and best management practices.
- Conduct field testing and collect water samples for various parameters.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
