ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I, II, & III

(Natural Resources - NPDES Program)

Pay Ranges: Environmental Specialist I $19.69 -$29.39/hr rate

Environmental Specialist II $21.28 - $31.76/hr rate

Environmental Specialist III $22.86 -$34.17/hr rate

Shift: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 hours/week)

Location: 4177 Ben Durrance Rd. Bartow, FL 33830

Health Benefits Package, Including Paid Holidays

Must have the physical, developmental and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities and duties of the job illustrated below:

MAJOR FUNCTION

Skilled and technical professional to perform technical scientific duties for various aspects of water resource management, including field, laboratory and office work related to NPDES permit and water resources.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES

Conduct field inspections of storm sewer system outfalls, maintain storm water monitoring equipment and collect samples of discharges during storm events. Inspection of industrial facilities to evaluate the potential for discharge of pollutants in storm water. Investigation of complaints on water quality and discharge of pollutants to receiving waters. Maintain a computer databases and records on inspections and investigations. Initiate enforcement of local ordinances and cooperate with federal, state and local officials in regard to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) permit program. Assist in data collection, monitoring and evaluation of environmental samples and data relative to Water Resources projects and the preparation of technical reports. Review of permit applications and development proposals regarding the impact on Polk County's water resources. Review and interpret federal, state and local regulations and provide comment on proposed legislation and ordinances related to water management. Assist in the preparation and presentation of educational information to county employees and the general public. Perform other related duties as required. Inspection of industrial facilities to evaluate the potential for discharge of pollutants in storm water. Conduct field screening of storm sewer system outfalls, maintain storm water monitoring equipment and collect samples of discharges during storm events. Investigation of complaints on water quality and discharge of pollutants to receiving waters. Maintain a computer database and records on inspections and investigations. Initiate enforcement of local ordinances and cooperate with Federal, State and Local officials in regard to the NPDES program. Assist in data collection, monitoring and evaluation of environmental samples and data relative to Water Resources projects and the preparation of technical reports. Review of permit applications and development proposals regarding the impact on Polk County's water resources. Review and interpret Federal, State and Local regulations and provide comment on proposed legislation and ordinances related to water management. Assist in the preparation and presentation of educational information to county employees and the general public. Perform other related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge in one or more of the following areas as pertains to water resource management; hydrology, geology, biology, chemistry, physics or engineering. Knowledge of the sampling equipment and techniques used in field testing for pollutants and the qualitative and quantitative analysis of water. Knowledge of laws and regulatory codes applicable to water resource management. Ability to perform field observations and research work. Ability to make advanced technical analysis of hydrologic, geologic, chemical or engineering problems. Ability to utilize technology for the analysis of complex data. Ability to use geographical information system (GIS) software. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with government officials, fellow employees and the general public. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Skills in presenting and interpreting data. Ability to see, differentiate colors, ambulate independently, swim, operate motorized vehicles including small boats, bend, stoop, sit, stand and carry field equipment up to 50 pounds (22.8 kg.) for short distances.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Environmental Specialist I Graduate of an accredited four (4) year college or university with major course work in physical or natural science. Must have valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license at the time of employment within this classification. Must have a minimum of two (2) years experience in natural areas management, water resources management or related field or a Master’s Degree in physical or natural science may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. A comparable amount of training and related experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Environmental Specialist II Graduate of an accredited four (4) year college or university with major course work in physical or natural science. Must have valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license at the time of employment within this classification. Must have a minimum of four (4) years’ experience in natural areas management, water resources management or related field or a Master’s Degree in physical or natural science may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. A comparable amount of training and related experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Environmental Specialist III Graduate of an accredited four (4) year college or university with major course work in physical or natural science. Must have valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license at the time of employment within this classification. Must have a minimum of six (6) years experience in natural areas management, water resources management or related field or a Master’s Degree in physical or natural science may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. A comparable amount of training and related experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

SPECIAL PREFERENCES Environmental Specialist I, II & III

Preference will be given to individuals with the following: • Experience with surveying and identification of Central Florida flora and fauna. • Experience in conducting inspections and working under NPDES permit program. • Experience in water quality sampling and using automatic water samplers. • Experience in public speaking and environmental education. • Experience with ArcGIS and mapping applications on computer tablets. • Public Applicator License in Aquatic Pest Control and/or Natural Areas Weed Management

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT Environmental Specialist I, II & III This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.