Environmental Specialist - Environmental Specialist 3 - Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Working Title: Environmental Specialist
Job Class: Environmental Specialist 3
Agency: Pollution Control Agency

• Job ID: 77032
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 05/28/2024
• Closing Date: 06/17/2024
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Environmental Analysis & Outcomes / Water Quality Monitoring Unit
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 50% of the time
• Salary Range: $26.64 - $39.06 / hourly; $55,624 - $81,557 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
  The work you'll do is more than just a job.
  
  At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
  
  Job Summary
  
  This position exists to provide specific technical skills as a monitoring team lead conducting ambient water quality monitoring, data analysis, reporting, and water quality condition assessments. The incumbent will work in the field and will collect ambient water quality data for lakes, rivers, and streams throughout Minnesota. The incumbent needed for this position should have good communication and public speaking skills and experience in water quality monitoring, data analysis, and reporting.
  
  Qualifications
  
  Minimum Qualifications
  
  Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Biology, Chemistry, Limnology, Hydrology, Water Resources, or related field and 2 years of professional experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.
  
  OR
  
  Master's degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Biology, Chemistry, Limnology, Hydrology, Water Resources or related field and 1 year of professional experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.
  
  OR
  
  THREE years professional-level experience conducting professional-level environmental protection or pollution control experience that includes water quality monitoring with an understanding of the principles of limnology, hydrology, water quality standards, and surface water pollutants.
  
  All candidates must have:
  
  The ability to develop and implement work plans, independently complete assignments in a timely manner, mentor and serve as a team member, and understand the economic and social impact of environmental decisions.
  
  The ability to review data for comparison of limnological concepts, models, and water quality parameters that affect recreation, biological communities, and drinking water; and comprehensive knowledge of data collection methodologies that affect analysis.
  
  Certification on trailering and watercraft operation must be obtained within one month. Ability to train entry level staff in trailering and watercraft operation.
  
  Good communication, interpersonal and collaboration skills needed.
  
  Sufficient planning/organization skills to perform senior-level professional work.
  
  Possess a valid Driver's license (see additional requirements).
  
  The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
  
  Preferred Qualifications
  
  Experience collecting water quality and ecological data, recording observations in a field setting, and conducting quality assurance of environmental data.
  
  Experience working under professional/technical contracts and/or grant agreements, including processing invoicing, payments, and budgeting in the project management context.
  
  Knowledge of water quality standards and environmental assessment.
  
  Experience with public communications efforts and public speaking related to water quality, harmful algal blooms, drinking water, or environmental projects.
  
  Ability to:
  
  Work effectively with others and coordinate with individuals involved in diverse environmental programs and research and to establish and maintain productive and open communications with business partners and other staff members.
  
  Critically review, document, and summarize information and data into comprehensive recommendations, reports, and presentations.
  
  Physical Requirements
  
  Be able to perform field work associated with monitoring projects. This includes driving a vehicle, loading/unloading vehicles and boats with field equipment, carrying equipment to sites, launching boats, or portaging canoes. Frequently may need to lift and carry approximately 50 pounds in the water or over land. Should be capable of moderate physical exertion in summer conditions.
  
  Additional Requirements
  
  A driver's license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver's License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver's license AND a satisfactory DLR check. Requires a Class D Driver's License: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds.
  
  Application Details
  
  How to Apply
  
  Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
  
  Contact
  
  If you have questions about this position, contact Donovan Baugh at donovan.baugh@state.mn.us .
  
  To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Donovan Baugh at donovan.baugh@state.mn.us .
  
  About Pollution Control Agency
  
  Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.
  
  Working together to improve the state we love.
  
  What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
  
  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth
    Benefits
    
    As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
    
    Your benefits may include:
    
    • Paid vacation and sick leave
    • 12 paid holidays each year
    • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
      • Fertility care, including IVF
      • Diabetes care
      • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
      • 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
      • Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
      • Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
      • Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
      • Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
      • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
        Support to help you reach your career goals:
        
        • Training, classes, and professional development
        • Tuition reimbursement
        • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
          Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
          
          • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
          • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
          • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
            
            Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
            
            EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
            
            Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
            
            All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
            
            APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
            
            Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.