Environmental Analyst VI - Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Program

Vermont; Montpelier (VT); On-site; USD 64,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation is hiring for a full-time Environmental Analyst VI in the CAFO Program. This role involves inspecting farms, managing complaints, and coordinating with partners in the farming community, requiring strong communication skills and regulatory knowledge.

Benefits

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Retirement plans

Tuition reimbursement

Flexible spending accounts

Wellness programs

Student loan forgiveness options

Qualifications

• Regulatory experience highly preferred.
• Farming experience or familiarity working with the farming community.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively.

Responsibilities

• Inspect farms for water quality concerns.
• Respond to and investigate complaints.
• Manage enforcement actions.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong written communication

Strong verbal communication

Multitasking

Adaptability

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Bachelor's degree and three years of experience

Six years of related experience in natural resources

Tools

ArcGIS

RUSLE2

P-Index

Databases

ArcView

Job description

The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking an applicant for a full-time position in the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Program.

Responsibilities include:

1. Inspecting farms to identify water quality concerns
2. Responding to and investigating water quality complaints
3. Managing enforcement actions
4. Reviewing Nutrient Management Plans
5. Reviewing permit applications
6. Participating in program development tasks
7. Coordinating with regulatory entities, partner organizations, and the farming community
8. Performing other duties as assigned

Ideal candidates will demonstrate attention to detail, the ability to manage workloads independently, and possess strong written and verbal communication skills. Regulatory experience is highly preferred, as is farming experience or familiarity working with the farming community.

This dynamic position requires multitasking and adaptability to address time-critical incidents that may threaten environmental or public health. The role may offer telework and flexible scheduling options with supervisor approval, with a designated workstation in Montpelier and occasional in-person meetings.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications:

• Ability to review and critique nutrient management plans
• Assessing on-farm environmental concerns and regulatory violations through inspections and report reviews
• Knowledge of best management practices for agricultural waste discharges
• Understanding of animal feeding operations and land management
• Knowledge of relevant laws and ability to interpret technical requirements
• Proficiency with databases, ArcView, ArcGIS, RUSLE2, and P-Index
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences

As of July 14, 2025, the pay rate for step 1 of grade 25 will be $30.92/hour.

Who May Apply:

This position, Environmental Analyst VI - CAFO Program (Job Requisition #52894), is open to all State employees and external applicants. Multiple levels are being recruited; applicants should apply to the specific requisition for their desired level.

Levels include:

• Level V: 52893
• Level VI: 52894
• Level VII: 52751

For more information, contact [e-mail]. Resumes are not accepted via email; applications must be submitted online.

This posting may fill multiple positions at the same location.

Environmental Factors:

Work is primarily in an office setting, with some field travel involving exposure to chemicals, waste, construction sites, and rough terrain. Some work outside regular hours, including public meetings, may be necessary. Be prepared for encountering differing opinions regularly.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's degree in a relevant field and two years of experience, or Bachelor's degree and three years of experience, or six years of related experience in natural resources or a related field.

Total Compensation:

The benefits package includes health insurance, paid holidays, leave, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, wellness programs, and student loan forgiveness options. More details are available on the Benefits of State Employment webpage.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The State of Vermont values diversity and is committed to inclusive employment practices, prohibiting discrimination based on various protected characteristics. Employment decisions are merit-based, and retaliation is forbidden.