Environmental Health & Safety Specialist - Scientist (Water Ecology) III

City of New York; Indiana (PA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Scientist (Water Ecology) III to enhance environmental health and safety initiatives. This role involves conducting inspections, managing environmental data, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in environmental sciences, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work both in the office and in the field. Join a team committed to safeguarding public health and the environment while making a significant impact across various NYC locations. If you are passionate about environmental protection and eager to contribute to community well-being, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or relevant experience in environmental sciences required.
• Strong analytical and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and assessments to identify environmental risks.
• Develop and deliver training programs on EHS initiatives.
• Maintain environmental health and safety records.

Skills

Environmental Assessments

Risk Assessment

EHS Training Development

Regulatory Research

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences

Baccalaureate degree with relevant credits

Associate degree with relevant credits

Tools

MS Office (Excel, Access)

Job description

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is dedicated to enriching the environment and safeguarding public health for all New Yorkers by providing 1.1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water, managing wastewater and stormwater, and reducing pollution. DEP is the largest combined municipal water and wastewater utility in the country, employing nearly 6,000 staff members. Its water supply system includes 19 reservoirs and 3 controlled lakes across a 2,000 square mile watershed extending 125 miles north and west of New York City.

NYC's infrastructure encompasses approximately 140,000 catch basins, 114,000 hydrants, 90,000 valves, 14 gatehouses, 3 reservoirs, 68 groundwater wells, a 100 million-gallon underground storage tank, and 7,000 miles of sanitary sewers and water mains. The Department's Bureau of Water and Sewer Operations (BWSO) maintains these extensive networks.

The primary responsibilities of BWSO include operating, maintaining, and protecting the City’s water and sewer systems; safeguarding waterways; and overseeing the development and protection of the Capital Water and Sewer Design Program. The Bureau also inspects water and sewer connections by licensed plumbers or authorized contractors and supervises all public and private construction projects affecting water or sewer systems.

The Bureau manages the Staten Island Bluebelt, a natural stormwater conveyance system covering approximately 15 square miles, which preserves streams, ponds, wetlands, and provides community open spaces and wildlife habitats.

Environmental Health & Safety Division - Scientist (Water Ecology) III

The division seeks to hire a Scientist (Water Ecology) III responsible for developing and enhancing environmental, health, and safety initiatives. The role involves conducting inspections, assessments, and audits to identify risks, researching regulations, developing training programs, managing environmental data, and supporting compliance efforts. The position involves both office-based and fieldwork across various NYC locations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Identify hazards and assess risks to workers and the environment.
2. Perform EHS assessments and inspections at facilities and field sites.
3. Implement corrective actions for safety and environmental issues.
4. Conduct field work across NYC, interacting with personnel and agencies.
5. Research and interpret OSHA, PESH, DEC, and other regulations.
6. Develop and deliver EHS training programs.
7. Update systems supporting research, data analysis, and compliance.
8. Assist with waste management and emergency environmental responses.
9. Participate in special projects and prepare reports.
10. Maintain environmental, health, and safety records.

Note: To qualify for an interview, candidates must be permanent in the Scientist (Water Ecology) title or have filed for the latest civil service exam.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Master’s degree in environmental or related sciences, or
2. Baccalaureate degree with 24 credits in relevant fields plus one year of related experience, or
3. Associate degree with 24 credits plus three years of related experience.

Additional Requirements:

For higher assignment levels, additional experience or education may be required. A master’s degree can substitute for up to two years of experience.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Access)
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, RCRA, CERCLA/SARA, PESH, DEC regulations
• Strong communication, organizational, interpersonal, and analytical skills

Residency Requirement:

NYC residency is required within 90 days of employment if residing outside NYC at start.

Additional Information:

The City promotes diversity and equal opportunity, fostering a work environment free from discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics.