Environmental Programs Specialist I/II

City-of-Escondido; Escondido (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Escondido is hiring for Environmental Programs Specialist I/II in the Utilities Department/Environmental Programs Division. The roles supervise storm water and related environmental programs, partnering with other departments and agencies to ensure regulatory compliance.

Specialist I is entry-level with supervision and structured work, while Specialist II is journey-level with independent work and complex responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Administrative experience related to environmental science, physical science, or storm water management is desirable.
• NPDES permit compliance or other environmental programs experience is desirable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and participates in permitting, monitoring, inspection, enforcement, pollution prevention, and data management activities for storm water and related programs.
• Coordinates and participates in investigations of storm water runoff and related violations of regulations.
• Prepares outreach materials and trains City staff on storm water and environmental protection topics.
• Coordinates with City departments to improve compliance with NPDES permits and provide technical assistance to partners.
• Maintains records, writes reports, and prepares compliance documentation for regulatory agencies.
• Develops and implements policies and procedures for education, inspections, watershed activities, and water quality monitoring.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Environmental Programs Specialist I: $63,236 - $84,742 annually

Environmental Programs Specialist II: $78,973 - $105,831 annually

If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to provide top-quality municipal services in a prime North County location, consider a career with the City of Escondido. We have an opening for the position of Environmental Programs Specialist I/II in our Utilities Department/Environmental Programs Division. For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's website.

Under general supervision (Environmental Programs Specialist I) or general direction (Environmental Programs Specialist II), administers the City’s storm water program and other related environmental programs or projects through the development and facilitation of various activities with other departments, divisions, outside agencies, and the general public, as well as provides responsible and moderately complex (Environmental Programs Specialist I) or specialized and complex (Environmental Programs Specialist II) professional staff assistance to the Environmental Programs Supervisor and Utility Manager.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Environmental Programs Specialist I:

This is the entry-level class in the Environmental Programs Specialist series. Positions at this level are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to the Environmental Programs Specialist and exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern.

Environmental Programs Specialist II:

This is the full journey-level class in the Environmental Programs Specialist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Environmental Programs Specialist I level by the performance of the full range of duties assigned, working independently, applying well developed knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Work is normally reviewed only upon completion and for overall results. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the Environmental Programs Specialist II level are normally filled by advancement from the Environmental Programs Specialist I level.

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

Plans, organizes and participates in the permitting, monitoring, inspection, enforcement, pollution prevention, and data management activities of the Storm Water Program and other related environmental programs or projects as assigned in accordance with federal, state and local laws and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

Coordinates and participates in the investigation of storm water runoff, industrial related storm water quality problems, as well as complaints and violations of storm water regulations and codes.

Prepares outreach materials, conducts outreach efforts and trains City staff on storm water and environmental protection provides information to property and business owners, tenants, City employees, and the general public through individual contact in the field, over the counter, at workshops or community events, and by telephone or other appropriate means.

Coordinates with other City departments to improve levels of compliance with the NPDES permit; coordinates with and provides information and technical assistance to other departments, agencies, and organizations related to environmental programs

Prepares notices of violation and compliance schedules in cooperation with violators; prepares and maintains records of investigations and actions taken.

Coordinates and implements the City’s annual dry weather monitoring program in compliance with its NPDES Storm Water Discharge permit.

Reviews construction plans to identify storm water discharge sources and best management practices (structural and non-structural) to maximize storm water and water quality protection.

Evaluates and interprets technical reports, documents, manifests, applications and permits related to environmental regulations and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Maintains inspection files, records, and logs; writes reports and chronologies; schedules work activities and inspections independently to meet program objectives in a timely manner; maintains records and prepares reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness; maintains and updates various databases and filing and record keeping systems for assigned program; participates in researching and collecting data and information for inclusion into database and record keeping systems; conducts surveys; analyzes and interprets data collected; prepares reports and distributes requested information to appropriate parties in a timely manner including reports to regulatory agencies.

Assists in the development and implementation of policies, procedures and other program requirements for education, inspections, complaint response, watershed activities, water quality monitoring, annual report writing, inter-departmental training and coordination.

Coordinates actions and/or programs with other agencies, e.g., other cities, the county and state departments, such as coordinating regional inspections, education, or enforcement measures; represents the City at regional meetings; serves as liaison and provides support to assigned program activities with those of other City departments and staff as well as community organizations, the general public, and other groups.

Develops, writes, and maintains a variety of reports, documents, correspondence and records related to areas of assigned responsibility; prepares and writes compliance reports and associated correspondence to regulatory agencies.

Researches availability of grant monies for projects related to the department’s responsibilities, as well as writes and administers successful applications.

Provides training, direction and guidance for City staff as directed by the Environmental Programs Supervisor and Utility Environmental Programs Manager.

Provides responsible professional level staff assistance and technical and administrative support to the Environmental Programs Supervisor and Utility Environmental Programs Manager and other management staff, as well as boards and committees; researches, prepares, and presents technical, fiscal, and administrative studies, surveys, and reports.

Conducts and represents the City at various meetings and makes presentations to public interest groups, City personnel and others as directed.

Keeps current with federal, state and local regulations and their impacts on the City’s storm water and environmental quality and protection.

Provides vacation and temporary relief as needed.

Performs related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Operational characteristics, services, and activities of assigned environmental program area.
• Pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes, and regulations including those affecting NPDES permits, the Storm Water Program, and other environmental permits and programs.
• Permitting, legal, regulatory, and technical requirements of storm water quality management, including Illicit Connection and Illegal Discharge prevention and elimination, best management practices programs, and environmental monitoring and assessment.
• Modern principles and practices of chemistry, biology, microbiology, or environmental protection applicable to storm water, wastewater, hazardous materials or waste, or industrial waste.
• Laws and ordinances pertaining to storm water and environmental protection.
• Inspection, investigation or code enforcement principles and practices.
• Pollutant detection methodology related to storm water runoff or other wastes.
• Proper use of monitoring, sampling, and basic testing equipment.
• Principles and practices of record keeping and records management.
• Methods and techniques of data collection, research, and report preparation.
• Principles of supervision and training.
• Terminology used in area of assignment.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and various software packages.
• Organization and operation of municipal government.

Ability to:

• Plan, organize, direct, coordinate, administer, and evaluate assigned environmental programs or projects.
• Exercise sound judgment to determine environmental program and permit compliance with existing laws and regulations.
• Review documents and reports for completeness and accuracy.
• Perform a full range of responsible advanced professional level analytical, programmatic, and administrative duties in support of assigned programs, functions, and/or department involving the use of independent judgment and personal initiative.
• Recommend and implement goals, objectives, policies, and procedures for providing assigned program services and activities.
• Conduct accurate and thorough research and prepare clear, complete, accurate, and concise analysis, reports, and recommendations.
• Understand, interpret, and apply general and specific administrative and departmental policies and procedures as well as applicable federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
• Use computer applications to assist in performing duties, e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation applications.
• Apply procedures and techniques involved in the investigation, documentation, and enforcement of codes and regulations.
• Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals.
• Apply procedures and practices for issuing notices of violation and schedules for compliance.
• Analyze and evaluate technical and scientific data, reaching sound conclusions.
• Analyze and evaluate situations, take appropriate action and document violations being investigated.
• Respond to emergency situations involving actual or suspected illegal discharges or spills to the storm drain system or environment.
• Understand the organization and operation of the assigned department, other City departments, and outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
• Operate and use modern office equipment including a computer and various software packages.
• Work under steady pressure with frequent interruptions and a high degree of public contact by phone or in person.
• Develop and maintain effective interdepartmental coordination.
• Facilitate, develop, and work with teams and groups on various programs and projects and to create partnerships and coalitions.
• Respond tactfully, clearly, concisely, and appropriately to inquiries from the public, City staff, or other agencies on sensitive issues in area of responsibility.
• Represent the City in a professional manner when working with boards, community groups, and the general public.
• Exercise independent judgment within established policy guidelines.
• Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education/Training:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in environmental sciences, engineering, planning, public administration, or a related field.

Environmental Programs Specialist I

Experience:

Administrative experience related to environmental science, physical science, engineering, or storm water management is highly desirable.

NPDES permit compliance, or other environmental compliance programs is highly desirable.

Environmental Programs Specialist II

Experience:

Three years (full-time equivalent) of experience in environmental science, environmental planning, civil or environmental engineering, or related field. Administrative experience related to storm water management or other water quality programs, including water and wastewater; national, state, or regional resource agency permitting and compliance; land development; pollution prevention; or other environmental or natural resource management programs is highly desirable.

License or Certificate:

Possession of an appropriate, valid driver’s license.

NOTE:

For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's web site. The City of Escondido is committed to a drug and alcohol free workplace. All applicants will be subject to fingerprint investigation before a conditional offer of employment is extended. A pre-employment medical examination will be conducted following a conditional offer of employment for all positions. Safety sensitive positions will include a pre-employment drug screen. Positions subject to the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations will be subject to DOT pre-employment drug testing and random drug and alcohol testing.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Applications will be screened and the most qualified candidates will be invited to appear for testing. All positions require the ability to read, write and speak English. Types of tests may include written and/or oral examination, physical agility, practical exam or other appropriate job-related selection process. When testing is completed, candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list in the order of their test score. Selection for appointments is made from names certified on the eligibility list.

All appointments are subject to the successful completion of background investigation including LIVESCAN fingerprinting, and will be required to submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States. Qualification by a medical examination will be required at the time of appointment. After appointment, classified employees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period to be eligible for regular status. In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all new employees must produce proof of eligibility to work in the United States within the first three days of their employment. The City of Escondido participates in E-Verify.

The Loyalty Oath will be administered to all new employees on their first day of hire. New employees hired into positions that require a driver’s license must provide proof of a valid California Driver's License of the appropriate class level on their first day of employment.

Additional information regarding the essential functions and physical, environmental and communication demands of the position may be obtained from the Human Resources Department. If you require reasonable accommodation in the testing process, such as an alternate means of testing, you must contact the Human Resources Department by the final filing date to complete a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Note: Pursuant to California Civil Code section 1786.53, the City of Escondido shall provide to all job