Natural Resources Specialist

The University of Texas at Arlington; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 44,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Texas at Arlington seeks a candidate to assist in evaluating and modifying public water system design standards for the Drinking Water Special Functions Section of the Water Supply Division (TCEQ). The role involves reviewing design data, preparing documentation, and supporting senior staff in a hybrid work arrangement.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and may favor candidates with experience in environmental quality management or public utilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a field such as environmental quality management, environmental science, natural resources, engineering, chemistry, public utilities, business administration, data analysis, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Assists in reviewing requests for exceptions to public water system design standards.
• Evaluates design and performance data and applies regulations with sound engineering and public health principles.
• Prepares reports and correspondence to record decisions.
• Completes or participates in special projects and technical training as assigned.
• Mentors newer staff during training as needed.
• Provides technical assistance to city/county officials, water system owners/operators, agency staff, and the public.
• Performs administrative duties and may engage in professional development.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Microsoft Teams

Word

Excel

Database entry

TCEQ databases

Regulations knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Job description

Salary

The annual salary for this position ranges from $44,000 to $48,000. The final offer will be commensurate with the candidate’s relevant experience and qualifications.

Salary

The annual salary for this position ranges from $44,000 to $48,000. The final offer will be commensurate with the candidate’s relevant experience and qualifications.

Documents Needed to Apply

Required

• Resume
• Cover letter
• References (minimum of three)

Purpose of Position

Assists with the evaluation, review, selection, adaptation, and modification of standards, techniques, procedures, and criteria for public water systems design for the Drinking Water Special Functions Section of the Water Supply Division of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Essential Functions

• Assists in the review of requests for exceptions to public water system design standards submitted by licensed professional engineers and other water supply professionals.
• Reviews and evaluates design and performance data and applies regulations in a manner consistent with sound engineering practices and public health principles.
• Prepares reports and correspondence to record decisions.
• Completes/participates in special projects and technical training as assigned by management.
• Provides assistance to senior staff as requested. May to mentor newer staff as needed throughout the training process.
• Provides general technical assistance to city and county officials, water system owners and operators, agency staff, and the general public.
• Performs administrative duties; may participates in professional development as needed
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental quality management, environmental science, natural resources, engineering, chemistry, public utilities, business administration, data analysis, or related field; and six months of work experience or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• One year experience in environmental quality management, public utilities, business administration, data analysis, or related field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Skilled in using of Microsoft Teams, Word and Excel; and PC’s.
• Solid working knowledge of database entry
• Ability to learn TCEQ databases.
• Solid working knowledge of TCEQ and Environmental Protection Agency rules, regulations and procedures related to publicly owned treatment works and pretreatment programs.
• Skill in organization; attention to details; determining proper courses of action; performing basic data entry skills; and managing time and assignments to meet deadlines.
• Ability to integrate complex concepts, procedures, and processes; communicate verbally with clients, customers, coworkers to gather information and/or explain policies and procedures; and exercise independent judgement and initiative under general supervision.
• Ability to draft routine correspondence, reports, documents, policy, procedures, case narratives, or prepare other lengthy documents
• Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Work Schedule

• Monday through Friday; 8:00am through 5:00pm
• Hybrid eligible.
• Position may be designated security-sensitive based on job duties or location.
• 10% Travel
• Based on funding availability. The position set to continue until the start of fiscal year of 08/31/2027.

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• Lifting and moving objects.

Benefits Information

Position is benefit eligible: Yes

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to our employees at the University.

https://www.uta.edu/hr/employee-benefits

PreEmployment Background Check

It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington to conduct a pre employment background check on any applicant who is under final consideration for employment with the University. This position may have access to critical infrastructure as defined by Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code. If so, to be hired for and continue to be employed in this position you must maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure as set forth in Texas Executive Order GA 48. By assuming this position, and if you have access to critical infrastructure, you authorize the University to conduct routine background checks.

University Information

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that is home to over 7 million people, one of the fastest-growing tech economies in the United States, and a wide array of arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. As a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution, UTA is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of more than 42,000 students, UTA is the second largest in the University of Texas System. As a result of its combination of rigorous academics and innovative research, UTA is designated as a Carnegie R-1 “Very High Research Activity” institution and nationally recognized for its commitment to student success and service. It ranks No. 5 in Military Times’ “Best for Vets: Colleges” and is the top university in North Texas for its graduates’ salaries (The Wall Street Journal). UTA is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and is No. 6 for undergraduate ethnic diversity in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With a global alumni network of approximately 280,000 – including leaders at many of the 24 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas – UTA contributes an estimated $29 billion annually to the Texas economy.

UTA is expanding its regional footprint by building a regional campus, called UTA West, in Parker County on the far west side of Fort Worth. It is scheduled to open in fall 2028. This initiative aligns with the university’s strategic growth and commitment to serving the broader community.

This is an exciting time to join UTA and contribute to its bold vision for the future.

EEO Statement

It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA or The University) to provide an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and/or veteran status. The University also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and gender expression. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. Constitutionally-protected expression will not be considered discrimination or harassment under this policy. It is the responsibility of all departments, employees, and students to ensure the University’s compliance with this policy.

ADA Accommodations

The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to 817-272-5554 or email [e-mail] .