Environmental Specialist 3 Job ID 76110

Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.

The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.

Job Summary

This position is located within the Hazardous Waste Compliance and Enforcement Unit within the Air and Land Compliance/Enforcement Section at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The purpose of this position is to ensure that hazardous waste applications are submitted/processed and revenue is collected annually. The incumbent will act as the team leader for the Hazardous Waste License Team. The position also exists to act as an EPA liaison to ensure that the various Environmental Performance Partnership Agreement (EnPPA) grant program tasks are completed. The functions of this position include: evaluation for compliance with the federal and state hazardous waste laws, serve as a liaison between the MPCA and local units of government on program efforts and to promote partnerships to better implement local components of the program; and assist in education efforts like pollution prevention related to the program. The incumbent must have the ability to become knowledgeable of state and federal hazardous waste rules and programs and proficient use of the TEMPO software since it's an online program implemented system. In addition, tile position acts as a compliance and enforcement inspector in efforts related to hazardous waste management, generator reporting, fees, hazardous waste licenses and conduct hazardous waste facility inspections primarily in the Metro Region. The functions of this position include inspection and evaluation for compliance with the federal and state hazardous waste laws, regulations, rules, and permits. Documenting and communicating inspection findings as appropriate for the administration of the hazardous waste program. Understanding, explaining and negotiating compliance with applicable statutes, rules and permits. Preparing enforcement documents including letters of warning, Notices of Violation, Administrative Penalty Orders and Stipulation Agreements.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in an environmental protection or related science area and two (2) years of professional-level environmental protection experience associated with determining compliance with environmental regulations and preparing, issuing, and oversight of enforcement actions and/or experience issuing permits OR

Three years of professional-level environmental experience as described above AND Ability to manage multiple projects.

Understanding of the environmental regulatory process and state and federal rules and permits.

Understanding regulatory applicability and effectiveness related to hazardous waste.

Demonstrated strong technical writing skills.

Basic computer skills with proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and PowerPoint.

Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members.

Valid Class D Driver's License.

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

Knowledge of state and federal regulatory framework and their applicability to hazardous waste rules and environmental regulations.

Previous compliance and enforcement or related experience in a regulatory compliance position.

Understand complex industry processes and rules/regulations.

Work effectively with people representing a broad spectrum of positions in business, government, and environmental groups.

Physical Requirements

The position may be requested to conduct inspections anywhere in the state and stay overnight at times. Sometimes working out in the field in adverse weather conditions. Ability to conduct inspections that involve climbing and/or stepping over obstacles.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

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 driver's license record 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. 

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.