Environmental Specialist (209814)

Job Description:

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has an Environmental Specialist opening in Topeka. This position serves as KDHE project manager for relatively complex projects at Federal Facilities and Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS), where ongoing investigations and remediation are occurring.  Coordinates and performs elements of the investigative, monitoring, and remedial processes under the direction and supervision of the Unit Manager to ensure projects are completed within a time frame deemed adequate.  Interacts with consultants and the public to review, present and negotiate all aspects of project management.  The employee may be temporarily assigned to assist other programs or projects in completing other duties.

Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

Reviews, and/or evaluate technical work plans, proposals, and reports, associated with characterization and/or remedial actions at federal facilities or FUDS sites throughout Kansas for completeness, accuracy, and technical adequacy.  Includes analysis and interpretation of technical data to formulate solutions to project-specific environmental problems in the state and to identify data gaps that would preclude forward progress at the sites and, ultimately, regulatory approval.  Reviews soil, sediment, surface water, and groundwater quality sampling programs to ensure that all work is performed in accordance with approved work plans, field sampling plans, quality assurance project plans, quality management plans, and applicable state and federal guidance and policies.  Perform these activities under the direction of the Unit Manager, within program guidelines and timeframes, and documents them through written correspondence with parties conducting such technical investigations and remediation.

Update project-specific fact sheets and the KDHE databases on a quarterly basis (minimum) to document progress on each site.  Communicates and provides briefings to the Unit Manager, Section Chief, Bureau Director, and other levels of management as requested.

Performs site visits for the purpose of oversight of inspections, field investigations and remediation.  Periodically collects split samples for verification of cleanup standards and/or provides oversight of field investigative activities (drilling, sampling, trenching, building demolition, etc.).

Qualifications: 

Education:

The minimum level of education and experience required to perform the job.

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science with an emphasis on geology, chemistry, biology, or a related natural science

Licensing & Certification: 

• Valid Driver’s License – Incumbent is required to have and maintain a valid driver’s license when operating a state vehicle, a private vehicle, or a rental vehicle for the benefit of the State

Preferred Qualifications: 

Any additional skills, experiences, or qualifications that would be beneficial, but aren’t strictly necessary.

• Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access
• Proofreading, editing, attention to detail
• ArcGIS
• Experience preparing and/or reviewing remediation reports
• Experience with Superfund (CERCLA) and/or RCRA Programs
• Experience in preparing and/or reviewing soil and groundwater assessment

Post-Offer, Pre-employment Requirements:

• Within six months of hire, incumbent must pass a physical which certifies the individual can work in the necessary protective gear

About the Position: 

• Who can apply: Anyone (External)
• Classified/Unclassified Service: Unclassified
• Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm (Flexible schedules available)
• Eligible to Receive Benefits: Yes
• Veterans’ Preference Eligible: Yes

Employment Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage
• Sick & Vacation leave
• Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)
• Fitness Centers in select locations
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs

How to Apply:

Specific instructions for applying, which might include submitting a resume, cover letter, list of references, or completing an online application.

• Please include the Job ID number (209814) when emailing.

Job Application Process:  Only applications submitted within our State of Kansas Careers Portal will be considered.

• First Sign in or register as a New User at https://admin.ks.gov/offices/personnel-services/jobs
• Complete or update your contact information on the State of Kansas Careers Portal > My Contact Information page. *This information is included on all your job applications.
• Upload required documents listed for each specific job posting.
• Start your draft job application, upload other required documents, and Submit when it is complete.
  • Manage your draft and submitted applications on the Careers> My Job Applications page.
• Check your email and My Job Notifications for written communications from the Recruiter.
  • Email – sent to the Preferred email on the My Contact Information page
  • Notifications – view the Careers> My Job Notifications page

Contact Information:

[email protected]

Salary Range

$ $25.05 to $26.31