Environmental Specialist III - Augusta Anticipated

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST III - ANTICIPATED VACANCY-

Opening Date:
September 25, 2026 Closing Date:
End of the day October 16, 2026

Location:

Augusta

Position Number:

Position Type:
Full Time/Year-Round

Class Code: 9253 Grade: 23 (Professional/Technical Unit)

Salary: $25.43 - $35.68 Per Hour* *(This includes a 7.33% Salary Adjustment). This is earning potential over the course of nine steps; new hires start at step one. Annual step increases are based on performance reviews and authorization of such increases.

The position is primarily responsible for administering the Maine DEP Overboard Discharge (OBD) Compliance Inspection Program and ensuring that approximately 649 licensed OBD systems are properly installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with their licenses and applicable Department requirements throughout the State. The position works with OBD license holders, contract operators, municipal and public officials, and Department staff throughout the life cycle of each system, from licensing and renewal through operation, compliance, enforcement, and eventual removal.

• Conduct and manage the annual OBD compliance inspection program, including planning and conducting on-site and offshore inspections, investigating complaints, documenting findings, and coordinating follow-up activities.
• Direct, train, and oversee seasonal Conservation Aides responsible for supporting the OBD inspection program, including participation in their seasonal hiring, training, and assignment of field work.
• Monitor and manage OBD compliance, including review and maintenance of compliance data, Discharge Monitoring Reports, and preparation of compliance and enforcement actions.
• Provide technical assistance and regulatory guidance to OBD permit holders and contract operators regarding system operation, maintenance, permit requirements, corrective actions, and system removal.
• Maintain and administer OBD program records and systems, including inspection and compliance data in the Maine Enterprise Licensing System, and coordinate with the Licensing and Enforcement Units to support effective implementation of the OBD program.

• A six (6) year combination of education and/or experience in environmental, biological, physical science, or engineering which includes two (2) years of environmental experience.
• Qualifying education must include at least 15 credit hours of science or engineering coursework from an accredited educational institution.
• Preference will be given to candidates with the following skills or experience:
• Experience/knowledge of the design and operations of overboard discharge systems, wastewater treatment plants or traditional subsurface septic systems.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to independently manage a statewide inspection program, prioritize competing responsibilities, and meet regulatory and reporting deadlines.
• Experience conducting regulatory compliance inspections.
• Knowledge of water quality laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of water pollution issues.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions and manage multiple projects.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently in remote or challenging locations.
• Demonstrated skill identifying and resolving issues through collaboration across disciplines to support a high-functioning team.
• Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsor ships or STEM OPT extensions.

• 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage– The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($12,213.60-$14,369.04 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit – Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.
• Dental Insurance– The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($365.28 annual value).
• Retirement Plan– The State of Maine contributes 14.06% of pay to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.
• Gym Membership…