RRC - Natural Resources Specialist - II

Job Description

The Railroad Commission of Texas is a state agency responsible for regulating the oil and natural gas industry, pipeline transport and safety, natural gas utilities, LP‑gas industry, and surface mining operations. The Natural Resources Specialist supports the Applications and Permits Section of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division by implementing the Texas Coal Mining Regulations for Texas mines.

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and at least 12 paid holidays per year
• Telework options for eligible positions
• Retirement pension with a 150% agency match
• 401(k), 457(b) and Roth plans
• Health premiums 100% paid for full‑time employees
• Tuition reimbursement
• Wellness and exercise leave

• Review permit application sections (new, renewal, revision, transfer) related to post‑mine land use, geology, soil baseline, post‑mine soil reconstruction, monitoring, and revegetation plans.
• Evaluate monitoring reports (soil and revegetation) to confirm they meet regulatory requirements.
• Review bond release applications.
• Prepare detailed technical reports providing professional opinions on the adequacy of applications or monitoring reports, addressing baseline, operations‑plan, and reclamation‑plan requirements.
• Conduct technical evaluations of submissions in areas such as soil and overburden data, agronomic plans, and surface‑water quality and quantity.
• Maintain working knowledge of environmental protection practices, revegetation procedures, analytical data quality control, and statistical methods for natural resources data assessment.
• Act as project coordinator to facilitate multidisciplinary application processing.
• Provide expert oral testimony in administrative hearings when required.
• Assist field personnel with field evaluations and support research and tasks related to permitting and monitoring of surface mining and reclamation operations.
• Respond to inquiries from regulated industry and the public regarding surface coal mining, reclamation, exploration permits, surface uranium mining, and related processes.
• Identify program changes or special projects that improve program effectiveness and assist with implementation following formal procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the manager or Assistant Director.

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in soil science, environmental science, natural resources, biology, ecology, or a closely related field.
• Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills.
• Valid Texas driver’s license and a good driving record.
• For Natural Resources Specialist II: one or more years of relevant work experience.

• Experience in soil science, agronomy, forestry, or mining.
• Experience dealing with consultants and regulatory agencies.
• Experience with environmental regulations.
• Experience with CAD or GIS software for assessment and map production.
• Experience in the collection and assessment of soil, vegetation, and water samples and laboratory analyses.

• Major coursework in soil science, agronomy, or forestry with related experience.
• Ability to use and maintain all state‑owned property and equipment for safe operation, including vehicle maintenance.
• Clear and concise communication, both oral and written.
• Professional approach to addressing issues and concerns.
• Ability to work under high‑pressure situations and meet changing demands and timelines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and database systems.

• Work outside regular Monday‑Friday 8 AM–5 PM hours, with occasional flexible hours, overtime, and weekends.
• Position requires approximately 10 % overnight travel.
• Willingness to work in all weather conditions when out in the field.
• Ability to walk several miles on uneven terrain in inclement weather.
• Potential exposure to wildlife and poisonous plants during field inspections.

• Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Operate state‑owned vehicles, off‑road utility vehicles, and small trailers in inclement weather and varying driving conditions.

Standard office hours are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The agency offers alternative schedules and telework options in accordance with approved plans. Alternate work schedules may be discussed during the interview process.

The Railroad Commission of Texas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services. The Railroad Commission of Texas is a tobacco‑free workplace.