Environmental Specialist Sr; Data Management

Overview

This position is responsible for managing hard copy records and electronic data related to the Natural Resources Program, with a focus on spatial data associated with the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan (BCCP) and the Conservation Program. Key responsibilities include implementing established records management protocols and developing and maintaining an organized electronic file structure for spatial data used by Travis County Natural Resources staff and partner organizations for conservation planning and land management.

The role involves conducting GIS analyses as assigned and producing reports for various stakeholders, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the BCCP Coordinating Committee, Commissioners Court, the public, and other internal and external entities. The position is also responsible for updating and maintaining online GIS databases for stakeholder use, integrating property boundary and easement data into the GIS system, and preparing updates for the Travis County/BCCP website.

Additionally, the position monitors advancements in spatial technology, such as the application of artificial intelligence, and communicates relevant developments to Natural Resources staff for potential integration into field operations.

This position provides technical support to the Natural Resources Program and therefore requires a comprehensive understanding of environmental projects and program coordination. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in GIS for data analysis and mapping, including data entry, manipulation, and interpretation. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational and time management skills, as well as a strong attention to detail.

This position provides technical support to the Natural Resources Program and therefore requires a comprehensive understanding of environmental projects and program coordination, such as habitat restoration, climate resilience, ecological monitoring and assessment, prescribed fire planning, water quality protection, etc. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in GIS for data analysis and mapping, including data entry, manipulation, and interpretation.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational and time management skills, as well as a strong attention to detail.

The position is a hybrid of telework and in-person office work and may require a flexible work schedule to meet department needs.

• Develops, implements, performs duties of and/or administers a group of countywide natural resource and environmental quality programs or a single program that require a high level of technical skill, specialized knowledge, or expertise as reflected by an accredited certification or extensive experience. Includes planning, carrying out and evaluating projects and activities in support of the programs. Manages multiple projects, contracts and activities consistent with authorized scope, schedule and budget.
• Coordinates efforts with contractors, department staff, other departments and agencies, the regulated community, stakeholders and the general public. Serves as departmental liaison for the designated programs.
• Analyzes and interprets Federal, State and Local environmental regulations. Recommends, develops and implements procedures and projects consistent with environmental regulations. Makes recommendations on compliance to the department and the regulated community.
• Prepares cost estimates, plans and specifications for outside goods or services within the designated areas of program specialization. Prepares request for proposals, assists in contract negotiations with outside vendors and manages approved contracts. Develops purchase requests for supplies and services required for assigned programs and projects. Assists with development of grant proposals, applications, and contracts for services with other agencies as sources for additional funding.
• Analyzes, evaluates and presents data, maintain databases and prepares written reports. Presents findings and reports to department staff and management, other agencies, the Commissioners Court and the public.
• Conducts education and outreach to the general public by participating in information meetings, trainings, and conferences to explain issues related to the programs goals. Represents the department by working closely with groups, community members and organization representatives.
• Conducts advanced level technical inspections, analyses and or investigations.
• Specific to grants area of specialization:
  Administers preparation and submission of grant applications for new and continued funding of programs through Federal, State, Local and County sources, including maintaining grant accurate records and prepare monthly reports of progress, monitoring contractual compliance, reviews projects, coordinates efforts between funding agencies, and schedules items for…