Natural Resources Program Principal

Position: Natural Resources Program Principal 2026-01630
Description and Functions

Open Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This position provides the frontline presence of state mining regulation with the regulated mining community of SE Wyoming. The position will work under the direction of the Land Quality Division, District 1 Supervisor, and will coordinate and conduct the mining regulatory activities associated with enforcement of Land Quality Division rules and regulations.

Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:

* Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

* Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays

* Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future

* Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities

* and MUCH MORE! for detailed information, oryou can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!

Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary? Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

Human Resource Contact: deq.hr

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed in the job level.

* This position will manage the administrative and enforcement duties associated with the regulation of a diverse set of mining projects that are various sizes and have varied operation tempos.

* Duties include annual review of mining operations and exploration activities throughout D1 (southeast Wyoming).

* Conduct the review and analysis of a variety of mining notifications, authorizations, and permits required by the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act.

* Evaluate mine operation compliance with Wyoming mining rules and regulations; analyze impacts of proposed activities on public health, safety and the environment; document findings with detailed, well written reports; provide program information and interpretation to the public, regulated community, and other government agencies.

* Conduct inspections of administered operations to determine compliance with mining regulations; write detailed inspection reports, notices of violation, and settlement agreements; respond to public complaints; participate in development of guidance documents and regulations focusing on a variety of topics.

* Serve as an expert witness in administrative and judicial proceedings.

* Possess considerable initiative and independent analytical and evaluative judgment; travel and field work; accountable for the completion of projects within defined time constraints.

* Determines accuracy of data collection and computation methods.

* Provide record research support.

* Participate in compliance reviews.

* Applies and interprets complex rules, regulations, guidelines or standards.

* Has ongoing interface with the regulated community.

* May monitor or organize contracted work on various projects.

Qualifications

PREFERENCES:

Preference will be given to candidates familiar with the extraction of solid minerals from the earth.

Preference will be given to candidates familiar with the statutory authority and regulations associated with this extraction.

KNOWLEDGE:

* Knowledge of environmental issues and the ability to analyze mining proposals sufficiently enough to make an informed and balanced recommendation on such proposals.

* Knowledge of and ability to read, research, interpret and apply relevant environmental laws and regulations.

* Knowledge of science disciplines relevant to mining operations.

* Knowledge of and ability to learn to use field capable tablets, reporting applications and GIS software.

* Skill with interpersonal relations, communication, effective writing, decision making, problem solving, and negotiation.

* Ability to be resourceful, work cooperatively, prioritize workload, resolve conflicts and travel to do field work

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Bachelor's Degree (typically in The Sciences)

Experience:

1-2 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Analyst

OR

Education & Experience Substitution:

4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in The Sciences) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Natural Resources Analyst

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

None

Necessary

Special Requirements

PHYSICAL

WORKING CONDITIONS:

* Inspection of mineral exploration activity and surface mining sites involves over the road travel requiring the ability to drive a motor vehicle over paved highways and improved gravel roads. Also, the ability to negotiate uneven terrain on foot to traverse mine and exploration sites safely is essential.

* Most inspections are conducted during the growing season (April through July) however, some may need to be conducted during shoulder seasons when inclement conditions may be encountered.

* Participation in the various groups as Wyoming's representative may require additional travel at times.

NOTES:

* FLSA:
Exempt

* The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality may…