Environmental Inspector

The purpose of this classification is to inspect and enforce compliance with the Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation (TDEC) National Pollutant Discharge Permit (NPDES) construction site stormwater runoff associated with land development activities. The position will collaborate with contractors, TDEC, and Knox County construction supervisor on enforcement of erosion and sediment control through Knox County's Enforcement Response Plan.

• Conduct field inspections to observe environmental practices and confirm compliance with applicable permits, including NPDES Construction General Permit (CGP), Aquatic Resources Alteration Permit (ARAP) Section 404/401.
• Review Developer's Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), inspection logs, and corrective action records for accuracy and completeness.
• Verify implementation of approved Comprehensive Environmental Protection Plan (CEPP), SWPPPs, and erosion/sediment control measures.
• Conduct independent compliance audits of Developer-performed environmental inspections and documentation.
• Track and document findings; issue audit reports with clear, actionable recommendations.
• Coordinate with Stormwater Manager, Construction inspectors, construction teams, and regulatory agencies as needed.
• Support environmental incident response related to land development activities and participate in lessons-learned reviews.
• Maintain organized records and assist in compliance reporting to Owner and oversight agencies. Additional Job Functions Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor's Office.
• Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours.
• Perform other duties as required.

• High School Diploma or GED required with 2 years of experience with construction, environmental compliance, or other related field required.
• Preferred Bachelor's degree in environmental science, construction, or related field.
• Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position.
• Must have a valid Tennessee driver's license and be able to pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) review.
• Ability to successfully multi-task, perform detail-oriented work, work independently, and demonstrate effective time management skills
• Detail oriented with strong written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with reviewing and understanding federal, state, or local regulations preferred.

• Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation Level 2 Certification (Certified Personnel) or ability to obtain certification
• General understanding of construction plans, specifications, and permits with emphasis on Tennessee sediment and erosion control practices
• Proficient in use of PCs, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices
• Ability to focus and demonstrate great attention to detail.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a position of moderate complexity
• Superior ability to identify and solve problems and to conduct cost-benefit analyses.
• Ability to solve basic math problems.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
• Knowledge of basic administrative and clerical systems and procedures.
• Working knowledge of basic business and management principles as applied to resource allocation, leadership technique, staff and resource coordination, strategic planning, and human resource modeling.

• This position requires the ability to engage in occasional moderate physical activity.
• Able to work independently in the field and in all types of field conditions/weather, including during rain events.

Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.