Ops Environmental Specialist Ii

OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II –

Requisition No: 870443

Working Title:

OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II –

The OPS Environmental Specialist II, , works in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Water Quality Monitoring Program, central Regional Operation Center, located in Orlando. Responsibilities include water quality sampling in freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems, groundwater wells, and biological assessments of streams and lakes. Duties also cover records management, calibration of field meters, maintenance of field equipment, and support for the Strategic Monitoring Plan, Status and Trend Monitoring Networks.

This intermediate environmental position performs biological assessment and water quality sampling in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems, using GIS, mapping programs and databases for planning field sampling events. It conducts data accuracy reviews on all collected data following QA/QC protocols, enters and/or uploads biological, physical, and chemical data into various data storage and retrieval systems, and assists with reporting of data for surface water environments.

It provides technical assistance to the local DEP District with sampling and monitoring needs, conducts complaint investigations regarding water pollution violations, and responds to inquiries from the public, media, and elected officials in a timely manner.

The position organizes and maintains sampling gear, manages inventory of coolers, kits and supplies, cleans laboratory space, vehicles, and equipment, and performs maintenance on sampling equipment. Snorkeling may be required. Participation in Boater safety training is required.

• Ability to collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific or technical data.
• Ability to understand and interpret applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Skill in operating and trailering small powerboats.
• Skill with the use of personal computers.
• Ability to prepare technical reports.
• Ability to determine work priorities and ensure proper completion of work assignments.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deal with the public in a courteous and respectful manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to work independently with general supervision and as part of a team.
• Ability to be adaptable, flexible, resourceful and maintain a positive outlook.
• Knowledge of terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical and natural sciences.
• Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and sampling techniques for measuring surface and ground water quality.
• Skilled in water sample collection techniques that include wading, snorkeling, and traversing difficult terrain.
• Knowledge of water quality field instruments.
• Ability to maintain a valid Class E Florida driver’s license and travel or drive long distances.
• Ability to maintain or complete training on functional use of ESRI GIS software, MS Office software, Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and various data storage and retrieval systems.
• Ability to complete complicated or repetitive tasks accurately and efficiently as well as carry 40‑pounds while walking ten minutes (100 yards) over uneven terrain.
• Skill in floral and/or faunal biological assessments.

• At least five years of verifiable related experience in engineering, engineering sciences, chemistry, environmental science, natural sciences, biological sciences, physical sciences, environmental policy, or public health. Post‑secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the listed fields may be used as an alternative for the required five years of experience on a year‑for‑year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Frequent day and occasional overnight travel.
• This is a medically monitored position.
• Completion of the boater safety training is required within 9 months of hire; additional time needed for completion will be at the discretion of the supervisor.

$25.42 hourly