Environmental Specialist Ii

The Environmental Specialist II are in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Water Quality Monitoring Program, Northwest Regional Operation Center (ROC) in Pensacola and will be responsible for water quality sampling in freshwater and estuarine ecosystems, and preforming biological assessments of streams and lakes. Duties for these positions include record management, calibration of field meters and maintenance of field equipment.

These positions enable DEAR/Northwest ROC the capability to accomplish monitoring goals of Strategic Monitoring Plan, Status and Trend Monitoring Networks, as well as respond to public concerns related to water quality of surface waters.

These intermediate environmental positions perform biological assessment and water quality sampling in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems for the Water Quality Monitoring Program. Biological assessments may include taxonomic analysis of freshwater, estuarine and marine flora, and fauna. Completion of DEP training and pass status of audits are required to conduct water quality data collection and specialized floral and faunal biological assessments.

Performs logistical planning in coordination with other personnel for field sampling events using GIS, internet, mapping programs, databases, and other available sources. Performs office and field reconnaissance as needed prior to sampling events.

Major duty responsibilities will include managing data for the Northwest Regional Operations Center (ROC), including timely and accurate data entry into Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) databases, such as WIN, DMT, and SBIO. Responsibilities will also include conducting quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) reviews of data entered by other team members, identifying and troubleshooting data errors, and ensuring data accuracy, completeness, and integrity within these databases.

Assists with reporting of biological, chemical, and physical data for surface water environments.

Provides technical assistance to the local DEP District with sampling and other monitoring or bioassessment needs. Conducts complaint investigations as requested for non-point source or point source related water pollution violations, such as fish kills, algae blooms, reports of odor, foam. Responds in a timely manner to inquiries from the public, the media, and elected officials, according to established agency guidelines and procedures.

Provides action item reply within required time frames. Attends programmatic training as necessary. Assist in the training of newer personnel as necessary.

Organizes and maintains equipment and other sampling gear. This includes organization of field projects, keeping inventory of coolers, kits and supplies needed for projects, cleaning of laboratory space, vehicles, and equipment. Performs maintenance or facilitates maintenance on sampling equipment.

Use of boats to perform duties will be 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…