Water Permit Writer

Job Description

This position is responsible for developing Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) wastewater discharge permits in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, policy and guidance.

Hiring Range: $57,733 - $82,042

Employment Type: FULL TIME

The primary responsibilities of this position are to review permit applications and develop technically accurate and legally enforceable permits in a timely manner, review permit-related monitoring reports, conceptual engineering reports, sludge management plans, facility closure plans, tax exemption requests and other operation and design submittals, and provide technical support for permit related compliance and enforcement actions by working with clients to resolve issues efficiently, openly, fairly and consistently.

• Knowledge, gained through education and/or experience, of environmental engineering principles and practices and water pollution control practices.
• Knowledge of state Water Quality Standards and federal and state water quality laws and regulations.
• Knowledge, skills and abilities in project management and personal computer operations (including word processing, spreadsheets, and database management).
• Ability to read, interpret and properly apply complex policies, guidelines and regulations.
• Ability to read and evaluate applications, engineering analyses, permits, and related correspondence.
• Ability to communicate and negotiate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to collaboratively work in a team environment.
• Must be sensitive to public attitudes and concerns while effectively carrying out the agency mission.
• Must be able to work with multiple stakeholders as necessary to resolve issues while being efficient, transparent, fair and consistent.
• Combination of education or training with major coursework in environmental engineering and/or natural science or a combination of work experience and education demonstrating an equivalent technical background.
• This position may require you to operate a state owned or leased vehicle. Therefore, a valid driver's license is required.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the primary environmental permitting agency in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is responsible for administering laws and regulations related to air quality, water quality, water supply, renewable energy, and land protection. Through the dedication and work of over 800 employees across six regional offices and the Central Office in Richmond, DEQ issues permits, conducts monitoring and inspections, and enforces the law.