Environmental Compliance Specialist

Job Overview

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application. If you are ready to assist the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in furthering its mission of conserving and enhancing our natural resources and improving quality of life in Iowa, then we have a job for you!

We are seeking a new team member at Environmental Field Office #6 located in Washington, Iowa. As an Environmental Specialist, you will work with a team of professionals to promote compliance with environmental laws and ensure a safe and clean environment in a 16‑county region of southeast Iowa.

• Prepare for and conduct on‑site inspections of public water supplies, wastewater treatment facilities, animal feeding operations, air pollution sources and control equipment, storm water control, sanitary disposal projects, regulated underground storage tank systems, and floodplains. Inspection duties include sampling for environmental contaminants and interpreting scientific data.
• Access, input, interpret, and manage data in computer systems and databases of the Department related to regulated facilities and environmental monitoring, and use these data resources to prepare investigations, monitor compliance, retrieve information, and prepare reports and other communications.
• Communicate regulatory requirements and factual findings to the general public and regulated parties orally and through written communication, and hold meetings with public officials, environmental professionals, and regulated parties.
• Prepare for and conduct investigations of complaints of environmental violations, and respond to spills of hazardous chemicals and releases from underground storage tanks. This work requires knowledge of applicable regulations, scientific principles, facility records, geographic information, and physical inspection of facilities or events, including sampling and data interpretation.
• Inspect and determine compliance with environmental programs, including public water supplies, wastewater treatment, animal feeding operations, air pollution sources and control equipment, storm water controls, sanitary disposal projects, and regulated underground storage tanks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, technical information, regulatory requirements, department policies, procedures, and guidance to public officials, industrial professionals, and others.
• Use PC‑based computer systems and software routinely and effectively for communication, data analysis, and report preparation.
• Work outdoors and endure physically demanding conditions frequently and for long periods, including traversing rough terrain and stream banks, stooping, climbing ladders, bending, and lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Take instructions or requests from Supervisor and Lead Worker.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with management, DNR staff, stakeholders, and the public.
• Travel frequently during the work week, with some overnight stays.
• Respond to emergency response calls during on‑call periods and follow up on‑site as needed.
• Must possess or obtain a valid Iowa driver’s license.

Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Computer Skills, Self‑Management, Technical Skills (environmental compliance, regulations, rules).

• A competitive pay plan and rewarding work.
• Insurance benefits beginning the first of the month following 30 days of employment.
• Separate vacation and sick leave accruals beginning on the first day and rollable annually.
• Nine paid holidays per year.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.
• Optional deferred compensation (457/401(A) plan) with employer match.
• Professional training opportunities.
• A family‑friendly and professional work environment.
• Employee discount programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling).
• Total compensation package including benefits worth about 30% of your total compensation.
• Flexible work…