Environmental Scientist

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, or related discipline and four years experience in a related field, to include experience permitting stormwater systems. A master's degree as described above may be substituted for one year of the required professional experience. Additional course work in the physical sciences is desirable.

Special Abilities:

Preferred familiarity with stormwater permitting in Northwest Florida, its applicable rules, and the Florida Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM); expertise in water quality/limnology/ecology; knowledge of and experience with rare and endangered flora and fauna evaluation and identification; ability to evaluate written proposals in area of expertise; working knowledge of field equipment and laboratory procedures. Must be able to work in both an office and field environment. Must be physically capable of working in Florida’s climate and in rough terrain. Ability to utilize maps and GPS equipment to navigate throughout the District. Must have composition skills for writing informal and technical reports, as well as letters to applicants. Must have the ability to speak in front of a group and to make professional presentations. Must have the flexibility to work overtime if necessary.

Description of Position:

This is a highly responsible position accountable for the technical and administrative evaluation of environmental resource permit applications and exemptions, agricultural and forestry surface water management permit applications and exemptions, and other related issues under the criteria of Chapters 120 and 373, Florida Statutes and applicable Florida Administrative Codes. Work includes performing Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) and Management and Storage of Surface Water (MSSW) permit review for exemptions and permit applications, regarding wetland protection, water quality, and potential environmental effects for consistency with applicable administrative rules and Florida Statutes, and the preparation of technical staff reports for permits and other investigations. Coordinates with District staff, consultants and other local governments. Responsible for the processing of permit applications by ensuring that all noticing requirements and time frames are met, administrative details and requirements are fulfilled, and that all applications are processed in a timely and efficient manner. Preforms site inspections of proposed and completed stormwater projects. Attends pre-application meetings with applicants and consultants to discuss the rules and criteria and how they apply to permit applications and to resolve administrative and technical issues associated with the projects. Receives input from the public on applications with heightened public awareness and assesses the impact of the proposed stormwater system as it relates to public concerns. Further duties include providing technical, environmental, biological, ecological, and water quality expertise, including directing or assisting in the collection of surface water quality data; participating in the inspection of stormwater management facilities. Prepares internal reports regarding recommendations for approval or denial of permits and the need for specific conditions. Attends meetings with District staff, local government, state and federal personnel. May occasionally travel overnight and will make day trips to project sites. Assists the compliance staff in their resolution of issues associated with projects. Performs other duties as required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000