Environmental Specialist I/II - Water Quality - Environmental Management

Major Functions

The County of Volusia is seeking an experienced Environmental Specialist I/II for the Environmental Management Division, located in DeLand, Florida.

Environmental Specialist I

Entry-level position work conducting in-situ water quality environmental projects, studies and programs, performing complex field sampling and laboratory work and analysis. Sampling will be conducted on, but not limited to, estuarine, riverine, lacustrine and stormwater systems.

Environmental Specialist II

Progressively responsible position performing and managing in-situ water quality environmental projects, studies and programs, performing complex field sampling and laboratory work and analysis. Sampling will be conducted on, but not limited to, estuarine, riverine, lacustrine and stormwater systems.

Illustrative Duties

• Operates field sampling and testing equipment for air and water analysis.
• Assists in pollution surveys by obtaining and recording essential information and collecting samples for laboratory analysis.
• Documents all activities.
• Prepares daily reports, summarizes, and recommends appropriate action to be taken.
• May be assigned to other county locations based upon operational needs.
• Attends work on a regular and consistent basis.
• Must adhere to Federal, State, County and local ordinances.
• Responds to emergency situations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Operates boat and trailer.

Minimum Requirements

Environmental Specialist I - $21.97 per hour

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering or related field.

A comparable amount of education, training, or experience may be substituted for the minimum requirements.

The preferred candidate, having met the minimum requirements, will have at least one (1) year of experience with in-situ waterbody sampling, and boat and trailering operation, and statewide water quality issues including Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL's) and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and water sample collection including preparing bottle kits, electronic field reports and calibrating water quality equipment.

Environmental Specialist II - $25.87 per hour

Three (3) years as an Environmental Specialist I with the County.

OR

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering or related field, and three (3) years of experience in environmental investigation and analysis. A comparable amount of education, training, or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

The preferred candidate, having met the minimum requirements, will have at least one (1) year of experience with in-situ waterbody sampling, and boat and trailering operation, and statewide water quality issues including Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL's) and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and water sample collection including preparing bottle kits, electronic field reports and calibrating water quality equipment.

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  Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental science.
• Knowledge of County, State and Federal environmental codes, ordinances, and rules.
• Knowledge of issues and impacts on water quality, including nonpoint source pollution.
• Ability to operate equipment used for the sampling of water, and field-testing equipment used for sample analysis.
• Ability to safely operate and trailer motorized vessels in fresh and salt waterways.
• Ability to perform complex chemical and biological laboratory work.
• Ability to identify and classify biological specimens.
• Ability to take accurate readings, to keep routine records, and prepare schedules and reports.
• Ability to check equipment and to detect flaws or defects in operations, and noncompliance issues.
• Ability to meet and communicate effectively with the general public.
• Ability to safely operate and trailer motorized vessels in fresh and salt waterways.
• Ability to work effectively, collaborate, and engage other County, municipal, and State agencies and the general public.
• Experience with public speaking.