Environmental Specialist

Description of Work

This Environmental Specialist I provides technical assistance and compliance enforcement to the Animal Feeding Operations (AFO) program for permitting land-based application of animal waste to protect water quality and the environment. 2000+ permitted animal facilities statewide have a certified Animal Waste Management Plan as an operational guideline in tune with general, individual, and NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permits. This position helps permittees operating these facilities stay compliant and operate the animal waste management systems without polluting the surface and ground waters of the state.

Site visits involve potential exposure to various environmental and other hazards associated with AFO. Valid driver’s license required for driving state vehicles.

The following types of knowledge/experience are not required, but may be helpful in this position:
-- Animal waste management alternatives and recommendations
-- Soil science, cropping systems, agronomy, agriculture processes and operations, nutrient management, and hydrology
-- Chemistry and biology as they apply to water quality, animal waste, and wastewater treatment facilities
-- Working with applications and/or plans for environmental permits
-- Data gathering techniques and procedures, including file reviews, database research, and onsite collection


Key Responsibilities

-- Provide technical and compliance assistance to permittees, internal and external stakeholders, and AFO program supervisor

-- Review animal waste permit applications to determine site and soil suitability for use as an animal waste land application site

-- Conduct compliance and enforcement activities for animal operations statewide including site visits, follow-up visits, reports, and enforcement letters

-- Review non-compliant sites and facilities that may be in violation and jeopardize the environment; determine adequacy of facilities’ plans in meeting state requirements

-- Investigate and respond to agricultural complaints and environmental emergencies, including conducting site visits, interviewing involved parties, and collecting appropriate samples

-- Respond to data requests and assist with public outreach through stakeholder groups, public and media inquiries, educational institutions, and governmental agencies