Position Overview and Responsibilities
The Environmental Specialist II, 37950069, is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Water Quality Monitoring Program, Tallahassee Regional Operation Center in Tallahassee and will be responsible for water quality sampling in freshwater and estuarine ecosystems, as well as groundwater wells and performing biological assessments of streams and lakes. Duties for this position include record management, calibration of field meters and maintenance of field equipment. This position enables DEAR/TLH ROC the capability to accomplish monitoring goals of Strategic Monitoring Plan, Status and Trend Monitoring Networks, as well as respond to public concerns related to water quality of surface waters.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific or technical data.
- Ability to understand and interpret applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Skill in operating and trailering small powerboats.
- Skill with the use of personal computers.
- Ability to prepare technical reports.
- Ability to determine work priorities and ensure proper completion of work assignments.
- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Ability to deal with the public in a courteous and respectful manner.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
- Ability to be adaptable, flexible, resourceful and to maintain a positive outlook.
- Knowledge of terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical and natural sciences.
- Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and sampling techniques for measuring surface and ground water quality.
- Skilled in water quality sample collection techniques that include wading, snorkeling, and traversing difficult terrain.
- Ability to maintain a valid Class E Florida driver’s license and travel or drive long distances.
- Ability to travel, including long field days and occasional overnight travel.
- Knowledge of water quality field instruments.
- Ability to maintain or complete training on functional use of ESRI GIS software, MS Office software, Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and various data storage and retrieval systems.
- Ability to complete complicated or repetitive tasks accurately and efficiently as well as carry 40‑pounds while walking ten minutes (100 yards) over uneven terrain.
- Ability to become Habitat Assessment (HA), Stream Condition Index (SCI), Lake Vegetation Index (LVI), Rapid Periphyton Survey (RPS), and Linear Vegetation Survey (LVS) certified.
Minimum Qualifications
At least 5 years of verifiable related experience in environmental science, natural sciences, biological sciences, or physical sciences. Post‑secondary degrees from an accredited college or university with a major in chemistry, environmental science, natural sciences, biological sciences, or physical sciences may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year‑for‑year basis. A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.
Other Job Requirements
Valid Driver’s License. Occasional travel.
Our Organization and Mission
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship – protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.
Where You Will Work
The work location of this position is in Tallahassee (Leon County), Florida. The city hosts the Capital of Florida and seat of state government. The city is home to numerous parks offering outdoor activities, league sports and natural trails for running, hiking, and biking. Tallahassee is located just 22 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, which is home to some of the world’s top beaches. Florida State University, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee Community College, and several smaller colleges in the region offer a hub for academic research, athletics, art, music, and other student activities.
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