Position Overview and Responsibilities
The Environmental Specialist II for the Onsite Sewage Program (OSP) plays a crucial role at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection by overseeing the inspection and regulation of septic systems in their service hub. This position ensures that new constructions, repairs, and modifications of septic systems comply with state environmental standards, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment.
This position is located within the Onsite Sewage Program, a vital component of the Department’s efforts to manage and protect the state’s water resources.
Primary Responsibilities
This is a first‑level intermediate environmental professional position responsible for conducting mid‑to‑high complexity application and project reviews, site inspections, data entry and analysis, drafting reports, permits, and other correspondence, and assisting with the development and implementation of a statewide environmental regulatory program. The job requires an advanced understanding of scientific principles and skills in applying rules and instructions to accomplish a variety of job functions related to environmental protection and regulation.
Duties
- Perform routine construction installation inspections and re‑inspections for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) to ensure compliance with Chapter 62‑6, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) and other applicable Florida statutes and rules.
- Make preliminary site visits to evaluate properties for on‑site sewage system installations, including soil suitability, lot size, water table, percolation rate, drainage, and compliance with Chapter 62‑6, F.A.C.
- Review OSTDS permit applications and site evaluation information to establish system construction criteria in compliance with appropriate Florida statutes and Chapter 62‑6, F.A.C.
- Inspect and evaluate new on‑site sewage disposal system installations to ensure adequate tank and drain field capacity, proper elevation, drain field cover, distances from wells, setbacks, and compliance with Chapter 62‑6, F.A.C.
- Enter data into the database and issue permits within established time frames.
- Issue permits for construction, repair, and operation of OSTDS consistent with Chapter 62‑6, F.A.C., and other applicable statutes and rules.
- Inspect individual sewage disposal system installations at commercial establishments and residences where prior site evaluation revealed limitations, providing specialized installation guidance.
- Advise the public on OSTDS program requirements and methods of complying with applicable statutes and rules.
- Conduct follow‑up activities to assist OSTDS operators in returning to compliance without enforcement.
- Respond to, investigate, and take steps to resolve complaints.
- Recommend enforcement action for violations of applicable statutes and rules when necessary.
- Participate in drafting enforcement documents and in enforcement meetings.
- Provide technical assistance to applicants, contractors, engineers, and other governmental agencies regarding Department rules, guidelines, and policies.
- Enter documentation and data into designated databases.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of informational resources and data sets related to OSTDS permit applications, compliance assistance, enforcement activities, and regulatory guidance.
- Perform work assignments independently and under limited direct supervision.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of terminology, principles, and analytical techniques of the physical or natural sciences; field sampling techniques for soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediment; and identification of Florida soils and wet‑season groundwater tables using USDA NRCS methodologies. Skills in understanding and applying applicable state and federal statutes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to environmental programs; determining work priorities; maintaining effective working relationships; and proficient use of computer applications such as Microsoft Office, Access, SharePoint, and Outlook. Ability to solve problems, make decisions informed by statutes and policies, communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, collect and interpret scientific or technical data, follow departmental directions, conduct site visits in varied weather conditions, and demonstrate personal integrity, responsibility, and accountability.
Minimum Qualifications
At least five (5) years of verifiable related experience in public or environmental health. Post‑secondary degrees 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 for foreign degrees. Valid driver’s license and ability to travel, including occasional overnight trips.
Licensing and Certifications
Environmental Health Professional Certification in Onsite Sewage Systems, or be a Registered Sanitarian, or the equivalent under s.381.0101, Florida Statutes, within six (6) months of employment.
