Class Definition
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES
To supervise the work of a staff and participate in performing the most comprehensive, complex duties involving the design, review and analysis of environmental policies and programs; to be responsible for policy and program implementation and compliance with State and federal environmental laws, regulations and agency policies within the field of Environmental Management; and to do related work as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the direction of a superior with wide latitude for the exercise of initiative and independent judgment.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Plans, coordinates, directs and supervises a staff of professional, technical and clerical personnel engaged in environmental policy analysis.
Illustrative Examples of Work Performed
To supervise the work of a staff and participate in performing the most comprehensive, complex duties involving the design, review and analysis of environmental policies and programs; to be responsible for policy and program implementation and compliance with State and federal environmental laws, regulations and agency policies within the field of Environmental Management; and to do related work as required.
To develop recommendations and assist Department leaders in creating new policies, regulations, plans, legislation and programs.
To promote better environmental stewardship for the protection of the State’s natural resources.
To make public and professional presentations concerning environmental policies and programs.
To prepare environmental policy reports, papers, speeches, lectures, testimony, and articles.
To be responsible for the review of agency plans, policies, regulations and statutes for accuracy and thoroughness in meeting stated goals of improving environmental protection of Rhode Island’s natural resources.
To study and evaluate new fields of environmental services and the need for pilot programs in the State and local communities.
To provide guidance and advise federal, State, local officials, and the public in matters related to environmental programs that protect natural resources.
To coordinate state grant programs and prepare related paperwork.
To provide training, answer questions, interpret laws, rules and regulations to guide lower-level analysts as needed.
To act as a liaison between State, the legislature and governmental agencies in matters regarding environmental policies and programs and apprise the Director, Associate Directors, Administrators and other senior staff of current developments.
To maintain current and accurate environmental information/data to inform public officials and the public of environmental legislative changes/trends, which may significantly impact environmental or public health.
To prepare publications, policies and guidelines related to environmental protection, natural resources and economic development issues, as required.
To testify at public hearings on all matters related to the Department or the environment.
To do related work as required.
Required Qualifications for Appointment
KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND CAPACITIES
A thorough knowledge of the science, principles and
practices used in developing and sustaining environmental programs and conducting policy analysis; a thorough knowledge of the state’s environmental laws, regulations, policies and programs related to the protection of natural resources; a working knowledge of the fundamentals and methodologies commonly used in statistics and computer usage; the ability to plan, coordinate, direct and supervise the work of a professional, technical and clerical staff engaged in performing analytical and evaluative assessments of environmental policies and programs; the ability to communicate effectively and develop cohesive written reports, analyses and presentations; the ability to collect, analyze, and present environmental data and
information for use by the Department’s senior staff, program managers and section leaders; the ability to organize and staff committees, advisory committees, task forces and councils; and related capacities and abilities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Education: Possession of a Master’s degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Environmental Policy, or a closely related field
Experience: Employment in a responsible professional position in the environmental field with an understanding of federal, and State environmental programs, laws, regulations and policies.
Or, any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.
Supplemental Information
The preferred candidate would have experience in the following areas:
1. **Environmental Compliance Knowledge**
Familiarity with environmental regulations (e.g., NEPA, Clean Water Act) and sustainability practices to ensure projects meet legal requirements and minimize ecological impact.
2. **Risk Management**
Ability to assess potential environmental and construction risks, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory frameworks.
3. **Grant Writing and Management**
Experience securing and managing federal or state grants, particularly those tied to environmental initiatives, can be crucial for securing funding and managing budgets effectively.
4. **Stakeholder Engagement**
Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with public agencies, local governments, contractors, and the community, ensuring that projects meet stakeholder expectations and regulatory requirements.
5. **Permitting and Land Use Expertise**
Understanding of local, state, and federal permitting processes for construction projects, especially those related to environmental impacts such as wetlands, stormwater management, and erosion control.
6. **Data Analysis and Reporting**
Ability to analyze project data, track project impact metrics, and prepare reports that communicate compliance with regulatory requirements and project progress.
7. **Sustainable Construction Practices**
Knowledge of sustainable building practices, energy-efficient design, and materials, as well as green certification processes like LEED, to help promote eco-friendly construction projects.
8. **Technical Proficiency**
Familiarity with construction project management software (e.g., Procore, Primavera) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for site planning, progress tracking, and reporting.
9. **Contract Management**
Skill in drafting, negotiating, and managing contracts with vendors and subcontractors, ensuring adherence to budget and timeline while meeting environmental regulations.
10. **Cost Estimation and Value Engineering**
Expertise in cost estimation and value engineering to ensure that projects are completed within budget, while also integrating environmentally sustainable choices and optimizing resource use.
