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OPS Environmental Specialist I
State of Florida
Department of Environmental Protection
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 create strong community partnerships, safeguard Florida’s natural resources and enhance its ecosystem.
The Work You Will Do:
The OPS Environmental Specialist I, 37950160, is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration’s Water Quality Monitoring Program, South Regional Operation Center, located in Fort Myers and will be responsible for water quality sampling in freshwater and estuarine ecosystems as well as ground water wells, and performing biological assessments of streams and lakes. Duties for this position also include records management, calibration of field meters and maintenance of other field equipment.
The Difference You Will Make:
Water and natural resources are the foundation of Florida's communities, economy, and way of life. The Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration (DEAR) is charged with protecting, maintaining, and improving the quality of Florida’s springs, rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters.
How You Will Grow:
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.
Your Specific Responsibilities:
This environmental position performs biological assessment and water quality sampling in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems for the Water Quality Monitoring Program. Water quality sampling is conducted on both surface and groundwater. Biological assessments may include taxonomic analysis of freshwater, estuarine and marine flora, and fauna.
Performs data accuracy reviews on all data collected following QA/QC protocols. Enters and/or uploads biological, physical, and chemical data into various data storage and retrieval systems. Assists with reporting of biological, chemical, and physical data for surface water environments.
Provides technical assistance to the local DEP District with sampling and other monitoring or bioassessment needs. Conducts complaint investigations as requested for non-point source or point source related water pollution violations.
Organizes and maintains equipment and other sampling gear. This includes organization of field projects, keeping inventory of coolers, kits and supplies needed for projects, cleaning of laboratory space, vehicles, and equipment.
Snorkeling may be required. Participation in Boater safety training is required.
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 personal computers.
- Ability to prepare technical reports.
- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Ability to deal with the public in a courteous and respectful manner.
- Ability to work independently with general supervision and as part of a team.
Required Qualifications:
Associates degree and 2 years of relevant verifiable experience; or any combination of post-secondary education or verifiable related experience, as described in this posting, for a total of four years.
DEP is committed to successfully recruiting and onboarding talented and skilled individuals into its workforce. We recognize the extensive training, experience, and transferrable skills that veterans and individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce.
