OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II - 37979161

Position Overview

The Environmental Specialist II, 37979161, is in the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration's Water Quality Monitoring Program, Northeast Regional Operation Center in Jacksonville and will be responsible for water quality sampling in freshwater and estuarine ecosystems, as well as groundwater wells, and preforming biological assessments of streams and lakes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform biological assessment and water quality sampling in freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems
• Conduct taxonomic analysis of freshwater, estuarine and marine flora, and fauna
• Perform logistical planning for field sampling events using GIS, internet, mapping programs, databases, and other sources
• Perform data accuracy reviews and enter data into various storage and retrieval systems
• Assist with reporting of biological, chemical, and physical data for surface water environments
• Provide technical assistance to the local DEP District with sampling and other monitoring or bioassessment needs
• Conduct complaint investigations related to water pollution violations
• Respond to inquiries from the public, media, and elected officials
• Organize and maintain equipment and sampling gear
• Perform maintenance on sampling equipment
• Snorkeling may be required
• Participate in Boater safety training

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, natural sciences, biological sciences, or physical sciences from an accredited university or college
• One year of verifiable related experience; or any combination of post-secondary education or verifiable related experience for a total of five years
• Valid Driver's License
• Ability to travel, including long days and occasional overnight travel

Preferred Qualifications

• 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
• 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
• Skill in floral and/or faunal biological assessments

Benefits & Perks

• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)
• Participation in the Florida Deferred Compensation Plan (457b)
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan)
• Flexible Spending Accounts