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Assistant Engineer (Environmental) / Engineer Trainee (3 Positions)-NY HELPS
Environmental Conservation - Stony Brook, NY
posted 4 months ago
About the position
The Assistant Engineer (Environmental) / Engineer Trainee positions are critical roles within the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, specifically designed to support the implementation of various environmental programs. These positions are part of the NY HELPS initiative, which allows for non-competitive appointments under specific conditions. The selected candidates will engage in a range of responsibilities that include reviewing and approving permit applications, engineering reports, and plans and specifications related to environmental engineering. They will also draft and issue State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) permits, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and standards. In addition to permit management, the Assistant Engineers / Engineer Trainees will play a vital role in community engagement through the Community Assistance Visit (CAV) program, fostering strong relationships with local municipalities. They will assist in the administration of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and provide technical support to local floodplain administrators. The positions require collaboration with federal and local agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to address complaints and enforce regulations effectively. Field inspections at permitted facilities will be a significant part of the job, where the candidates will track permit compliance and initiate enforcement actions when necessary. This may involve preparing documentation for compliance conferences and testifying in administrative hearings or court. The role demands strong analytical skills to organize and interpret data, communicate findings, and make sound recommendations based on inspections and investigations. Public speaking may also be required during interagency meetings and workgroups. Candidates must be prepared to work in various terrains and weather conditions, as field assignments may involve lifting up to 50 pounds and navigating difficult environments. The positions offer a blend of office and fieldwork, requiring effective teamwork and the ability to maintain professional relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Assist with the implementation of the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and Coastal Management Sections.
- Review, comment on, and approve permit applications, engineering reports, and plans & specifications.
- Draft and issue State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits and respond to public comments.
- Develop strong community relationships through the Community Assistance Visit (CAV) program.
- Assist with the administration of the NFIP program through audits and provide technical assistance to local floodplain administrators.
- Represent Department interests in the Shore Protection programs by providing regulatory guidance during project development and construction phases.
- Coordinate with the federal EPA and local municipalities to field complaints and enforce the Multi Sector General Permit (MSGP).
- Manage grant programs as assigned, including grant scoring, tracking, reporting, and contract management.
- Conduct field inspections at permitted facilities and track permit compliance.
- Initiate and follow up on enforcement actions, including preparing enforcement documentation and testifying in hearings or court.
- Communicate and convey factual information verbally and in writing, organize and analyze data, and write/edit inspection reports.
- Perform varied computer tasks and work in teams, maintaining effective working relationships with others.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or engineering technology, or proof of passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND one year of full-time engineering experience.
- Proof of passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND a qualifying bachelor's degree or higher for the Assistant Engineer (Environmental) title.
- One year of full-time experience in sanitary, public health, or environmental engineering.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with environmental regulations and compliance processes.
- Strong public speaking and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently in remote areas.
Benefits
- Holiday & Paid Time Off
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System
- Shift & Geographic pay differentials
- Affordable Health Care options
- Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
- NYS Deferred Compensation plan
- Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
