RRC - Engineering Specialist II - Environmental Permits Section - Technical Permitting

Railroad Commission Of Texas - Austin, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Austin, TX

Administration of Economic Programs

About the position

The Railroad Commission of Texas is seeking an Environmental Scientist/Geologist/Engineer to evaluate moderately complex permits within the Environmental Permits and Support Unit of the Oil and Gas Division. This role involves applying knowledge of environmental, engineering, and geological principles to assess permit applications and technical data related to oil and gas waste management. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting technical reviews, performing geological and hydrological studies, and assisting clients with inquiries, all while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical review of moderately complex permit applications filed under the Commission's oil and gas waste management regulations.
• Conduct moderately complex soils, geological, and hydrological studies to identify potential problems from the maintenance and use of oil and gas waste management facilities.
• Review and interpret soil maps, geologic maps, engineered drawings, and other subsurface or surface information.
• Evaluate data and prepare reports and recommendations based on analysis of issues.
• Interpret and review documentation and literature using scientific knowledge to enforce Commission rules and statutes.
• Review waste treatment and disposal applications for technical accuracy and completion.
• Prepare requests for supplemental data to address deficiencies in permit applications.
• Ensure permits maintain conditions necessary to prevent pollution of surface and subsurface waters.
• Assist clients with inquiries via phone, email, and in person.
• Resolve issues or discrepancies through communication with operators and their representatives.
• Research and interpret hardcopy records, microfilms, and databases.
• Participate in creating and maintaining specialized databases to track core functions accurately.
• Meet and maintain work standards with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in engineering, natural resources, mathematics, or a related field.
• Experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
• A master's degree in a related field may substitute for two years of experience.
• Valid Texas Driver's license and a good driving record.

Nice-to-haves

• Licensed as a Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS), Professional Geoscientist (PG), or Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas or a U.S. state with reciprocity.
• Two years of experience with a regulatory agency, waste management industry, or related field.
• Experience in environmental services, remediation, and assessment.
• Knowledge of the Railroad Commission's rules, policies, and procedures.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick time, and at least 12 paid holidays per year.
• Telework options for eligible positions.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Retirement pension with a 150% agency match.
• 401(k), 457(b) and Roth options.
• Health premiums 100% paid for full-time employees.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Wellness and Exercise Leave.
• Career development programs/opportunities for advancement.