Environmental Protection Specialist

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking an Environmental Protection Specialist for the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System. This role involves managing environmental compliance and sustainability, conducting audits, advising on process improvements, and ensuring adherence to regulations. Candidates must have GS-11 experience and a valid driver's license. The position is full-time, Monday to Friday, with limited telework options. Salary ranges from $60K to $80K annually.
SummaryEnvironmental Protection Specialist serves as the Green Environment Systems Manager (GEMS) for the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System. The employee applies specialized knowledge of planning and administering environmental compliance and sustainability using the Environmental Management Systems format.QualificationsCurrent federal employee with GS-11 experience for at least 52 weeks (time‑in‑grade requirement for GS‑12).One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS‑11 in planning and implementing program policies, ensuring compliance with environmental laws, managing permits, leading audits, advising on process improvements, and evaluating data for significant trends.Valid State Driver’s License.Physical fitness to perform regular audits, including walking, standing, bending, carrying, and operating protective equipment.ResponsibilitiesProvide professional and technical services related to environmental issues and program planning to achieve compliance with regulations.Inspect and verify documentation for hazardous material and waste transportation.Correct issues at inspection time and develop corrective action plans.Advise organizations on procedural methods and process improvements.Develop and implement quality control and assurance practices.Author reports on regulatory non‑compliance.Evaluate need for additional or improved facilities and personnel development.Review construction project plans for pollution control features.Serve as an expert on interpretation of environmental regulations and technical issues.Advise senior management on environmental programs and recommend changes to meet new requirements or reduce impact.Adapt various media for special training and promotion activities.Identify process improvement projects to reduce environmental impacts.Perform other duties as assigned.Working ConditionsWork period: Monday‑Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm. Telework may be authorized on an ad‑hoc basis; virtual work is not available. The position involves office work and frequent audits of waste storage areas, storm‑water drains, and other facilities.#J-18808-Ljbffr