Environmental Scientist III

The Commonwealth of Kentucky is hiring an Environmental Scientist III in Hazard, KY, to support the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement. Responsibilities include overseeing inspections of coal mining operations, issuing compliance orders, and conducting investigations. Candidates should have a degree in a relevant science and three years of experience. The position offers opportunities for professional development and aims to improve Kentucky's environmental quality.
Description

The mission of the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) is to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting our land, air, and water resources by utilizing our natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. We do this by helping families connect with nature and preserving the Commonwealth’s natural heritage; and by supporting innovative, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions that together bring economic benefit to the commonwealth.

If you are looking for a positive work environment and a career where you can make a difference in the environment we live in, then EEC is the cabinet for you. For more information on what our cabinet has to offer, check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWSuC43XqlHchYeQ66tP7tg and our Careers page https://eec.ky.gov/Pages/careers.aspx

The Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement (DMRE) is responsible for inspecting all surface and underground coal mining permits in the state to ensure compliance with the 1977 Federal Surface Mining Control Act (SMCRA). By joining the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement, Hazard Section II as an Environmental Scientist III, you will have the opportunity to provide support and technical oversight regading surface effects of coal mining to state and federal agencies, local governments, and the general public in the development, interpretation, and implementation of environmental protection, mitigation and natural resource policies.

Holders of the Environmental Scientist III position will complete tasks such as:
• Lead and provide support and technical oversight of more complex inspections of surface effects of coal miningoperations.
• Issue non-compliance and cessation orders and also complete and process mine site evaluation and enforcementdocuments.
• Respond to complaints and conduct investigations to determine compliance with regulations and documentcitizens' complaints.
• Attend hearings and provide expert legal testimony in legal proceedings
• Attend training as required.

Desired candidates possess the following requisite skills or experience applicable to the position:
• Communication and organizational skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Time Management.
• Teamwork.
• Decision-making skills.

EEC provides opportunities for development and upward movement. There is room to grow your skillset as you build your career. Come join our team and make an impact in the future of Kentucky. We look forward to reviewing your application.

EEC participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. EEC will only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that EEC has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at 888-897-7781 or https://www.e-verify.gov/.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in a natural, biological or physical science OR Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree including or supplemented by 20 semester hours in a natural, biological or physical science.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: Three years of experience in natural resources, environmental control, or a related area.

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: Graduate study in a natural, biological, or physical science will substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: Experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering, or a related area will substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in an office setting. Incumbents in this class may perform work in the field with frequent travel on a statewide basis. An incumbent in the position may be subject to adverse weather conditions, exposure to snakes and insects, water-borne pathogens, broken glass, rusty metal in streams, and hazards common to operation of electro-fishing equipment, which require the following of safety procedures.