Environmental Specialist - Environmental Specialist 1 or Environmental Specialist 2

The Environmental Specialist position at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency involves managing Superfund projects, conducting environmental investigations, and engaging with stakeholders to address contaminated sites. Candidates need experience or a related degree in environmental protection. The role supports telework flexibility, promoting work-life balance while contributing to environmental protection and public health efforts in Minnesota.
About the position

The Environmental Specialist position at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is designed for individuals who are passionate about environmental protection and management. This role is critical in overseeing and managing projects within the Superfund family of programs, which are essential for addressing contaminated sites across Minnesota. The incumbent will be responsible for directing and assisting in environmental investigations, ensuring that cleanup actions are taken when necessary, and determining if sites can be closed based on best management practices. This position requires the development of site conceptual models that accurately represent areas of contamination, which will support the creation of detailed maps indicating the extent of contamination. In this role, you will engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and environmental groups, to facilitate effective communication and collaboration on environmental issues. The position is full-time and offers the flexibility of telework, allowing for a balanced work-life environment. The MPCA is committed to equity and inclusion, providing employees with comprehensive benefits, support resources, and opportunities for professional development. As an Environmental Specialist, you will play a vital role in shaping policies and practices that enhance the quality of life for all Minnesotans. Your work will contribute to the agency's mission of protecting the environment and public health, making a meaningful impact on the community.

Responsibilities
• Perform project management of sites in the Superfund family of programs.
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• Direct and assist in the management of environmental investigations.
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• Assist senior staff with complex investigations to determine if cleanup actions are needed or if sites may be closed.
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• Develop site conceptual models for areas of identified contamination to support the development of maps showing the area of contamination.
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• Engage with stakeholders and team members to facilitate effective communication and collaboration on environmental issues.

Requirements
• Two years of environmental protection experience OR a Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field for Environmental Specialist 1.
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• Three years of environmental protection experience OR a Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field AND one year of professional environmental protection experience for Environmental Specialist 2.
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• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
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• Understanding of the environmental regulatory process and state and federal rules.
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• Basic computer skills with proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and PowerPoint.
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• Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience in environmental site investigations.
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• Proficiency with database management and software including GIS and EQuIS applications.
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• Experience with public communications efforts on health or environmental projects.
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• Knowledge of the overall state and federal environmental regulatory framework related to environmental investigations and cleanup of contaminated properties including Minnesota Environmental Response and Liability Act (MERLA).
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• Ability to work effectively with a diverse range of individuals and groups.
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• Participation in state or agency's student leadership pipeline programs such as Right Track, Step Up, Urban Scholar, Star of the North or Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers.

Benefits
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
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• Flexible scheduling options including telework.
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• Professional development opportunities and training resources.
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• Support for equity and inclusion initiatives.
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• Paid holidays and vacation time.