Environmental Specialist

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment seeks an Environmental Specialist for the Bureau of Air Permitting Unit in Topeka. This full-time, hybrid position involves reviewing air quality permits to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act and state regulations. Responsibilities include analyzing applications, verifying compliance, and collaborating with consultants. A bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field is required. The role offers flexible scheduling and competitive benefits.
About the position

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is seeking an Environmental Specialist to join the Bureau of Air Permitting Unit in Topeka. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to work in a hybrid environment, focusing on the review and issuance of air quality permits in compliance with the Clean Air Act and Kansas Air Quality Regulations. The successful candidate will engage in a variety of tasks, including the review of construction and operating permit applications, air emission calculations, and technical reports provided by permit applicants. This role is essential in ensuring that all necessary air quality information is accurately provided and that emissions from new constructions and modifications comply with federal and state regulations. The Environmental Specialist will be responsible for analyzing air quality control technology, verifying compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), and developing permits that encapsulate all air quality requirements for the sources. The position requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field, with an emphasis on biology, chemistry, or geology. While familiarity with air quality regulations is not mandatory, the agency provides comprehensive on-the-job training to equip the candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills. In addition to technical responsibilities, the role emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication with environmental and engineering consultants, planners, and designers to resolve any questions regarding permit applications. The KDHE promotes a positive work environment that values work-life balance, offering flexible work hours and competitive benefits. The typical work week is 40 hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, with options for flexible scheduling.

Responsibilities
• Review air quality applications from assigned facilities for State Construction Permits, State Construction Approvals, Class I Operating Permits, and Class II Operating Permits.
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• Ensure compliance with provisions of the Clean Air Act, including National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS).
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• Analyze air quality permit applications and emission calculations to ensure compliance with established air quality standards.
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• Review technical air quality reports and environmental plans for accuracy and appropriateness in air permit applications.
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• Contact environmental and engineering consultants to resolve questions regarding permit applications.
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• Develop and issue air quality permits, ensuring adherence to all federal and state regulations.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in environmental science with an emphasis on biology, chemistry, geology, or a related natural science.
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• Valid Driver's License.

Nice-to-haves
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships.
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• Knowledge of chemical, biological, and physical characteristics of pollutants.
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• Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations relating to air quality.
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• Ability to organize scientific data and draw logical conclusions.
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• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.

Benefits
• Health insurance
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• Dental insurance
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• Vision insurance
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• Military leave
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• On-the-job training
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• Parental leave
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• Flexible schedule
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• Bereavement leave
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• Employee discounts