Air Quality Specialist Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is seeking an Air Quality Specialist Trainee to help protect the air that Pennsylvanians breathe. This role offers hands-on field work, meaningful public service, and an opportunity to develop strong environmental skills while supporting inspections, investigations, and data collection in the southeast region.

About the role

This position includes a 12-month training period where you will learn the specialized duties of an Air Quality Specialist. You will focus on inspecting facilities, investigating complaints, and collecting emission data to support clean air standards in an assigned region. Your work will ensure compliance with environmental rules and maintain accurate records for state and federal programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of air pollution sources and control equipment to determine compliance with regulations.
• Gather and input emission inventory information into required systems to maintain accurate records.
• Assess reports, submissions, and operating conditions to determine whether facilities meet air quality requirements.
• Investigate air pollution complaints by interviewing individuals, reviewing operations, and preparing technical reports.
• Document violations, prepare memos, and assist in actions needed to resolve non-compliance issues.
• Monitor source tests, collect material samples, and evaluate data to determine environmental conditions.

Schedule

• Full-time employment.
• Work hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Occasional travel required.
• Telework: Up to 3 days per week, with a securely configured high-speed internet connection and an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If unable to telework, you may report to the headquarters office in Norristown. Telework eligibility is subject to change.

Pay

Starting annual salary: $46,827.00 (before taxes) for candidates new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• Four years of technical experience in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Applicants within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree will be considered to have met the educational requirements.

Qualifications

• Possession of an active motor vehicle license.
• Must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.