Engineering Associate Trainee
Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is led by Secretary Janet Stanek and comprises three divisions: Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance. This unique structure allows a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans. Verification of identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States is required by federal law. KDHE does not provide sponsorships for this position and participates in E-Verify.
About the Role
The Kansas Department of Health & Environment is seeking an environmental engineer for the Bureau of Environmental Remediation's Topeka, KS office. This position reviews and prepares technical engineering documents relating to soil and groundwater remedial system designs and underground storage tank system designs. Field work includes overseeing and conducting start-up, operating, and post-construction inspections on BER-approved remedial system designs. The role involves project management, providing technical engineering and operational assistance for remediation systems, and collaborating with multiple programs, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.
Responsibilities
- Review technical engineering documents relating to soil and groundwater remedial system designs to ensure compliance with state statutes, regulations, bureau policies, and sound engineering principles.
- Prepare technical comments for review by a bureau-licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) before forwarding to the bureau project manager.
- Ensure preferred interim remedial measures (IRM), corrective actions, or final remedies are appropriate for site contamination based on geologic conditions, field pilot test results, and approved Remedial Action Objectives (RAOs).
- Provide technical engineering and operational assistance for remediation systems, evaluate data submittals, and make optimization recommendations.
- Summarize recommendations in technical memoranda for review by the P.E. prior to distribution to the bureau project manager and management.
- Perform other project management duties as assigned, including field oversight of remedial system start-up, operation, and post-construction inspections.
Requirements
- Four years of engineering education or experience.
- Valid Driver's License—required for operating state, private, or rental vehicles for state business.
- Must pass a physical certifying the ability to work in required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate—required for all state employees; must be obtained within ten days of a formal job offer.
Qualifications
Engineering Trainee:
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering.
- 0–2 years of experience with environmental remedial systems.
- Must work toward obtaining an intern engineering certification while in the position.
Engineering Associate:
- Engineer in Training (EIT) Certificate recognized by the Kansas Board of Technical Professions.
- 2–3 years of experience with environmental remedial systems.
Professional Engineer:
- Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.).
All Levels:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
- Strong proofreading, editing, and attention to detail.
- Ability to use personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Excellent communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with environmental remediation systems.
- Familiarity with ArcGIS.
Pay
- Engineering Trainee: $32.30 per hour
- Engineering Associate: $35.60 per hour
- Professional Engineer: $43.33 per hour
Salary may vary depending on education, experience, or qualifications.
Schedule
- Full-time, regular position.
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible schedules available).
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, and vision coverage.
- Sick and vacation leave.
- Work-life balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave.
- Paid state holidays (designated annually by the Governor).
- Fitness centers in select locations.
- Employee discounts through the STAR Program.
- Retirement and deferred compensation programs.
Veterans' Preference Eligible: Yes.