Environmental Compliance Regulatory Specialist I

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is comprised of three divisions: Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance (which includes the State’s Medicaid program, KanCare). We are the only agency in the nation to have these three entities under one roof, allowing us to take a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans.

About the role

The Storage Tank Section is seeking a friendly and motivated candidate to join our team as an Environmental Compliance & Regulatory Specialist in Topeka, KS. This is an entry-level opportunity ideal for individuals looking to start their career in the environmental field, as well as experienced professionals interested in transitioning into environmental compliance work. This position requires either a bachelor's degree in any field or at least two years of experience in the environmental field.

KDHE offers a supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development in the environmental field, including multiple training opportunities to strengthen technical knowledge and regulatory expertise. After the first six months of employment, the selected candidate is eligible for a hybrid schedule with up to two days of remote work per week.

Responsibilities

• Assist facility owners and operators in understanding requirements and returning to compliance with state and federal underground storage tank (UST) regulations.
• Serve as the compliance manager for an assigned group of UST facilities.
• Review permitting applications and compliance documentation.
• Issue permits once violations have been corrected and requirements are met.
• Communicate daily with the regulated community to provide guidance on tank compliance and permitting issues.
• Act as lead worker for reviewing and processing new installation applications for newly installed underground storage tanks.
• Serve as the backup lead worker responsible for processing repair and upgrade forms for UST equipment.
• Perform compliance evaluations and complete office studies prior to approving plans submitted to KDHE for new UST systems.
• Evaluate whether equipment used in new installations of UST systems meets state and federal regulations for corrosion protection, spill prevention, and overfill prevention.
• Assess methods of UST system release detection to ensure compatibility with state and federal regulations.
• Utilize scientific insight regarding new tank installations to determine that state and federal pollution prevention requirements are met.
• Maintain a list of manufacturers of tanks and pipes used for UST system installations in Kansas that have provided current certificates of pollution liability insurance to meet the terms of the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005.
• Approve UST installation applications for manufacturers who have submitted required insurance certificates.
• Conduct detailed reviews of inventory control and release detection records at facilities for permitting purposes or if the primary means of release detection has failed, increased scrutiny is required, or other special circumstances.
• Complete reviews within 10 working days of receipt if the primary method of release detection has failed.

Requirements

• Two years of experience in an environmental field and/or program. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the agency.
• Valid Driver's License – Incumbent is required to have and maintain a valid driver's license when operating a state vehicle, a private vehicle, or a rental vehicle for the benefit of the State.
• A valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate is required for employment. Applicants (including non-residents) must obtain this within ten (10) days of a formal job offer.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years of experience with emphasis in environmental/agricultural sciences or natural resources.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Strong proofreading, editing, and attention to detail skills.
• Public speaking experience.
• Experience with database/data management systems.
• Training or work experience in the installation, maintenance, and operation of underground storage tanks.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including experience with public presentations.
• Experience with USTs and ASTs.

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 by the Governor annually).
• Fitness Centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Pay

Pay rate: $24.72-$27.25 per hour. Salary may vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.

Schedule

Full-time, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Flexible schedules available.