Environmental Protection Intern - Water Quality Permit Writer - 2461.

This job announcement is only open to residents of the State of Colorado.

About the role

The Permits Section develops and issues discharge permit actions (new, renewal, modification, termination) for discharges of pollutants from point sources to waters of the state, and controls discharges of pollutants to publicly owned treatment works (POTWs). These activities are mandated by the Colorado Water Quality Act. The Section also participates in the development of statutes, regulations, and policies related to the issuance and enforcement of such activities, determines Water Quality Planning Targets (WQPTs), and provides permitting and general public assistance.

This Environmental Protection Specialist (EPS) Intern (Permit Writer) position resides in Unit 1 of the Permits Section, the Stormwater, Groundwater, and Dewatering Permits Unit. The unit develops and implements individual and/or general discharge permits for construction stormwater, industrial stormwater, municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4), dewatering activities, remediation of groundwater, hydrostatic testing, aquatic animal production facilities, water treatment plants, and all domestic wastewater discharges to groundwater. The unit also provides collaborative support for compliance oversight, enforcement actions, TMDL development, and public assistance.

This position trains a permit writer to implement technology and water quality-based regulations that protect human health and the environment through permit actions. Work is designed to prepare the permit writer for the next level (EPS I) and to carry out established work processes by learning to apply procedures, techniques, rules, and regulations. The individual will undergo complete training to implement environmental protection regulations through permit actions, starting with more structured and straightforward assignments.

Responsibilities

• Learn and apply the regulatory framework for water quality permitting.
• Analyze and interpret scientific or environmental data, particularly water quality data.
• Develop facility- or sector-specific requirements for discharge permits.
• Provide permitting assistance and respond to public inquiries.
• Understand basic theories and principles of physical sciences, including hydrology and chemistry.

Requirements

You may qualify through one of the following:

• Four (4) years of relevant work experience (e.g., engineering, environmental consulting/science, regulatory, or water treatment operations) or
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, geology, hydrology, or a closely-related field.

Note: Part-time work will be prorated. Experience must be substantiated in the Work Experience section of your application; "See Resume" will not be accepted.

Preferred Qualifications

• Environmental regulatory experience.
• Knowledge of the Clean Water Act and/or the Colorado Water Quality Control Act.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret, analyze, and summarize scientific or environmental data, particularly water quality data.
• Experience applying or complying with surface water or groundwater quality requirements.
• Knowledge of basic chemistry regarding surface water, stormwater, wastewater requirements, and treatment chemicals.
• Experience with applied hydrology/stream flows.
• Experience working with standardized procedures and making decisions based on them.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong critical thinking skills, including the ability to make timely judgments and decisions.
• Ability to multitask and effectively prioritize work activities.
• Attention to detail when completing work tasks.
• Accountability for high-quality and timely results.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software programs, including Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to foster an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued.

Benefits

• Free parking and access to RTD bus lines.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Retirement options (PERA Defined Benefit Plan or Defined Contribution Plan, plus optional 401K and 457 plans).
• Medical and dental health plans.
• Paid life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 11 paid holidays per year and generous personal time off.
• Tuition assistance.
• Wellness programs.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system.
• Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

A pre-employment background check will be conducted as part of the selection process.