Environmental Scientist I

Advertisement closes 9/8/2026 (11:59 PM ET). Full-time position, 37.5 hours per week, eligible for overtime pay.

About the role

The Kentucky Energy & Environment Cabinet (EEC) seeks an Environmental Scientist I to join the Division for Air Quality, Program Planning & Administration Branch, Regulation Development Section in Franklin County. This office-based role supports the development, promulgation, and implementation of state air quality regulations. The agency may authorize telecommuting, with the possibility of termination or modification at any time.

The mission of the EEC is to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting land, air, and water resources while utilizing natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. This position offers a positive work environment and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Kentucky's environment.

Responsibilities

• Under direct supervision, assist in drafting, revising, and promulgating Kentucky air quality regulations.
• Review changes to federal environmental regulations and evaluate their applicability for adoption into Kentucky's regulatory framework.
• Research and interpret the Clean Air Act, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance, and other federal requirements to support regulatory development.
• Coordinate with the Legislative Research Commission (LRC) and other stakeholders throughout the administrative regulation promulgation process.
• Prepare regulatory documents, technical support materials, and responses required for the regulation development and promulgation process.
• Support public participation through conducting public hearings and managing public comment periods.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills you will learn

• How to develop and promulgate Kentucky administrative regulations.
• How to navigate the administrative regulation process, including coordination with the LRC.

Requirements

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and explain complicated environmental regulations.
• Work well within a team setting and be self-motivated.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in a natural, biological, or physical science or a bachelor's degree including or supplemented by 20 semester hours in a natural, biological, or physical science.

Experience: None required. Experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering, or a related area may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based, with most communication conducted via email and phone.
• May require fieldwork with frequent statewide travel.
• Potential exposure to adverse weather conditions, snakes, insects, water-borne pathogens, broken glass, rusty metal in streams, and hazards common to operation of electro-fishing equipment. Safety procedures must be followed.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $3,551.88 - $4,910.60 (Pay Grade 13).

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional development and upward movement within the agency.
• Initial and promotional probationary period of 6 months (except as provided in KRS 18A.111).