Environmental Scientist III
Advertisement closes 10/4/2026 (8:00 PM EDT). Pay Grade 15. Location: varies (serving Webster, Barren and/or surrounding counties in the West Kentucky District); telecommuting may be authorized.
About the role
The mission of the Kentucky Energy & Environment Cabinet (EEC) is to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting our land, air, and water resources by utilizing our natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. We do this by helping families connect with nature and preserving the Commonwealth’s natural heritage; and by supporting innovative, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions that together bring economic benefit to the commonwealth. If you are looking for a positive work environment and a career where you can make a difference in the environment we live in, then EEC is the cabinet for you. By joining the Division of Oil & Gas, West Kentucky Branch as an Environmental Scientist III in Webster and surrounding counties, you will have the opportunity to provide assistance and technical oversight to the oil and gas industry and work with private citizens, mineral owners and other state and federal agencies.
Responsibilities
- Lead staff activities and serve as a technical advisor within the KASTOW program.
- Evaluate permits and projects to determine compliance with existing regulations, promote pollution prevention, resource extraction, remediation, reclamation, mitigation and energy efficiency.
- Evaluate orphan well sites, develop downhole plugging instructions, and implement plans based on geology and well configuration.
- Conduct remediation and reclamation investigations for abandoned tank cleanups; perform site assessments; and review operation and reclamation plans.
- Provide technical expertise regarding complex well site and/or tank facilities inspections for oil, gas, and underground injection control wells.
- Implement policies and procedures to support regulatory compliance and to protect correlative rights.
Requirements
- Education: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in a natural, biological or physical science OR Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree including or supplemented by 20 semester hours in a natural, biological or physical science.
- Experience, training, or skills: Three years of experience in natural resources, environmental control, or a related area.
- Substitution rules: Graduate study in a natural, biological, or physical science substitutes for required experience on a year‑for‑year basis; experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering, or a related area substitutes for required education on a year‑for‑year basis.
- Special requirements: None.
Skills
- Knowledge about oil and gas wells
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Self‑motivated with excellent time‑management skills
- Ability to interpret and enforce regulations and policies
Benefits
EEC provides opportunities for development and upward movement; there is room to grow your skill set as you build your career.
Pay
Salary range: $4,297.66 – $6,060.44 per month.
Schedule
Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week; eligible for overtime.