Environmental Scientist III

Pay Grade 15 | Salary $4,297.66 - $5,941.50 Monthly | Full-time (37.5 hr/wk) | Eligible for overtime pay

About the Agency

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) improves the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting land, air, and water resources while utilizing natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. The Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement (DMRE) inspects all surface and underground coal mining permits in the state to ensure compliance with the 1977 Federal Surface Mining Control Act (SMCRA).

Responsibilities

• Lead and provide support and technical oversight of complex inspections of surface effects of coal mining operations.
• Issue non-compliance and cessation orders; complete and process mine site evaluation and enforcement documents.
• Respond to complaints and conduct investigations to determine compliance with regulations; document citizens' complaints.
• Attend hearings and provide expert legal testimony in legal proceedings.
• Attend required training.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a natural, biological, or physical science or a bachelor’s degree with 20 semester hours in a natural, biological, or physical science.
• Experience: Three years of experience in natural resources, environmental control, or a related area.
• Substitutions:
  • Graduate study in a natural, biological, or physical science may substitute for required experience on a year-for-year basis.
  • Experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering, or a related area may substitute for required education on a year-for-year basis.

Skills

• Communication and organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Teamwork
• Decision-making

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with frequent statewide field travel.
• May be exposed to adverse weather, snakes, insects, water-borne pathogens, broken glass, rusty metal in streams, and electro-fishing equipment hazards; safety procedures must be followed.