Sanitarian Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

Take the first step toward a future focused on protecting the environment and serving the public. As a Sanitarian Trainee with the Department of Environmental Protection, you will learn how to inspect water systems and apply important regulations. You will gain practical field experience and support efforts that keep communities safe. Begin a career that supports the well-being of residents throughout the Commonwealth.

About the role

This position supports the Safe Drinking Water Program by learning what it takes to review, inspect, and monitor public water systems to ensure public health protection. The role involves applying regulations and responding to water-related concerns across an assigned region.

Responsibilities

• Water System Inspections: Assist with and learn about conducting inspections and evaluations of public water systems to determine compliance with drinking water regulations.
• Technical Consultations: Provide information and guidance to operators, engineers, and the public on water system requirements and standards.
• Plan Review Support: Assist with the review of plans and specifications for new or existing water system components and assist technical staff with evaluations.
• Sampling Activities: Collect water samples, evaluate field data, and assist with monitoring programs for public water supplies.
• Compliance Tracking: Monitor water system reports and data to identify violations and help determine corrective actions.

Requirements

• Four years of technical experience in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Qualifications

• Possession of an active motor vehicle license.
• Possession and maintenance of a REAL ID or passport (proof required at the time of a conditional offer of employment).
• Must meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
• Ability to perform essential job functions.

Schedule

• Full-time employment.
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: Opportunity to work from home full-time with a securely configured high-speed internet connection from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If unable to telework, option to report to the headquarters office in Altoona. Telework eligibility subject to change.

Pay

Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin at the starting annual salary of $46,827.00 (before taxes).