SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)

Multiple permanent, full-time positions available in San Luis Obispo County. Hybrid telework schedule.

About the Role

Under the direction of the Environmental Branch Chief, the incumbent serves as an interdisciplinary team member, establishing and maintaining professional working relationships with internal project delivery partners, regulatory agencies, local partners, and interested parties involved with Caltrans projects. This position may require site visits, including travel to remote areas. Incumbents may be assigned lead responsibility for a specific project, program function, or area of expertise, and may mentor lower-level staff while serving as consultants to other technical staff, management, and agencies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and review of complex CEQA/NEPA environmental documents for transportation projects.
• Apply environmental regulations, integrate technical studies, and ensure environmental commitments are incorporated into project design and construction.
• Manage multiple high-priority projects, track deadlines, and oversee consultant or staff workflows.
• Convey technical information clearly in writing and verbally while coordinating with regulatory agencies, partner agencies, and the public.

Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required when operating a State-owned or leased vehicle.
• Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required (see instructions below).
• Eligibility for hire may be determined by your score on the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) exam. New-to-State candidates must be on the state examination list.
• If basing eligibility on education, unofficial transcripts/diplomas must be provided. Foreign transcripts/degrees require a U.S. equivalency evaluation report.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. Applicants must meet the qualifications stated in the Classification Specification for Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist).

Skills

• Proficiency in CEQA/NEPA environmental documentation for transportation projects.
• Strong project management, including tracking deadlines and workflow oversight.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to coordinate with regulatory agencies, partner agencies, and the public.

Pay

$7,820.00 - $10,732.00 per month. New-to-State candidates will be hired at the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Special Instructions

Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Requirements:

• Must be typed, no more than two pages in length, using 12-point Arial font.
• Describe your knowledge and experience leading the preparation and review of complex CEQA/NEPA environmental documents.
• Describe your proficiency in applying environmental regulations, integrating technical studies, and ensuring environmental commitments are incorporated into project design and construction.
• Describe your experience managing multiple high-priority projects, tracking deadlines, and overseeing consultant or staff workflows.
• Describe your experience conveying technical information clearly in writing and verbally while coordinating with regulatory agencies, partner agencies, and the public.

Resumes and cover letters will not substitute for the SOQ. Failure to include or complete the SOQ as instructed may result in disqualification.