Sewage Planning Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

About the role

The Sewage Planning Trainee position with the Department of Environmental Protection is a great opportunity to learn how communities manage sewage planning and protect public health. This role offers hands‑on experience with local agencies and important environmental programs. You will build skills in reviewing plans, giving guidance, and supporting statewide sewage management efforts. This is an excellent starting point for someone who wants to help improve conditions for residents across the region.

Responsibilities

• Agency Evaluation: Conduct reviews of local agencies and sewage enforcement officers and recommend corrective actions when needed
• Complaint Review: Assess sewage complaints assigned by management and take appropriate action based on policy requirements
• Plan Review: Examine land development proposals and determine proper actions for exemptions and planning components
• Program Support: Assist in developing guidance documents and help deliver regional training for sewage enforcement officers
• Data Management: Maintain records in eFacts, OnBase, and databases for assigned Chapter 94 cases and planning activities
• Public Communication: Provide information to officials, consultants, and the public regarding programs, rules, and procedures

Schedule

Full-time employment; work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday‑Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch. The position requires travel. Telework may be available part‑time, up to 3 days per week, provided you have a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If telework is not possible, you may report to the headquarters office in Williamsport. Telework eligibility is 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 (before taxes).

Qualifications

Minimum experience and training: 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 one of those fields; or an equivalent combination of experience and training. Applicants within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree are considered to have met the educational requirements.

Special requirements: possession of an active motor vehicle license; must possess and maintain a REAL ID or passport (proof needed at conditional offer); must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements; must be able to perform essential job functions.

Examination Information

Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as the exam for this position; no additional test‑center exam is required. Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on the application and in response to the supplemental questions, is valid only for this posting, and will be provided via email. You must provide complete and accurate information; incomplete or inaccurate information may lower your score or result in disqualification. You may only apply/test once for this posting.