Water Quality Specialist Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

About the role

The Water Quality Specialist Trainee position with the Department of Environmental Protection offers hands‑on training and guidance from experienced environmental professionals. The role provides an opportunity to learn how to monitor sites, review conditions, and support important environmental laws while beginning a career protecting Pennsylvania’s natural resources.

Responsibilities

• Data Entry: Input and update environmental information in Department data systems.
• Knowledge Building: Learn laws, regulations, and procedures that guide environmental work.
• Inspection Support: Assist with routine inspections of oil and gas sites to observe environmental conditions.
• Complaint Assistance: Help investigate citizen complaints by gathering field information and samples.
• Plan Review: Support review of environmental plans and documents submitted by operators.
• Field Equipment: Operate and maintain basic scientific instruments during training activities.

Qualifications

• 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 within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree will be considered to have met the educational requirement.
• Active motor vehicle license (special requirement).
• Must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements.
• Ability to perform essential job functions.

Pay

Starting annual salary: $46,827 (before taxes) for selected candidates new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Schedule

• Full‑time, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch.
• Telework: Full‑time telework possible with a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and an approved location within Pennsylvania. Telework eligibility may change; otherwise, work is performed at the headquarters office in New Stanton.