Environmental Resources Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY       
Responsible for assisting with planning, implementing and promoting programs, initiatives and strategies identified in the City’s Water Resources Management Plan and related natural resources issues.

2024 Annual Salary: $74,982.27 – 97,023.15
Anticipated Hiring Range: $74,982.27 – 80,711.40

Major Areas of Accountability

1. Provides primary support for administrative requirements of Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s (MPCA) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit requirements.
2. Oversee implementation of Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) six minimum control measures.
   • Executes public education and outreach programs
   • Conducts public participation/Involvement programs for SWPPP input.
   • Coordinates illicit discharge detection and elimination (IDDE) programs.
   • Contributes to construction site stormwater runoff control programs.
   • Contributes to post-construction stormwater management programs.
   • Coordinates pollution prevention programs.
3. Prepares, organizes, and maintains reporting requirements for the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO) Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and Lower Minnesota River Watershed Waste Load Allocations (WLA).
4. Assists in implementation of Water Resources goals, initiatives and objectives.
   • Natural Resources Management Plan, Wetland Management Plan, East Lake Area Natural Resource Management Plan, and South Creek Management Plan.
5. Oversees City’s Lake Management Program, including implementation of Dakota County Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) plans and writing grant applications to secure funding.
6. Administers City’s Water Conservation Program, including writing grant applications to secure funding. Develop strategies, policies and procedures for watershed operations to identify opportunities for improvements and meet water supply conservation goals.
7. Serves as the City liaison in partnerships and collaborative efforts to explore and advance electric vehicle initiatives.
8. Miscellaneous duties and responsibilities as apparent or assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the principles and best management practices associated with protecting, preserving and managing natural resources and storm water management systems.
• Knowledge of the Federal Clean Water Act and MPCA MS4 General Permit provisions, MPCA SWPPP components and other applicable local, state and federal rules and regulations.
• Experience in organizing and communicating environmental and water/natural resources ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and complete work accurately on a timely basis.
• Ability to work outdoors in all-weather conditions and various terrains.
• Proficient in the use of mobile devices, Microsoft Office and GIS programs.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in physical or biological sciences, environmental studies, natural resources management, water resources or related field from an accredited college/university AND Five years of professional experience in an environmental, natural resources or water resources field; preferably for a municipal government OR Equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience totaling at least nine years.
• Certified Erosion, Sediment and Stormwater Inspector (CESSWI) and/or Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Valid driver’s license.