Surface Mine Conservation Inspector Trainee (Environmental Trainee)

THE POSITION

Are you ready to explore a career in which you can make a significant impact on Pennsylvania's environmental landscape? The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is excited to welcome a Surface Mine Conservation Inspector Trainee who is interested in learning how to support environmental quality and public safety. This position places you at the center of important fieldwork that helps protect land, water, and local communities. You will receive hands-on training and experience in a dynamic outdoor setting all while building strong working relationships. Apply today and bring your commitment and enthusiasm to a role that truly matters!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

Within this role, you will participate in a 12-month training program where you will receive on-the-job training to learn the duties of a Surface Mine Conservation Inspector. This position supports the monitoring and enforcement of laws that protect land, water, and public safety at mining sites across the state. The primary focus of this role involves learning how to conduct field inspections, effectively communicating with a wide-range of groups and officials, and carefully reviewing mining activities. As a Surface Mine Conservation Inspector Trainee, you will learn how to perform the following duties:

• Mining Site Inspections: Conduct inspections of mining sites to identify environmental or safety issues
• Law Enforcement: Apply mining laws and regulations and take action when violations occur
• Complaint Investigation: Investigate public complaints and gather facts about possible environmental impacts
• Accident Review: Examine mining accidents and document findings for safety improvements
• Permit Evaluation: Review permit applications and assess site conditions for compliance
• Public Communication: Share information with citizens, operators, and officials about mining activities and regulations

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• This position will handle inspections within Beaver, Mercer, and Lawrence Counties.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) full-time. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Knox. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $46,827.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training 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 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
  
  

Special Requirement:

• This position requires possession of an active motor vehicle license.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the abo