Water Program Specialist

THE POSITION

Would you thrive in a career where you could help protect and restore Pennsylvania's waters through meaningful, science-focused work? Become a Water Program Specialist with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and take part in vital projects that support healthier rivers and streams across the state. Here, you will have the opportunity to develop plans, guide data collection, and assist teams working to improve water quality. This role provides numerous opportunities to enhance your technical skills and collaborate with experts in the field. Apply today to begin a profession where your contributions make a lasting environmental impact!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position helps develop statewide water quality plans, conducts monitoring activities, and supports technical guidance for water restoration efforts. As a Water Program Specialist, you will perform the following duties:

• Plan Development: Compose and review statewide Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) and Advance Restoration Plans (ARPs), and determine project priorities with staff and partners
• Field Monitoring: Lead surface water sampling activities and collect necessary data for plan development
• Technical Analysis: Perform modeling and calculations to assess pollutant loads and reduction goals
• Data Oversight: Conduct quality assurance checks, manage statewide monitoring plans, and respond to data requests
• Contract Coordination: Develop and manage contracts with vendors, consultants, and other agencies
• Equipment Management: Maintain and track water quality supplies and ensure readiness for monitoring activities

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• This position may require travel throughout the state.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. 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 Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• 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:

• Three years of professional environmental protection experience; and a bachelor's degree in the biological, physical, or environmental sciences, engineering, or in a field closely related to environmental protection or regulation; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes three years of professional environmental protection experience.

Condition of Employment:

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver's 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 above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes o