JOB POSTING IS EXPIRED
Environmental Specialist

Job Overview

Description

The Environmental Specialist supports public and environmental health by ensuring the safety and regulatory compliance of private water and septic systems. Key responsibilities include testing private well water, inspecting new or repaired septic systems and wells for compliance with Iowa Code, and issuing related permits to homeowners and contractors.

 

Job Duties

The following duties are primarily performed and are essential for this position.  Employees are expected to be able to perform each of these job duties satisfactorily and successfully to be qualified for the position.  Other duties may be required and assigned.

Water Quality Assurance & Private Well Grant Program

• Collect, test, and analyze private well water samples both in-house and through certified laboratories
• Perform routine water quality testing and support daily lab equipment quality control to ensure accurate results
• Submit samples to the State Hygienic Lab, interpret results, and communicate findings to homeowners
• Maintain accurate records by entering data into the Iowa Wells Information System and Iowa Grants portal
• Assist with annual grant applications, compliance documentation, and program reporting
• Submit public water sample results through the DNR Water Supply Portal

Private Septic System Compliance Oversight

• Administer private septic system compliance through enforcement, education, and technical assistance
• Review and process septic permit applications and site plans; issue permits upon compliance verification
• Conduct initial and routine site inspections during system installation
• Maintain detailed records, including geographic mapping when applicable
• Enter and manage data in the Iowa DNR Onsite Wastewater Tracking System

Private Well Compliance Oversight

• Review, issue, and manage well and septic permit applications for compliance
• Conduct initial and routine site inspections throughout installation.
• Ensure clean water sampling within 30 days of well construction and report to the Iowa Wells Information System (IWIS)
• Maintain complete records, including geographic mapping, and enter data into IWIS

Petition for Waiver Request Support

• Identify situations requiring waiver requests
• Guide homeowners and contractors on proper waiver request completion
• Present waiver petitions to the Board of Health with recommendations
• Submit final Board of Health decisions to the Iowa DNR

Environmental Hazard Report Management

• Receive, review, and evaluate environmental hazard reports from various sources
• Investigate reported hazards to assess risk and determine appropriate actions
• Coordinate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to address and mitigate hazards
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of hazard reports and investigation outcomes
• Prepare and submit detailed reports to regulatory bodies and management
• Provide guidance and recommendations for hazard prevention and control measures
• Monitor follow-up actions to ensure timely resolution of reported hazards

Time of Transfer Compliance Oversight

• Review Time of Transfer inspection reports submitted by certified inspectors.
• Determine system compliance and issue pass/fail determinations.
• Provide guidance to homeowners and contractors on required repairs or upgrades.
• Evaluate and process waiver or binding agreement requests in accordance with state regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections and determinations.
• Submit final decisions and documentation to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Miscellaneous

• Perform annual pumper truck inspections; submit documentation to DNR and process billing
• Assist with animal bite reports and case follow-up
• Stay current on environmental health regulations
• Any other duties as assigned or required by the Public Health Director or the Board of Health
• Demonstrate flexibility to adjust duties and provide coverage as needed to meet shifting priorities

 

Minimum Qualifications

Education and/or Experience Requirements:

• An associate’s degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or another applicable field.
• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree or higher may receive priority consideration.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Requirements:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Obtain and maintain required lab and water testing certifications per Iowa state regulations
• Attend required continuing education symposiums and trainings
• Complete 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually and submit electronic proof of completion by January 15 each year

 

Equal Opportunity

Dubuque County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Human Resources Department at (563) 589-4441.