Environmental Engineering Trainee

If you are passionate about protecting the environment and considering a career in environmental engineering, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has an exciting opportunity for you!  We are seeking a motivated individual to join our team as an Environmental Engineering Trainee, where you will have the chance to learn and develop your skills in a supportive environment.  This position not only offers a pathway to a rewarding career but also allows you to play a crucial role in our mission to safeguard the health and safety of Pennsylvania's residents and its natural ecosystems.  If you are ready to tackle new challenges and embrace the rewards that come with this essential position, we invite you to apply today and embark on a journey to make an impactful difference in your community!

As an Environmental Engineering Trainee, you will will participate in a one-year formal and on-the-job training program to learn the duties of an Environmental Engineering Specialist.  This position conducts assignments for the Safe Drinking Water (SDW) Program within the Northwest Regional Office.  Here, you will learn how to review and analyze technical engineering information surrounding the activities of the Safe Drinking Water and Water Allocation Programs.  You will assist in conducting field inspection duties for new or modified public water supplies requiring a permit from the department, in addition to assisting in the review of construction permit applications, permit transfers, and engineering plans and specifications associated with public water supplies for conformance to engineering principles and regulations.  You will learn how to provide technical assistance and engineering consultation during field inspections and provide technical input in resolving problems with water plant operations during emergencies.  

Additional skills which will be acquired involve providing training to field sanitarians on technical subjects such as corrosion control, cross-connections, taste and odor control, water chemistry, facility design, and permitting; learning how to serve as a witness during enforcement actions within the SDW Program; and assisting communities and water industry representatives in securing loans or grants for water system improvements through various state and federal aid programs.

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 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• 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 Williamsport.  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 $66,328.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email.  Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, or in any engineering field that includes or is supplemented by 9 credits in environmental engineering; or
• One year of experience in environmental engineering, and possession of a valid Engineer-in-Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

Conditions of Employment:

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Other Requirements:

• You must possess and maintain a REAL ID for this position.  Proof of possession will be needed at the time of a conditional offer of employment.
• You must meet the PA residency requirement.  For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency. 
• 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. 

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs.  To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.