Environmental Scientist II or III

Title: Environmental Scientist II OR III
Depending on qualifications, this position may be filled at either a level II or III Environmental Scientist.

Environmental Scientist II - (Salary range: $29.73 - $44.66/hr. or per DHRM rules) This position operates at the working level . Incumbents work under general supervision , demonstrating scientific knowledge and skills . They exercise independent judgment within delegated limits to effectively coordinate environmental regulatory or enforcement projects and facilities . These projects relate to federal or state environmental laws, rules, policies, and programs . Utilizing extensive science-related education and technical expertise , incumbents perform program operation tasks such as permitting, licensing, remediation, contract/grant management, compliance, and/or regulatory enforcement activities . They interpret federal and state environmental laws, rules, policies, and procedures , and communicate with federal, state, and local government officials, industry, the public, and special interest groups.
Environmental Scientist III - (salary range: $34.98 - $52.56 /hr. or per DHRM rules.) These are in addition to the qualifications for Environmental Scientist II:
This position operates at the working level . Working with minimal supervision , incumbents perform a wide range of tasks that require the application of broad and extensive scientific knowledge . They apply their expertise and knowledge to their scientific specialty for permitting and other regulatory and compliance enforcement activities. Incumbents may lead and coordinate large, multifaceted pollution-emitting or discharging projects and facilities .

Job Description

An Environmental Scientist acts as the Division of Oil, Gas, and Minings representative in the field . They work with oil and gas producers on a daily basis to ensure compliance with Division rules promoting petroleum exploration in a responsible manner. This includes analysis of wells before drilling, during drilling, testing, and post-production closure of oil and gas properties. The position provides a critical service to the oil and gas industry , working closely with operators as oil and gas resources are developed in Utah. Inspectors have a high level of control of their schedule , but occasionally work late hours or weekends.

This is an exciting opportunity to start or advance your career with the Utah Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining. This position is directly involved in the direction and development of the oil and gas industry in the state. The State of Utah offers great benefits and generous paid time off , allowing employees to plan activities, spend time with family and have a positive work-life balance.

For more information about the Department of Natural Resources or the Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining click the links below:

• Conduct on-site analysis of proposed oil and gas projects in the permit application process
• Inspect oil and gas wells, production facilities, and waste disposal facilities
• Respond to the general public, landowners, other regulatory agencies, and oil and gas operators' inquiries or comments
• Respond to incidents and spills
• Ensure proper plugging and reclamation of wells and facilities
• Prepare reports and document observations through the use of database applications, photographs, and GIS applications .
• Ensure compliance with applicable state law regarding oil and gas exploration, production, and waste stream management .
• Address non-compliance items including documentation, tracking, and resolution
• Testifies as a witness in Board hearings and court proceedings.
• Represent the Division at community meetings and other agency meetings.

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle in conditions associated with rural Utah dirt roads
• Skill in assessing workload and planning day-to-day schedule
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, and/or procedures
• Knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of the physical sciences
• Knowledge of scientific instruments and equipment
• Knowledge of oil and gas exploration and production equipment and operations
• Knowledge of oil and gas waste stream management
• Knowledge of Class II injection well evaluation, operation, and testing
• Knowledge of water and soil sampling procedures and types of analytical methods
• Skill in conducting field investigations and gathering field data
• Knowledge of basic geology and ecology of Utahs oil and gas production areas

Preferred/Additional Qualifications:

• Oil and gas industry experience in drilling, production, transportation, or waste management.
• Five or more years of downhole knowledge in the oil and gas industry.
• Prior experience complying with, or implementing environmental regulations .
• A degree in petroleum exploration, engineering, geology or natural science .
• The ability to use common computer programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) , Adobe, ESRI or other mapping applications, specialized geologic/hydrologic software, web browsers , etc.
• The ability to deal with people professionally
• Applicants with professional certification or training related to the oil and gas industry
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Working Conditions:

• Significant daily and some overnight travel is required
• Schedule may change based on industry activity
• Work involves risks that require specialized safety precautions and/or equipment (e.g., working around operating machines, contagious diseases, or hazardous chemicals).
• Work requires physical exertion . May require the ability to stand; walk over rough surfaces; bend, crouch, stoop, stretch, reach, and lift moderately heavy items (up to 50 lbs.) in a recurring manner and/or for long periods.
• Typical Work Schedule: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday

Requirements:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• A valid Driver's license