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Environmental Specialist

Gardnerville,

Position Title

Environmental Specialist

Job Type

Full-Time

Classification

Non-Exempt

Grade

NE11 (21.07 - 31.6)

Department

Environmental

Supervisor

Position Summary

Under direct supervision the Environmental Specialist II is responsible for carrying out the objectives of the Washoe Tribe Environmental Protection Department. Conducts environmental surveys and assessments, supervises field activities, monitors condition of Tribal natural resources, works closely with contractors and other governmental agencies for protection of Tribal resources and provides assistance to other Tribal entities. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED and three years’ experience in the environmental field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Undergraduate degree in an environmental field preferred.

  • Must possess and maintain a valid California or Nevada driver’s license or capable of obtaining one within thirty-days (30) of employment.

  • Must be able to be insurable by the Tribe’s Driving Policy.

  • Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and background investigation.

  • Preference will be given to Qualified Native American Indians.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Writes reports, schedules work activities of program staff in accordance with Underground Storage Tank and Emergency Response programs, work plans and may include other related department grants.

  • Coordinates work with other government agencies.

  • Purchases supplies and equipment within program budget.

  • Manages program records.

  • Writes reports, collects data and analyzes data collected in the field.

  • Attends meetings and participates in inter-agency efforts to protect Tribal resources.

  • Conducts environmental inspections of activities on and off Tribal land.

  • Conducts field inventories and assessments of Tribal resources.

  • Monitors quantity and quality of water resources.

  • Enforces natural resource regulations and codes.

  • Works closely with consultants, contractors, and other government entities on environmental projects.

  • Develops and presents reports or analysis at meetings or conferences.

  • Attends inter-agency meetings to promote protection and restoration of Tribal resources.

  • Participates in Tribal-federal consultation, and works to meet the goals and objectives of the program and grants.

  • Drafts operational plans, experimental designs and sampling methods and develops sampling plans, procedures and forms for conducting studies.

  • Ensures compliance with operational plans and objectives and quality control data.

  • Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications
  • Knowledge of traditional form of government and tribal customs and traditions.

  • Knowledge of the functions and structure of the Washoe Tribe.

  • Knowledge of applicable federal, state, county, and local laws, regulations, and requirements.

  • Knowledge of the Washoe Tribe’s lands.

  • Knowledge of business English, proper spelling, grammar, punctuation, and basic arithmetic.

  • Knowledge of basic environmental terms.

  • Knowledge of basic scientific methods and techniques for biological research. Experience with water quality standards, bio-assessment, and riparian vegetation.

  • Knowledge of ESRI Arcview and Global Positioning System.

  • Knowledge of working in a Tribal environment.

  • Ability to perform physically demanding work and withstand inclement weather conditions and other uncomfortable environmental conditions.

  • Ability to read a compass and map details.

  • Ability to work cooperatively with various government officials and Tribal members.

  • Ability to lead others in the work and participate as a member of the work team.

  • Ability to communicate effectively in the English language, both verbally and in writing.

  • Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds and with co-workers at all levels.

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.

  • Skill in operating business computers and office machines, including in a Windows environment, specifically Word, Excel, Access, and presentation software (such as PowerPoint).

Physical Demands
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee occasionally is required to stand; and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment
  • Work is regularly performed both indoors in an office setting with a moderate noise level and outdoors where exposure to natural weather conditions and various dusts and mists may occur. Prolonged standing and walking may be on uneven surfaces or unstable ground. Situations where safety-toe shoes, safety goggles, gloves, protective face shields, or hardhats are needed may occur. Evening and/or weekend work may be required. Travel is required for training, meetings, conferences, presentations, and other events.