City of Tampa

Environmental Specialist I (#005501) N30

$31.26-$46.78 Hourly / $5,418.40-$8,108.53 Monthly / $65,020.80-$97,302.40 Yearly


Introduction

This is responsible professional work involving environmental coordination.

Nature Of Work

An employee in this class is responsible for performing tasks of more than average difficulty in support of various environmental planning, and other activities such as educational outreach, public speaking and program management. Employees must possess knowledge of various environmental rules and regulations, be capable of drawing sound conclusions based upon this knowledge, and be able to use communications tools to convey department’s goals/issues. Positions in this class are distinguished by their extensive responsibility for educational programs, public awareness, conservation projects, collecting, interpreting and analyzing data, or participating in the formulation of programs for environmental education and legislation compliance. Most work is performed under general supervision; however, field work and research activities are usually performed without proximity to a supervisor. Reasonable initiative and independent judgement are exercised in performing analytical tasks and formulating recommendations for conservation, communications and public education programs, implementation of research finding, or related projects. Work is reviewed through conferences, reports submitted, and results obtained.

Examples of Duties

Develops short and long range plans for water conservation programs; plans, develops, coordinates, evaluates, and implements communication strategies, public relations/education for the department and program; prepares brochures and other media; designs and coordinates drinking water week events and other special events.

Designs, develops and implements environmental education curriculum.

Keeps informed of ordinances, codes, laws, statutes, modifications, court decisions, and other legislation that affects the operation in order to maintain compliance with same; participates in rule making process and workshop.

Meets with and provides guidance to advisory committees; works with school district representatives to develop an in-school conservation program for classroom and field instruction.

Collects, assimilates, and assists in the analysis and interpretation of project data and indicators regarding municipal conditions; collects, compiles, sorts, and categorizes information needed for ongoing research studies and special projects.

Assists public with water conservation projects such as efficiency audits, community based public speaking, and other outreach activities.

Investigates public compliance on environmental problems such as illegal dumping, hazardous waste sites, possible site contamination, and related sanitation hazards; addresses non-compliant environmental offenders.

Takes photographs and records environmental information relative to regulatory and departmental projects/activities.

Participates in developing, drafting, revising, and recommending program or project plans to address environmental problems and needs of the city; monitors and evaluates programs and/or projects progress; makes recommendations.

Develops and evaluates bids and RFPs; manages contracts and oversees contractor employee services.

Formulates and recommends procedures, policies, guidelines, alternatives, code revisions, and priorities for implementing City codes, regulations, plans, and projects.

Plans, develops, coordinates, and consults with others regarding program plans, promotional activities, and special events; answers requests for information, census data, etc. from the public, city, or other agencies; answers questions on the phone or in person to inform the public about city services and programs/projects.

Coordinates and/or assists in and/or conducts environmental site assessments; coordinates and/or monitors contamination assessments; responds to releases of regulated materials on city property or by city personnel or equipment.

Identifies and arranges and/or assists with arrangements for disposal of "special" wastes (hazardous, toxic, bio-medical, etc.); works in conjunction with other governmental agencies to complete special projects.

Utilizes computers to develop and prepare reports and correspondence, design and maintain website.

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Considerable knowledge of: environmental health and safety; environmental regulations including applicability, inspection, enforcement, and the manner in which they impact municipal ordinances.

Working knowledge of: current conservation methods and equipment.

Ability to: express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; keep records and prepare narrative and statistical reports; independently conduct research and analysis of data via collecting, assimilating, analyzing, and interpreting data and drawing sound conclusions; use tact and diplomacy at all times; use of personal computers and software; establish and maintain effective working relationships with business community, civic and public groups, other employees, representatives of various governmental and regulatory agencies, and the general public; lift 20 lbs. might be required.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, science, education or a related field; OR, an associate’s degree with some additional course work in the area of environmental regulation, physical, or environmental sciences or a related field and three (3) years of experience in environmental conservation, environmental education or investigation for environmental compliance.

Some positions might require a background in communications/public education.

Licenses or Certifications

Possess of a valid Florida driver’s license. State of Florida professional teaching certificate is desirable.

Comments

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.

CLASS: 005501; EST: 8/12/2013; REV: 1/26/2023;