Job Description
MassDEP's mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth's natural resources - air, water, and land - to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
MassDEP seeks applicants for the position of Environmental Analyst III within the Bureau of Water Resources (BWR), Drinking Water Program (DWP). The BWR DWP program is charged with regional implementation of the Massachusetts Drinking Water Regulations and the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act to ensure the protection of public health.
This position will be based in MassDEP's Central Regional Office (CERO), Worcester, MA and will assess compliance with the Drinking Water Regulations, conduct Sanitary Survey inspections of public water systems that have PFAS contamination, and compile documentation for compliance and enforcement activities. This position also provides technical assistance to the public and the regulated community. MassDEP's Central Regional Office serves 77 cities and towns situated in central Massachusetts.
Working at MassDEP is a great opportunity to do meaningful work that helps reduce the impacts of climate change and air pollution for all people of the Commonwealth now and for future generations. MassDEP personnel are remarkably talented, dedicated, enthusiastic, and supportive.
Duties for the position include:
A. Conduct inspections of public water systems and drinking water treatment and pumping facilities of moderate complexity for compliance with state and federal requirements, including conducting Sanitary Surveys/Comprehensive Compliance Evaluations.
B. Evaluate PWS during SS inspections for compliance with DWP permits, regulations, policy, guidelines, and new initiatives, specifically PFAS related treatment systems and regulatory compliance.
C. Accurately identify violations of laws, regulations, policies, guidelines when discovered at public water systems and recommend appropriate enforcement actions and corrective measures to return PWS to compliance.
D. Draft accurate written inspection reports within a timely manner.
E. Review and approve public water system corrective action plans for compliance with drinking water regulations.
F. Prepare Higher Level Enforcement documents for senior staff review and participate in RERC cases screenings as appropriate.
G. Provide technical assistance to Public Water System certified operators, municipal boards, commissions, and internal/external stakeholders as requested.
H. Assist in the development of training events, materials, and technical assistance documents, as assigned.
I. Assist the Water Quality Staff with the implementation of the PFAS regulations, policies, and guidance.
J. Assist in reviews and interpretation of water quality data.
K. Provide support to DWP in environmental and public health emergencies including providing technical assistance and preparation of public notices.
L. Attend and participate in drinking water program subcommittees and meetings and attend meetings as assigned.
M. Maintain MassDEP's database systems as appropriate utilizing Excel, Access and other Microsoft Tools.
N. Perform other duties as assigned.
Preferred qualifications at hire:
• Knowledge of the MA Drinking Water Regulations and guidelines.
• Knowledge of the general components of a public water system and proper operation.
• General knowledge of state environmental programs.
• Ability to interpret environmental regulations and identify noncompliance related issues.
• Ability to review water quality data and interpret results.
• Ability to review technical correspondence from public water system operators, engineers, etc. and compile results for draft responses.
• Experienced in interacting with the public and public officials.
• Knowledge and experience using computer programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, GIS)
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to organize, compile information and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to review technical correspondence and compile results of data.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and deal tactfully with others.
• Ability to meet objectives and established timelines.
• Ability to follow instructions, guidelines, and procedures.
• Strong computer and organizational skills.
• Strong data and records management skills and attention to detail.
• Time management skills.
A cover letter and resume expressing your interest in this position must be submitted as part of the application process. These documents must be specifically attached to the requisition for which you are applying.
Qualifications
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, technical or professional experience in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health, of which (B) at least two years must have been in a professional capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. An Associate's degree with a major in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology,. natural science, toxicology or public health may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience.
II. A Bachelor's degree with a major in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.
III. A Graduate degree with a major in the field of environmental science, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental health, meteorology, natural science, toxicology or public health may be substituted for a maximum of three years of the required (A) experience and one year of the required (B) experience.
Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
NOTE: Educational substitutions will only be permitted for a maximum of one year of the required (B) experience.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.