Environmental Specialist - Job ID 82940

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

This position exists to provide quality assurance (QA) support and assist to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s ambient air monitoring program. This position works closely with the Air Assessment Section and other quality assurance staff to perform audits of air monitoring sites, data review and development of quality control documents. This position also supports QA process development, review and implementation within the Environmental Data Quality Unit.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental sciences, physical sciences or related science field AND one year of professional experience with duties involving environmental protection, laboratory data collection, air sample collection, data review, or quality assurance 

OR 

Three (3) years of professional experience with duties involving environmental protection, laboratory data collection, air sample collection, laboratory analysis, data review, or quality assurance. 

Good communication skills, interpersonal skills, collaboration skills, and planning/organization skills to work effectively with team members and external partners. 

Possess a valid Driver’s license (see additional requirements). 

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of: 

-Ambient air sampling techniques 

-Environmental monitoring programs and regulations 

-Laboratory quality control 

-Experience working with laboratory information management systems (LIMS). 

-Ability to coordinate review of quality assurance project plans (QAPPs).

Physical Requirements

This position conducts field work in challenging environments across Minnesota and on roof tops. Moderate to heavy physical exertion is necessary in a variety of outdoor weather and environmental conditions. This position drives work vehicles across the state. The incumbent must be able to carry field equipment weighing up to 30 pounds over rough terrain on land and up flights of stairs to rooftops.

Additional Requirements

A driver’s license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver’s license AND a satisfactory DLR check. Requires a Class D Driver's License: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds.

About Pollution Control Agency 

Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups, and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.