Life Science Career Trainee

Job Requisition ID: 46571 
Closing Date: 05/29/2025
​Agency: Environmental Protection Agency
Class Title: LIFE SCIENCE CAREER TRAINEE - 23600 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4,412 monthly; Full Range $4,412 - $5,991 monthly.
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: RC062
Merit Comp Code: 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Posting Identification Number 46571

Life Sciences Career Trainee

(For informational purposes only: Targeted title- Environmental Protection Specialist I Req #46806)

***Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned, and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application. ***

Note: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency must verify and have proof of higher education and coursework (if applicable) for any degree earned before any offer can be extended.

*Answer all questions thoroughly-DO NOT STATE SEE RESUME*

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Bureau of Water (BOW), Watershed Management Section, Nonpoint Source Unit is seeking to hire a Life Sciences Career Trainee (Option E).   The ideal candidate will participate in the agency sponsored training program for a six to twelve months duration.  This trainee position receives working assignments designed to develop knowledge, understanding and practical skills consistent with various professional life sciences career discipline.  As a LSCT, you will receive controlled assignments in a broad range of departmental activities with increasing difficulty and responsibility.

The benefits of working at the EPA include a 37 ½ hour work week, a generous salary and benefits package (paid time off for vacation, sick or personal leave, holidays) pension and other retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and insurance eligibility on day one (medical, dental, vision, and life). We invite all qualified candidates to apply.

Essential Functions

• Receives training for a period of six to twelve months duration to gain knowledge in managing state and federal watershed management/water quality grant programs and projects for the Nonpoint Source Unit of the Watershed Management Section (WMS), Bureau of Water (BOW).
• Receives training to gain knowledge in assisting higher level staff in the delivery of technical assistance to watershed planning committees, local governments, agricultural organizations, and other organizations as appropriate regarding best management practices, watersheds and nonpoint and point source water quality issues.
• Receives training, observes, and assists higher level staff with the development, revision, and updates of WMS programs and program documents as related to watersheds, nonpoint and point source pollution, and their relationship to other state and federal water quality programs.
• Receives training, observes and assists higher level staff with the development and promotion of presentation and outreach materials (webpage content, brochures, factsheets, maps, etc.) relevant to the BOW WMS Programs.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in some field of the life sciences.
• This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title.

Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance)

• Prefers 8 hours of college level coursework in conservation, environmental science, forestry, limnology, public administration, urban studies and/or climate change.
• Prefers one (1) year of experience providing front-line client support to a diverse audience.
• Prefers ability to multi-task and apply adaptive management to daily routine.
• Prefers ability to review and evaluate comprehensive written reports.
• Prefers experience in conducting environmental outreach and information activities, including development and delivery of written and oral presentations.
• Prefers experience working with underserved communities and/or citizens, ability to empathize with audience and translate Agency program information to audience for better community service.
• Prefers ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with other employees and agency representatives.
• Prefers ability to utilize a personal computer with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and ArcGIS software

Conditions of Employment

• Requires a current and valid driver’s license.
• Requires the ability to travel.
• Requires ability to pass a name-based background check.

Work Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday
Work Location: 2520 West Iles Avenue Springfield, IL 62704
Agency Contact: Joe Mercier

Email: joseph.mercier@illinois.gov

Phone #: 217-785-2361

Posting Group: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics