Tag Archives: water quality

Environmental Program Coordinator for Clackamas County Water Environment Services, Oregon City, OR

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Requisition #: 107681. Salary Range: $87,447.48 – $110,710.34/year. Application closes: December 4, 2024.

JOB DETAILS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Clackamas Water Environment Services (WES) is searching for a skilled Environmental Program Coordinator to join our dedicated team in environmental program management. If you are selected for this position, you will be primarily responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing the development, implementation, and administration of environmental utilization programs with countywide impact. The Environmental Program Coordinator will develop, implement, and monitor environmental compliance, pollution prevention, toxics reduction, climate mitigation, and reuse programs. To be successful in this position, the ideal candidate will apply their considerable knowledge of relevant environmental protection laws and regulations, and support compliance with environmental requirements from federal and state authorities. This position regularly engages internal and external clients, stakeholders, and County staff, with responsibilities in coordination, planning, decision-making, and leading work.

Building a resilient clean water future where all people benefit and rivers thrive is our job. We do this by providing wastewater services, stormwater management, and environmental education. Our agency is committed to building a highly skilled collaborative team that values protecting public health, environmental stewardship, responsive customer service and teamwork. We’re on the search for experienced individuals who place a high value on the one water we all share.

Required Minimum Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*

  • A minimum of four (4) years of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position
  • At least one (1) year of experience planning, organizing, and coordinating the activities involved in environmental programs
  • Experience organizing and managing data and records 
  • Experience preparing clear, concise written reports and correspondence
  • Experience interacting with a variety of stakeholders, such as officials, industrial users, the public, and/or consultants
  • Experience providing excellent customer service and answering customer questions and/or complaints

Preferred Special Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical, biological, and/or ecological sciences or related field of study
  • At least one (1) year of lead work experience that may include leading projects, programs or initiatives, or leading the work of others, such as providing daily work direction and/or scheduling, assigning work, checking completed work, and training
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, and standard and custom databases
  • Experience writing compliance reports for state or other regulatory agencies
  • Demonstrated experience delivering educational programs, working with and interacting with the public
  • Ability to evaluate, analyze, and interpret data and clearly present information

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver’s license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the County’s driving policy.
  • Must pass a post-offer physical assessment; accommodation requests will be reviewed on an individual basis in compliance with State and Federal legislation.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Working knowledge of: Basic principles and practices of budgeting, purchasing and contract administration; basic techniques of supervision; sampling technique and equipment; principles of basic chemical reactions; basic sewage treatment plant operations and processes; storm and surface water management; principles and practices of pollution prevention and toxics control to protect water and biosolids quality; chemical and physical characteristics of urban stormwater, industrial wastewater, and biosolids; Federal, State and District environmental regulations applicable to environmental programs and NPDES permit requirements; industrial processes used by industry pretreatment systems; District pretreatment policies and procedures; soils, agricultural practices and geography of Clackamas County; environmental, traffic and safety laws, rules and regulations governing the operation of double and triple axel trucks, tanker trailers and the land application of biosolids; climate mitigation pertaining to assessing vulnerabilities and risks and developing reports, policies, or outreach to address vulnerabilities and risks; computer software applications used for GIS, mapping, compliance tracking and documenting and reporting on biosolids, reuse and energy program activities; principles of public outreach, engagement; construction principles and standards.

Skill to: Coordinate completion of projects within established budget and time guidelines; oversee, train and lead the work of assigned personnel; incorporate team participation in decision making; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; deal tactfully and effectively with the public, private businesses, industrial users, fellow employees, consultants, and federal, state and local officials; compose clear, concise written technical reports and correspondence; prepare and deliver presentations to the regulated community and the public; provide technical support and public education; develop and maintain agreements with partners, where applicable; compile and analyze data; use computer software programs associated with environmental management and compliance activities; read and interpret technical engineering documents and other GIS data; make mathematical calculations using fundamentals of algebra and geometry; conduct field investigations and inspections, exercising professionalism while implementing enforcement actions; think and act strategically in a regulatory environment.

TYPICAL TASKS

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Develops and recommends program policies, design, priorities, and operational and administrative procedures; plans, organizes and implements work activities to meet established program goals and objectives within an assigned area; prepares, schedules, coordinates and implements work plans with assigned professional and technical staff performing pretreatment, stormwater, and reuse program activities; analyzes and resolves work problems; coordinates operations with other staff and personnel within and outside of the district.
  2. Serves as internal coordinator on pollution prevention, industrial pretreatment, private stormwater, environmental monitoring, climate mitigation, and/or energy conservation projects; solicits and coordinates external technical support from financial or regulatory entities; researches, coordinates, and implements environmental compliance or energy projects; coordinates with management to facilitate NPDES testing and permitting activities related to storm and surface water management; participates in the development of goals and programs for WES, industrial pretreatment, source control, or reuse programs; maintains data and reports on program activities and performance results.
  3. Reviews, researches and reports on federal, state and local laws, regulations, rules, compliance orders and court decisions relating to environmental protection issues; recommends policy and procedure changes to comply with environmental regulations; reviews and evaluates impact of federal and state standards and requirements on department operations and activities; works with representatives of regulatory agencies to resolve technical and compliance issues and to explain program activities and objectives; ensures compliance with all applicable regulatory rules and regulations; serves as a liaison with regulatory agencies, staff engineers, and biologists, to develop and implement pollution reduction, environmental restoration, and reuse programs.
  4. Evaluates consultant proposals and qualifications and recommends selection; administers and oversees relevant consultant contracts; leads the preparation of reporting activities to WES, DEQ, other regulatory agencies, and cities with which the County has inter-jurisdictional contracts; coordinates program activities with other staff and outside agencies; participates in developing program partnerships with external agencies and organizations; assists in development of multi-agency agreements.
  5. Responds to and resolves agency concerns with environmental and safety practices; maintains records and assists in preparing regulatory compliance reports; responds to concerns from private businesses or landowners; schedules and coordinates facilities inspections on industrial facilities and may perform inspections of facilities as necessary; performs laboratory testing in field and preserves samples for further analysis; participate in audits conducted by regulatory agencies; leads the preparation of responses to audits and inspections from regulatory agencies; gathers and evaluates data for assigned projects; leads in the development of rule changes, enforcement procedures, and permit policies; works with County leadership to implement sustainable options.
  6. Maintains program and regulatory databases; leads the implementation of compliance oversight and environmental management systems; monitors and evaluates program effectiveness.
  7. Recommends applicable program budget items and priorities; monitors program expenses; assists in tracking and forecasting program expenditures.
  8. Leads the investigation and response into slug/unusual discharges, non-compliant biosolids quality, or non-compliant effluent quality; determines cause or pollutant causing biosolids or discharge quality concern; reviews industrial reports for regulatory compliance; maintains records regarding compliance reports and monitoring status; identifies industries in non-compliance with permit standards and local, state, or federal regulations; pursues appropriate action through civil or criminal enforcement processes; responds to calls concerning spills, illicit discharges, or biosolids application; records incident details into applicable databases; identifies, coordinates, and conducts follow-up activities, including monitoring and enforcement; initiates and lead staff in conducting enforcement actions under the direction of the Environmental Service Supervisor and legal counsel.
  9. Leads and coordinates the work of regular and temporary employees; provides daily work direction; plans, schedules, assigns and reviews work; trains and provides technical assistance to staff; provides input to management regarding work performance; participates in the hiring process; facilitates participation of team members in work activities; acts on behalf of the unit supervisor and/or performs special projects as directed.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Duties require physical labor, including walking, reaching, squatting, kneeling, bending, balancing, climbing, shoveling, fine motor control, and ability to lift up to 50 pounds, carry, and push/pull up to 70 pounds. Duties also involve exposure to bacteria, viruses and toxins in wastewater, chemicals, exhaust fumes and dust, loud noises, and vibration. Some duties involve exposure to adverse weather conditions and hazardous locations, such as streets, live sewers, confided underground areas and on elevated platforms.

WORK SCHEDULE

This position is included in the County’s alternate workweek program, working 40 hours during an alternating workweek of Monday through Thursday (9 hours per day) and every other Friday (8 hours), with every other Friday off. Specific hours of work will be discussed with the candidate selected for this position at the time an offer of employment is extended. This position is designated as on-site/in-person. It is expected that the selected candidate will perform duties at the specified on-site work location.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Clackamas Water Environment Services produces clean water and protects water quality for more than 190,000 people living and working in Clackamas County. We operate and maintain five resource recovery facilities, 23 pumping stations and hundreds of miles of pipes. 

Each year, we clean more than seven billion gallons of water which we recover and turn into natural energy and fertilizer. We also help reduce pollution in local rivers, streams, and wetlands caused by surface and stormwater runoff, the number one source of water pollution in Oregon.  

Learn more about Water Environment Services.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Clackamas County only accepts online applications.

Help With Your Application:

Application Process

Help with the Application

If you have any questions or issues you may contact the Department of Human Resources at 503-655-8459 or e-mail us. Our office hours are Monday – Thursday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time (closed on Fridays).

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Clackamas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the Department of Human Resources prior to the recruitment close date. You may request an accommodation during the online application process.

Domestic Well Safety Program Coordinator (Program Analyst 2), Portland, OR

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Requisition #: REQ-167535. Salary Range: $4,998 – $7,647/month. Application Closes: November 4th, 2024.

Job Description:

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Public Health Division (PHD), Center for Health Protection, Environmental Public Health (EPH) Section, Healthy Waters unit in Portland, Oregon has a fantastic career opportunity for a Domestic Well Safety Program Coordinator (Program Analyst 2) which identifies, assesses, and reports on threats to human health from exposure to environmental hazards.

This is a full-time, permanent, classified position which is represented by a union.

This recruitment may be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill current or future vacancies.

What will you do?
The Program Analyst 2 advises the people and communities of Oregon about potential risks where they live, work, learn and play. EPH works closely with local, state, and federal natural resource management, occupational safety, environmental and other agencies to understand risks to human health posed by changing conditions, policies, and practices.

The purpose of this position is to coordinate and conduct day-to-day functions of and special projects related to the Oregon Domestic Well Safety Program (DWSP).  The functions include program coordination and monitoring of domestic wells testing, treatment, and water provision activities.  It also includes tasks related to data management, reporting, creating and maintaining guidance documents, developing additional program resources (including external contracts) and following confidentiality guidelines and other state statutes in the provision of the work.  The role will also provide policy review and guidance, relationship management with internal and external state, local, and tribal government partners, as well as community-based organizations. This position is essential to the development and coordination of work related to the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area (LUBGWMA) – one of the Governor’s Office key priority areas, as well as other work throughout the state related to domestic wells.

What’s in it for you? The public health division is a team of passionate individuals working to promote health across the lifespan of individuals, families, and communities. We value and support unique perspectives using a trauma-informed approach and aim to reflect these values in our hiring practices, professional development, and workplace. We are committed to racial equity as a driving factor to improve health outcomes for all communities that experience inequities.

  • We offer exceptional medical, vision and dental benefit packages for you and your qualified family members with minimal out-of-pocket costs (member cost share is as low as 1% – 5%). Try this free virtual benefits counselor by clicking here: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/pebb/pages/alex.aspx 
  • Paid Leave Days:
    • 11 paid holidays each year.
    • 3 additional paid personal business days each year.
    • 8 hours of paid sick leave accrued each month.
    • 8 hours of vacation leave accrued each month with increases every 5 years.
  • Pension and Retirement plans. After six months of service, you may qualify for the Public Employee Retirement System (PERS). New employees may be enrolled in the Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP).
  • Student Loan Forgiveness; Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity. The PSLF program may forgive student loan balances after you’ve made the equivalent of 120 qualifying monthly payments. 
  • Optional benefits include short-term disability, long-term disability, deferred compensation savings program, and flexible spending accounts for health care and childcare expenses.
  • Continuous growth and development opportunities.
  • Click here to learn more and access a summary of State of Oregon benefits.

The Oregon Health Authority is committed to:

  • Eliminating health inequities in Oregon by 2030
  • Becoming an anti-racist organization
  • Developing and promoting culturally and linguistically appropriate programs, and
  • Developing and retaining a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workforce that represents the diversity, cultures, strengths, and values of the people of Oregon.

Minimum Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, or a degree related to the agency program that demonstrates the capacity for the knowledge and skills; and two years experience coordinating or administering a program; OR

Any combination of experience or education equivalent to five years of experience that typically supports the knowledge and skill requirements listed for the classification.

Desired Attributes:

  • Experience in project coordination which includes planning, organizing, directing, motivating, controlling, and decision-making.
  • Knowledge of budget processes, budget management, contractual agreements, and procurement procedures, including development and coordination of grant programs and/or review of grant applications.
  • Knowledge of natural resource and public health protection programs at the federal, state, and local government levels, with extra consideration for direct experience in water insecurity programs.
  • Experience establishing, developing, and maintaining cross-collaborative partnerships, especially with other state agencies, local public health authorities, tribal health clinics, and/or community-based organizations.
  • Experience with technical writing to create direct narratives and data reports. Experience communicating technical information to individuals and groups.
  • Experience developing scientifically accurate public health outreach and educational materials. Experience designing and maintaining websites.
  • Experience promoting a culturally competent and diverse work environment.
  • Special consideration will be given to applicants who are bilingual in English and Spanish.

Working Conditions:

This position may be conducted remotely with full access to the needed operating systems and technology. There are times that work will need to be conducted onsite. On site work will occur: 1) in a standard office environment with no unusual physical demands or exposures; 2) in the context of community and public meetings in meeting rooms. In- and out-of-state travel, requiring overnight stay(s) at the meeting location, may be required.

Directions to Apply:

Please fill out the online application and submit a resume and cover letter telling us about yourself and how your personal (lived), educational, and/or professional experience qualifies you for this position.

  • External Applicants: Click the “Apply” button and submit your application. Click this link for the External Candidate job aid, and view this video for additional information.
  • Current State of Oregon employees: Apply through your employee Workday account. View this job aid for assistance.

Resources:

Additional Information:

  • Visa Sponsorships: Oregon Health Authority (OHA) does not offer VISA sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.  OHA is an E-Verify employer and will use E-Verify to confirm that hires are authorized to work in the United States.
  • Pay Scale: Upon receiving a salary offer, we will conduct a pay equity assessment using the information provided in your application to determine your salary placement upon hire. To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, please make certain your application materials are up-to-date and thorough. Include relevant details such as your work history, education, volunteer work, lived experiences, and any other pertinent information related to the position you are applying for. Please visit the Pay Equity Project homepage to learn more.
  • Background Check: If you are offered employment, your offer will be contingent upon the positive outcome of an abuse check, criminal records check, and driving records check. The information will be shared with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Office of Human Resources (OHR). Any criminal or founded abuse history will be reviewed and could result in the withdrawal of the offer or termination of employment.
  • Veterans: If you are a veteran, you may receive veterans’ preference points. Click here for more information about veterans’ preference. If you checked that you are a veteran, you will receive a notice in your Workday inbox and will be required to provide your documents at that time. Veterans | Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs: 1-800-692-9666
  • This recruitment may be used to establish a list of qualified applicants to fill current or future vacancies.

Questions?

If you have questions or would like assistance, including an accommodation request under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact Juan McGruder, HR Analyst, at juan.a.mcgruder@oha.oregon.gov.

TTY users, please use the Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service: 1-800-735-2900. For technical support, please call toll-free 1-855-524-5627, for customer service assistance.

Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity, and Pay Equity:

The Oregon Health Authority is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information, or any other protected class under state or federal law. In addition, we do not discriminate, or screen applicants based on current or past compensation. To learn more about OHA’s mission, vision, and core values, click here.

The Oregon Health Authority is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer committed to workforce diversity and anti-racism.

Harmful Algal Bloom Water Quality Analyst (Natural Resource Specialist 3). Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Portland, OR (Hybrid work optional). Early-career position.

Posted on by

Posting #: REQ-155003. Salary Range: $4,993 – $7,641/month. Application Closing Date: July 22, 2024.

Job Description:

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality strives to build and sustain an inclusive environment that embraces and values diversity. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, veteran, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, or physical or mental disability. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may not meet every one of our listed preferred qualifications. Lived experience may count towards the preferred qualification. If you are excited about this position, we encourage you to apply. If you are unsure as to whether or not you meet the qualifications of this position, please contact us to discuss your application.

Are you passionate about preserving, enhancing, and protecting Oregon’s environment? If so, please consider a career with the State of Oregon at the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). At DEQ, employees have the opportunity to work with a dynamic and supportive team of mission-focused individuals tasked with maintaining, restoring, and enhancing the quality of Oregon’s air, land, and water. Here is a video about DEQ: https://youtu.be/E-Cs6M9AAlU

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has a full-time opportunity for a Harmful Algal Bloom Water Quality Analyst (Natural Resource Specialist 3) in Portland, Oregon.

Please consider joining an innovative team, and work to advance our agency’s mission to protect and improve Oregon’s environmental quality. The Water Quality Division has a critical role in achieving the Department’s mission by developing policy, implementation tools, and implementation priorities for improving and protecting the quality of water in Oregon’s waterways. The Water Quality Division works cooperatively with the Department’s three regional offices and the Laboratory to deliver programs and services that protect and enhance the quality of the waters of the state to protect public health and the environment.

The Watershed Management Section of the Water Quality Program oversees the development and maintenance of the water quality management plan; establishes total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), waste load allocations, and load allocations to be achieved by those streams and water bodies that do not currently meet water quality standards; coordinates on Nonpoint Source Program issues internal and external to DEQ; administers the 319 Grant Program; provides statewide coordination for drinking water source protection; and provides statewide coordination of water quality activities on the Columbia River.

Click here to view a map of all of the DEQ offices.

What you will do!

You will conduct technical analyses of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in Oregon, with a focus on freshwater systems. Your work will include assessments of the frequency, magnitude, and extent of HABs in Oregon’s water; determination of factors contributing to HABs across Oregon; and consultation to field and laboratory monitoring activities investigating water quality effects linked to HABs. You will provide water quality data analysis, water quality evaluation and assessment, and technical modeling of complex environmental data requiring subject matter expertise, statistical analysis, spatial analysis, modeling, and other technical expertise to characterize and evaluate HABs. You will provide expertise and assist senior level positions with project development, project planning, and monitoring plans to support basin assessment and development of management plans to address HABs in priority waterbodies. In addition, you will be responsible for coordination with the laboratory, regions, and other DEQ programs, and external communities and interested parties.

What’s in it for you!

The opportunity to work in a productive and creative environment where no two days are ever the same! We offer a competitive benefits package that offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for the employee and their qualified family members, as well as paid sick leave, vacation leave, personal leave, and 11 paid holidays a year. In addition, we offer membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and you have the opportunity to potentially receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). If you are passionate about Oregon’s environment, apply today!

This is a full-time, AFSCME represented position. This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies.

What are we looking for?

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in physical science, environmental science, natural resources, or a closely related field, AND 3 years of experience in a natural resource or environmental field (an equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable). At least one year of experience at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.

Candidates who are most competitive will also reflect the following:

  • Demonstrated understanding of environmental justice and the historical impacts for marginalized and underrepresented communities; ability to take personal responsibility for increasing their knowledge of environmental justice and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
  • Demonstrated experience analyzing, modeling, and evaluating algae, water quality, water quantity, waterbody and watershed characteristic, climate, land use and land cover, and other relevant data.
  • Experience analyzing and evaluating harmful algal blooms through the development and implementation of TMDLs.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using GIS, R, Python, or other relevant software for water quality analysis, modeling, and visual display.
  • Experience working with the laws, procedures, principles, and regulations governing Federal and State water quality programs and subprograms; knowledge of the trends, developments, and technological changes in the water quality field.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to provide clear, concise, and compelling communication of policy and technical information tailored to the needs of diverse audiences; skill in writing and presenting clear and concise reports that include qualitative and quantitative analyses, recommendations, and conclusions to diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated experience building and fostering relationships with a diverse group of partners including colleagues, interested parties, communities, organizations, and businesses.

Working Conditions:

DEQ believes in a diverse and inclusive work environment. All employees are expected to contribute to a work environment that collectively values and benefits from respecting its diversity and promotes a culture of inclusiveness.

This position will be based out of DEQ’s Headquarters office in Portland; however, the successful candidate may be eligible for hybrid work. The logistics of hybrid work will need to be worked out with the Hiring Manager prior to your hire and may be changed at any time given specific job duties and business needs. DEQ will provide necessary hardware (laptop, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and cell phone) for an employee to successfully work from home. At DEQ sites, you will have access to a workspace, however, it may be shared with other employees.

There will be occasional travel by car for site visits, meetings, seminars, public hearings, conferences, and trainings, some of which may involve evening work, overnight stays, and/or weekend work. During site visits, there is the potential for exposure to contaminated soil and water, fumes, airborne contaminants, pollutants, and inclement weather. There is the potential for lifting of up to 25lbs.

How to Apply: (complete the application in full)

  • External Applicants Click on the “Apply” button and submit your application. Click this link for the External Candidate job aid, and view this video for additional information.
  • Internal Applicants (current State of Oregon employees): Apply through your employee Workday account.  View this knowledge article for assistance.

Helpful Tips:

  • Allow yourself plenty of time to complete and submit the application.
  • Workday will timeout after 15 minutes of inactivity.
  • This posting closes at 11:59 PM on the close date listed.
  • Please save a copy of the job announcement for your reference, as it may not be available for you to view after the job posting closes.
  • Be sure to check both your email and Workday account for updates regarding this recruitment.
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  • Click here for Resources and a Job Support Page. 

Please Note: In addition to your related work experience and education, DEQ will use the desired attributes and minimum qualifications above, under the “What are we looking for?” section to determine whom to interview. Please make sure your attributes and minimum qualifications are clearly demonstrated in your application material.

Veterans Information:

DEQ provides veterans’ preference points to all eligible veterans. For more information on veterans’ preference, please visit Veterans Resources, or call the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at: 1-800-692-9666. For privacy reasons, please do not attach veterans’ preference documents when initially applying. You will be asked to submit those at a later time.

Pay Equity:

As an employer, the State of Oregon complies with HB 2005, the Pay Equity Bill. We do not discriminate on the basis of protected class in the payment of wages, and we do not screen applicants on the basis of their current or past compensation. Please visit http://www.oregon.gov/das/hr/pages/equity.aspx for more information. Please note: the salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95% (6% goes to PERS and .95% covers payroll taxes). Please review the Classification and Compensation page for more details.

Work Authorization:

DEQ does not offer visa sponsorships. On the first day of employment, all hires will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. In addition, hires will have three business days from their first day of employment to present documents that establish employment authorization and identity. DEQ is an E-Verify employer and will use E-Verify to confirm that hires are authorized to work in the United States.

Questions/Need Help?

If you have questions about the recruitment or need assistance to participate in the application process, please contact Maddy Ouye, Human Resources Analyst, at maddy.ouye@deq.oregon.gov or (503) 347-5759. TTY users: please use the Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service at 1-800-735-2900.

Healthy Waters Natural Resource Specialist [Natural Resource Specialist 4], Oregon Health Authority, Hybrid Work/Portland, OR

Posted on by

REQ-150936. Application Deadline: March 24, 2024.

Salary Range: $5,747 – $8,831 / month

Job Description:

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Public Health Division (PHD) is recruiting for a Healthy Waters Natural Resource Specialist to support the State of Oregon’s Healthy Waters unit as the program’s lead technical resource on water-related health hazards. The primary purpose of this position is to evaluate and report on human health risks from exposure to environmental contaminants including, but not limited to, those found in domestic well water, recreational waters (fresh and marine), as well as recycled/reused water and fish tissue. This position’s work supports OHA’s domestic well safety program, beach water quality advisories, fish consumption advisories, harmful algal bloom advisories, water plan reuse review, and other state programs related to waterborne health risks.

The work includes developing and maintaining surveillance systems to detect hazards to human health, using data to make determinations about public health interventions and other courses of action, preparing and presenting risk communication messages and public health advisories to potentially affected individuals and communities, representing OHA for media requests, and making recommendations to inter-agency advisory committees.

The Healthy Waters NRS4 also provides technical assistance and methodological expertise in collaboration with partner organizations regarding data collection on environmental hazards, environmental exposures to microbial pathogens or toxins, and health effects.

OHA values service excellence, leadership, integrity, health equity and partnership and has a strategic goal to end all health inequities by 2030.

The OHA mission is helping people and communities achieve optimum physical, mental, and social well-being through partnership, prevention and access to quality, affordable health care. OHA’s work is organized into three broad goals: Improve the lifelong health of all Oregonians, increase the quality, reliability, and availability of care for all Oregonians and lower or contain the cost of care so it is affordable to everyone.

This is a full-time, permanent position and is represented by a union, SEIU Human Services.
What you will do!

• Develop program strategy, review, and inform project work completed by other program staff for Oregon Beach Monitoring, Fish Consumption, Harmful Algae Blooms, and Domestic Well Safety Program.

• Prepare or review draft interagency MOUs and agreements.

• Advise management and other staff on scope and compliance for contracts supporting domestic well laboratory testing and treatment system installation.

• Provide and interpret water quality and environmental data reports for groundwater management, cyanobacteria and toxins, and fish contaminant levels.

• Provide support to toxicologist on fish consumption calculations and develop technical memos as necessary when fish consumption advisories are issued.

• Coordinate technical aspects of program protocols and public health advisories including, but not limited to, fish consumption advisories and harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisories.

• Research literature for new data and information on HABs and emerging potential human and animal health risks from exposure.

• Participate in EPH section and center-wide activities to mutually further the mission and goals of the program, section and office; receive general calls from the public on a rotational basis (Tox Call); and performs other activities as assigned.

What’s in it for you?
The public health division is a team of passionate individuals working to promote health across the lifespan of individuals, families, and communities. We value and support unique perspectives using a trauma-informed approach and aim to reflect these values in our hiring practices, professional development, and workplace. We are committed to racial equity as a driving factor to improve health outcomes for all communities that experience inequities.

  • We offer exceptional medical, vision and dental benefits packages for you and your qualified family members, with very low monthly out-of-pocket costs. Try this free virtual benefits counselor by clicking here: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/pebb/pages/alex.aspx  
  • Paid Leave Days:
    • 11 paid holidays each year
    • 3 additional paid “Personal Business Days” each year
    • 8 hours of paid sick leave accumulated every month
    • Progressive vacation leave accrual with increases every 5 years
  • Pension and retirement programs
  • Optional benefits include short-term disability, long-term disability, deferred compensation savings program, and flexible spending accounts for health care and childcare expenses.
  • Click here to learn more about State of Oregon benefits.

Most of this work may be conducted remotely at an alternate worksite with full access to the needed operating systems and technology. However, there are many times that the work will need to be conducted at the primary work location listed in this announcement, the Portland State Office Building located at 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland, OR 97232. Work location can be changed at any time at the discretion of the hiring manager.
OHA values health equity, service excellence, integrity, leadership, partnership, innovation and transparency. OHA’s health equity definition is “Oregon will have established a health system that creates health equity when all people can reach their full potential and well-being and are not disadvantaged by their race, ethnicity, language, disability, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, social class, intersections among these communities or identities, or other socially determined circumstances.

Achieving health equity requires the ongoing collaboration of all regions and sectors of the state, including tribal governments to address: the equitable distribution or redistributing of resources and power; and recognizing, reconciling, and rectifying historical and contemporary injustices.” OHA’s 10-year goal is to eliminate health inequities. Click here, to learn more about OHA’s mission, vision and core values.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Minimum Qualifications

Three years of experience in water-related health hazards (specifically domestic wells, health-related hazards attributed to recreational use, HABs, and fish consumption, or any combination of the above). At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities;

AND
A Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Public Health, or similar degrees, or three additional years of related (pertinent) experience.
OR

A Master’s degree in Public Health with an environmental focus will substitute for up to one year of the required experience.
OR

A Doctorate degree in Environmental Public Health will substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

Desired Attributes

  • Experience in advancing health equity, addressing systemic health inequities and collaborating with diverse communities most harmed by social injustice and health inequities.
  • Knowledge of the following is required: Human health effects of chemicals, microbes and other pathogens which relate to the field of health assessment; principles and procedures of environmental health investigations; relevant state and federal environmental regulations. Skill in evaluating the impact on health of pollution sources and determining appropriate environmental health strategy is required.
  • Position requires knowledge and skill using numeric analytical techniques and software (e.g., spreadsheets, statistical packages, and/or GIS) to acquire, integrate, analyze and produce information relevant to policy decisions.
  • Knowledge of data collection, systems and use is necessary. Requires skill with the following applications: Word processing (e.g. Microsoft Word), presentation software (e.g. Microsoft Powerpoint), analytic applications (e.g. Microsoft Excel and/or statistical packages). Must be skilled in creating, maintaining, and using files and public records.
  • Person must have good communication skills (verbal, written, and interpersonal) to be used with a variety of audiences answering questions and explaining information or decisions. Must be skilled in writing investigative or narrative reports.
  • Preference given to individuals with specific knowledge of principles of biology, microbiology, chemistry and/or toxicology.
  • Rigorous adherence to the highest standards of confidentiality regarding patient information is required.

How to apply:

  • Complete the online application
  • Attach a Cover Letter, no more than 2 pages, specifically focused on your qualifications for this position as identified in the Desired Attributes section of this announcement.

Please ensure you’ve provided a thorough and updated application as it pertains to the position for which you are applying. Your application materials will be used to determine salary based on a pay equity assessment.  For further information, please visit the Pay Equity Project homepage.

Questions/Need Help?

If you need assistance to participate in the application process, including an accommodation request under the American with Disabilities Act contact: Juan McGruder at Voice: [503-302-0454] (TTY 711) or Email: Juan.A.McGruder@oha.oregon.gov. TTY users  may dial 711 or 1-800-735-2900. For Workday technical support dial 1-855-524-5627.

U.S. EPA Fellowship (ORISE): Identifying Drivers of Nutrients and Algal Blooms in Rivers, Streams, and Lakes, Corvallis, OR

Posted on by

Application Deadline: November 24, 2023, 12pm Pacific Time

URL to apply: https://www.zintellect.com/Opportunity/Details/EPA-ORD-CPHEA-PESD-2023-07

Research Project: The research participant will collaborate on projects within the Pacific Ecological Systems Division (PESD) that examine the relationships between watershed, climate and human drivers of nutrients and harmful algal blooms in freshwater ecosystems. Human activities can release nutrients to landscapes, watersheds and waterways in excess of the capacity to use and retain these nutrients, altering leaching, groundwater quality, drinking water sources and aquatic ecosystem composition and productivity, including harmful algal blooms. In particular, harmful algal blooms caused by cyanobacteria have the potential to produce toxins that are dangerous to people, pets, and wildlife through drinking water and recreational uses. As a result, there is increasing need to understand the drivers and predict where harmful algal blooms may occur.

Qualifications:

The qualified candidate should have received a master’s degree in one of the relevant fields, or be currently pursuing the degree with completion before the appointment start date. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date.  

The preferred skills listed below are intended to be a guide for the types of interests and skills candidates may have for this opportunity. These are structured as “or” statements to give examples of the different types of experiences that would indicate a given skill. The US EPA and ORISE program strive to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment. Candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply. The best candidate for the job may not have experience with all of the preferred qualifications listed. If you are excited about this opportunity, please apply. If you excited about this opportunity but unsure if you have the experience to be successful in this role, please contact us to discuss your application.

Primary preferred skills:

  • Experience interpreting any of the following types of data: Water chemistry, watershed science, nutrient cycling, landscape ecology, or geospatial analysis;
  • Experience with using a programming language (R, Python) for data analysis such as compiling data, conducting statistical analyses, or visualizing data in the form of graphs or maps;

Secondary preferred skills:

  • Experience with contributing to written products such as a thesis, peer-reviewed publication, or report;
  • Experience working as part of a group such as communicating among team-members, creating action items based on team goals, or and meeting team expectations.

Eligibility: U.S. Citizen Only. Pursuing a Master’s degree or have received a Master’s degree in last 60 months.

Mentor(s): The mentors for this project are Amalia Handler (handler.amalia@epa.gov) and Jana Compton (compton.jana@epa.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentors.

Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Fall 2023/Winter 2024.  All start dates are flexible and vary depending on numerous factors. Click here for detailed information about start dates.

Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year and may be renewed upon EPA recommendation and subject to availability of funding.

Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.

Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Click here for detailed information about full-time stipends.

EPA Security Clearance: Completion of a successful background investigation by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is required for an applicant to be on-boarded at EPA.

A complete application consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted. All transcripts must be in English or include an official English translation. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
  • A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
  • Two educational or professional recommendations. Click here for detailed information about recommendations.

All documents must be in English or include an official English translation.

ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and EPA. Participants do not become employees of EPA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.