Environmental Specialist III Air Quality (Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department)-City of Detroit

Job Description

Job Title: Environmental Specialist III Air Quality (Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department)

Company: City of Detroit

Location: Detroit, MI

Pay: $57119 – 85561 per year

AI Pay Analysis: The hourly rate of $57,119 to $85,561 per year for an Environmental Specialist III focusing on air quality in Detroit, MI translates to an hourly wage range of approximately $27.48 to $41.13, assuming a full-time schedule of 2,080 hours annually. This range appears competitive when compared to industry standards for similar roles, particularly in regions with similar costs of living. According to recent data, Environmental Specialists in air quality roles typically earn between $25 to $45 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and specific job responsibilities. Therefore, this pay scale is in line with market expectations, making it a reasonable offering for this position within the Detroit area.

Job description:

Under general supervision, the Environmental Specialist III – Air Quality is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, directing, and coordinating sophisticated procedures and programs to enhance environmental protection, conservation, and the use of the City’s natural resources in alignment with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. This role encompasses one of the following areas of specialization:

Environmental Assessment and Response: The Specialist will oversee an environmental assessment, response, and remediation program for real property owned, operated, acquired, or leased by the City of Detroit, or property targeted for acquisition. Key responsibilities include managing contracts with environmental assessment consultants and ensuring compliance with procurement policies.

Environmental Management Systems: The Specialist will establish and oversee environmental management systems that facilitate operational departments in achieving and exceeding compliance with applicable environmental laws. These systems include training for the identification, handling, treatment, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials, solid waste, and waste oil, with the objective of process improvement leading to the implementation of an ISO 14000 environmental management system.

Watershed Management: This role involves providing technical assistance to improve air and watershed environmental quality. The Specialist will collaborate with other City departments to develop programs for mitigation, pollution prevention, conservation, restoration, and waste minimization aimed at reducing pollutants from stormwater runoff. Responsibilities also include monitoring and addressing non-point source pollution and ensuring compliance with National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).

Solid Waste Management: The Specialist will implement a compliance program in accordance with relevant laws governing the storage, transport, and disposal of solid waste. This includes enforcing City ordinances through inspections, training enforcement personnel, and coordinating outreach initiatives.

Examples of Duties:

• Manage projects requiring extensive planning, organization, and coordination across various technical areas.
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive program for contract procurement and contractor management, ensuring budgetary and financial efficiency for environmental consultant services.
• Assist in managing environmental grant funds.
• Participate in the planning and coordination of regional and local emergency response programs.
• Conduct investigations and analyses for complex environmental assignments.
• Direct technical professionals in collaborative project work.
• Resolve organizational and jurisdictional challenges to facilitate the reuse and redevelopment of contaminated sites per applicable regulations.
• Perform quality assurance evaluations of deliverables from environmental consultants and contractors.
• Analyze new or revised legislations for their impact on departmental goals and procedures.
• Conduct field investigations in response to hazardous substance release complaints and document findings.
• Identify and evaluate environmental response mechanisms, recommending innovative alternatives for contamination resolution.
• Conduct site audits and follow-up inspections to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Audit City agencies to ensure adherence to environmental laws and policies.
• Assess redevelopment proposals, collaborating with stakeholders to address environmental challenges.
• Present on processes and policies concerning the environmental protection and conservation of the City’s natural resources.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in chemical, environmental, or civil engineering; or in the fields of chemical, physical, biological, ecological, or environmental science.
• A minimum of three years of recent supervisory or management experience in a municipal or governmental context related to environmental management.
• Certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Geologist (PG) may substitute for educational requirements.

Equivalency:

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities will be assessed on an individual basis.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements:

• Valid State of Michigan Operator License.
• Possession and operation of a motor vehicle may be required, with mileage reimbursement.

Supplemental Information:

• The evaluation process includes a structured interview (70%) and an assessment of training, experience, and personal qualifications (30%), culminating in a total score of 100%. Additional points may be awarded for veteran status (0-15 points) and residency in Detroit (15 points).
• Knowledge of strategic planning, process improvement, ecological systems, and relevant regulatory frameworks is essential, alongside technical expertise in the environmental specialty area. Strong communication skills, both oral and written, and the ability to lead teams are critical for success.

Physical Demands:

• The position typically involves remaining stationary for extended durations while operating standard office equipment and requires mobility for file management. Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 25 pounds is necessary.

Work Environment:

• Work primarily occurs in an office setting, with occasional travel required for meetings and site visits, exposing employees to varying weather conditions. There may be a need for personal protective equipment when in potentially hazardous environments.

Candidates may be subjected to a Criminal Background Investigation based on position requirements. The above statements provide a general outline of the role, with essential duties varying by assignment.

Employment Benefits:
The City of Detroit offers a competitive employee benefits package promoting the well-being of our staff. Key benefits include:

Health:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Insurance:

• Optional life insurance for employees and their families, with the City covering a portion of premiums. Long-term disability insurance available through payroll deductions for eligible employees.

Paid Time Off:

• Sick leave, vacation, and holidays, along with several leave benefits.

Retirement Benefits:

• Membership in the City Employees Retirement System is automatic, leading to retirement allowances based on years of service and eligibility criteria.

Advancement Opportunities:
The City encourages employee growth and career advancement across all departments.

Join us in serving the citizens of the City of Detroit with a commitment to environmental excellence.

Job Posting Date: Sat, 18 Jan 2025 23:49:56 GMT

Apply now!