Environmental Project Officer

We are looking for an Environmental Project Officer to join our team in the Contaminated Site Clean-up Bureau. The Project Officer provides agency assistance in project management for the investigation, evaluation, and cleanup of uncontrolled hazardous substance sites in Montana under the appropriate regulatory authority. The incumbent is to ensure protection of Montana's environment through application and knowledge of Montana's environmental laws and regulations. This position's primary job within the Cleanup, Protection and Redevelopment Section is overseeing the remediation and management of the Colstrip Coal Ash Ponds. The Department of Environmental Quality is engaged in an enforcement action against Talen Energy (formerly PPL Montana) over groundwater contamination caused by leaking ash ponds at the Colstrip Steam Electric Stations. Duties include review of technical reports, evaluating cleanup alternatives, remedy effectiveness, operation and maintenance reports, community and stakeholder communications and public meetings, and ensuring all aspects of the site are in line with the Administrative Order on Consent (AOC). This position also contributes to the management and cleanup efforts within the Hazardous Waste Brownfields Program. Duties include assisting with file reviews which provide a pathway to closure by researching funding options and cleanup requirements as well as managing grant funds and cleanup activities at Brownfield-funded sites. The Hazardous Substance Brownfields Program personnel work on both State Superfund and Brownfields Facilities ranging from multiple acre industrial facilities to lead-paint and asbestos contaminated historic structures. At the Department of Environmental Quality, our ultimate goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana.  Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality! To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter through the State of Montana Careers site.  In your cover letter, describe how your education, knowledge and skills have prepared you for this position. Interviews may be conducted via Zoom. The Environmental Project Officer position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression. This position requires a Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, environmental, or earth science or engineering. Two (2) years' experience in natural resource processes, remediation, mine waste reclamation or other related hazardous substance investigation and cleanup fields including a preference for experience with procurement and contracting. Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training is required within six months of employment. Participation in DEQ's Medical Surveillance Program and a respirator is recommended for this position. Alternative combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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