Emergency Responder - Job ID 81437

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 is eligible to receive up to a $5,000 hiring/recruiting incentive! This incentive will be paid in two increments, with the first payment made after successfully passing the probationary period. 

As an Environmental Specialist 4 this position leads the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's (MPCA) response to spill or environmental emergency situations; to operate within the Incident Command System (ICS) and sometimes command local, state and federal agencies in emergency situations; to oversee responsible party spill cleanups using the authority established under state and federal statutes; to contract with and oversee contractors and consulting firms in emergency cleanups and investigations, using state funds; to inspect and assess facilities and their spill prevention/preparedness compliance; and to provide outreach and training to public or private parties as appropriate to improve spill prevention and preparedness.

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must clearly demonstrate the following qualifications:

Two (2) years of advanced professional-level experience (e.g. Environmental Specialist 3 or equivalent level) in environmental cleanup. Environmental experience must include investigation and cleanup of contaminated sites, collecting environmental samples, interpretation of environmental sampling data, compliance/enforcement of environmental regulations, and cleanup remedies. 

Strong communication skills sufficient to clearly communicate technical concepts to a wide variety of audiences (e.g. citizens, responsible parties, government staff, media).

Advanced interpersonal skills to engage others to build strong working relationships and partnerships and to resolve potentially contentious, controversial, and complex environmental issues.

Ability to make sound decisions in a timely manner, sometimes with incomplete information, and under tight deadlines and pressure. 

Valid Class D Driver's License.

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

Bachelor’s degree in soil science, geology, hydrology, environmental science, chemistry or closely-related field.

Demonstrated experience utilizing and understanding the Incident Command System and its principles.

Knowledge of emergency preparedness, hazmat safety and response, and drinking water supplies.

Knowledge of federal and state laws relating to waste management; and chemical and oil handling and storage.

Experience hiring, overseeing, and directing the work of contractors, to include training others.

Experience managing and coordinating environmental emergency responses.

Experience partnering with local and tribal units of government on projects.

Physical Requirements

Ability to occasionally move or transport equipment up to 25 pounds. May require moving or transporting equipment and traversing rough and uneven terrain.

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 driver’s license record 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 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.