Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
TitleEnvironmental Program Specialist 1 / Trainee 1 / 2 (2 Positions) - NY HELPS
Occupational CategoryI.T. Engineering, Sciences
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $53764 to $85138 Annually
Duties Description The Environmental Program Specialist 1 (EPS 1) two postings in the division of Lands and Forests are within the Bureau of Forest Preserve and Conservation and the Bureau of Forest Resource Management. Under the general direction and supervision of a section head the EPS 1 will use knowledge of environmental science and environmental legislation, rules, and regulations to support the administrative and technical functions associated with the varied missions and goals of the Division. This includes working on forest timber sale programs, state and federal grant programs and statewide initiatives. In addition to the general duties described above, specific duties will include, but not be limited to the following:
The successful EPS1 in the Bureau of Forest Preserve and Conservation will serve as a Bond Act Land Acquisition Grant Associate within the Division of Lands and Forests. The Bureau of Forest Preserve and Conservation is responsible for managing New York State’s Forest Preserve lands, conservation easements, and land conservation. Under the technical and administrative supervision of the Real Estate Specialist 2, the successful candidate will contribute to the planning, development, and implementation of a new statewide land acquisition grant program that is funded by the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act (CWCAGJ). This role requires close coordination with the Bureau of Real Property and the Bureau of Division Direction's Contracts, Grants, and Procurement Unit to ensure effectual land transactions, compliance with procurement policies, and efficient grant administration. This position also requires collaboration with the Conservation Easement Stewardship program, other DEC divisions and offices, state and local agencies, environmental organizations, land trusts, and grant recipients to facilitate effective land conservation and acquisition projects in alignment with the CWCAGJ Bond Act, the New York State Open Space Conservation Plan, New York State’s 30x30 commitment to support the national goal of conserving 30% of United States lands and waters by 2030, and other related initiatives.
•Duties for the EPS1 in Bureau of Forest Preserve and Conservation include:
Land Acquisition Grant Program Development and Administration
Conservation Easement Drafting and Review
Environmental Policy and Program Development
Contract and Fiscal Administration
GIS proficiency and Data Management and Analysis
Public Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
The successful EPS1 in the Bureau of Forest Resource Management will be responsible for working with the Division of Lands and Forests and the Division of Fish & Wildlife staff to support State Forest and Wildlife Management Area Timber Sales and purchasing.
•Duties for the EPS1 in Bureau of Forest Resource Management include:
Timber Sale Contract Administration
Coordination with Division Contract Unit and Fiscal Management to coordinate Paint Purchase authority for regional tree marking and boundary line paint.
Assist the State Land Management Section with annual regional pesticide and restoration contract administration as needed.
Maintain Bureau’s Public and Internal websites with regards to timber sales announcements and awards.
Assume responsibilities as directed on special projects including but not limited to: Train and supervise seasonal and temporary staff in related tasks; Track funds, expenses, and contract payments; Mail “overdue” notices when applicable.
Essential Functions for EPS1’s in the Division of Lands and Forests:
•Must be able to solve problems and make decisions.
•Must possess strong communication skills to effectively communicate program findings and information to State and federal counterparts, the regulated community and public in a clear and professional manner.
•Must be able to supervise the work of subordinate employees, interact professionally with co-workers and supervisors, and work collaboratively in team settings.
•Must be able to prepare detailed, technically accurate, well written reports and publications.
•The ideal candidate will possess extensive computer and database management knowledge and technical skills. This includes the use of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint along with the knowledge to manage and navigate large data sets and generate output reports. Effective use and knowledge of the Microsoft Teams and SharePoint platforms.
Preferred Qualifications for EPS1 positions in the Division of Lands and Forests:
•Familiarity with NYS land conservation programs at local and statewide levels.
•Experience with NYS or Federally funded grants for land acquisition.
•Knowledge of environmental policies, conservation planning, land acquisition procedures, and land management practices.
•Proficiency in database management, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access).
•Experience with data management, analysis, prioritization, and quality control.
•Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
•Strong organizational, verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information and results
•Able to process and broaden working knowledge of mandatory programs, including an understanding of technical documents
•Capable of communicating and dealing effectively with the public, government, contractors and other outside entities.
•Ability to work independently and professionally
Minimum Qualifications This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).
For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.
At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in a NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified.
Qualifications for NYHELPS or 55b/c* appointment are :
TRAINEE 1: A bachelor's in accounting, agricultural engineering, agricultural science, agronomy, animal science, atmospheric science, aquatic science, bacteriology, biochemistry, bioengineering, biology, botany, business administration, chemical engineering, chemistry, civil engineering, civil engineering technology, climate change, coastal resources management, communications, computer engineering, computer science, construction engineering, conservation biology, cultural resources and historic preservation studies, data analysis, earth sciences, ecology, economics, ecosystem management, engineering technology, environmental biology, environmental education, environmental education and interpretation, environmental engineering, environmental health, environmental planning, environmental policy, environmental science, environmental studies, environmental toxicology, fisheries and wildlife sciences, forest engineering, forest resource management, forest science, forestry, genetics, geochemistry, geographic information systems, geography, geological engineering, geology, hydrology, industrial design, industrial engineering, landscape architecture, marine science, mathematics, manufacturing engineering technology, mechanical engineering technology, mechanical engineering, meteorology, microbiology, molecular biology, natural resources, natural resources conservation, natural resources management, natural resources planning, natural science, packaging science, physical science, physics, product design, public administration, public policy studies, sustainability, toxicology, urban forestry, urban planning, urban studies, water resource engineering, water resources management, wildlife management, wildlife science, or zoology.
TRAINEE 2: A bachelors as noted above and one year of professional qualifying experience.
EPS 1: A bachelor's as noted above and two years of qualifying experience.
Qualifying Experience: a position where you have responsibility for the following: development and implementation of program policies and procedures; preparing and interpreting rules and regulations; development, preparation, and management of procurement (solicitation) documents, contracts, and/or grants; providing non-engineering technical assistance and information to consultants, public officials, and facility managers; collecting data, reviewing alternatives, performing qualitative or quantitative policy analyses; writing technical or programmatic reports; developing, implementing, analyzing, and evaluating programs; developing and implementing expenditure plans, procuring external funding sources, collecting and forecasting the impact of funding and/or organizational change efforts; assisting with the development of environmental public information campaigns.
NOTE: a Juris Doctor, Master’s, or higher degree in a related field can substitute for one year of professional experience.
* If applying under the 55b/c, candidates must include with their resume or application, a copy of the letter from Civil Service which indicates approval for the 55b/c program.
Candidates may also be eligible via the following:
Reassignment - Currently in the title and an employee of DEC or Reinstatement Eligible - Previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis or held a title as indicated under the transfer eligible section on a permanent competitive basis.
Or
Transfer Eligible - One year of permanent competitive service at Salary Grade 11 or higher and either: Eligible for transfer under Section 70.4: Must meet the open competitive minimum qualifications below;
Or
Eligible for transfer under Section 70.1: Permanent competitive service as an Environmental Program Specialist 1 (including trainees), Program Aide, Administrative Specialist 1, Biologist1(Aquatic), (Ecology), (Marine), (Wildlife), Public Participation Specialist 1, Environmental Analyst 1 and Trainee 1 &2, Environmental Engineering Technician 2 & 3, Fish and Wildlife Technician 3, Legal Assistant 2, Mineral Resources Technician2,Pesticide Control Specialist 1 & 2, Public Health Specialist 2 Environmental, Sanitary Construction Inspector 2, Senior Engineering Research Editor.
Additional Comments Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
Travel may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.
Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.
We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including:
• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Shift & Geographic pay differentials
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
• And many more...
For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Email Address PostingResponses@dec.ny.gov
Address
Personnel, 10th Floor
Notes on ApplyingPlease email/mail your resume to the above address. Be sure to include Vacancy#25-186498 on your resume and also in the subject line of the email or it may not be accepted. If you are qualified based on your education, you must also include a copy of your college transcript.