Environmental Specialist II (Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department)-City of Detroit

Job Description

Job Title: Environmental Specialist II (Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department)

Company: City of Detroit

Location: Detroit, MI

Pay: $57926 – 75246 per year

AI Pay Analysis: The annual salary range of $57,926 to $75,246 for the role of “Environmental Specialist II” in Detroit, MI, translates to an hourly rate of approximately $27.84 to $36.14. This pay range is generally competitive for environmental specialists in the region, aligning with industry standards, especially when considering the cost of living in Detroit. Similar roles in environmental science typically fall within this range, depending on experience and education. However, specific salaries can vary based on the organization, the complexity of the job, and individual qualifications, so researching comparable positions and considering benefits is also advisable for a complete evaluation.

Job description:

Under general supervision, assist in the design and implementation of procedures and programs aimed at facilitating environmental protection, conservation, and the sustainable use of the City’s natural resources in compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. This role involves coordinating activities related to these programs and overseeing the activities of assigned Environmental Specialist I team members.

Environmental Assessment and Response: Undertake environmental assessments and remedial activities for real property owned, operated, acquired, or leased by the City of Detroit, as well as for properties planned for acquisition for various operations, projects, or redevelopment. Responsibilities include oversight of contracts involving real property environmental assessments and coordination of procurement policies between the City and contractors.

Environmental Management Systems: Develop and implement environmental management systems that empower operational departments to achieve and exceed compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. This includes training on the identification, handling, treatment, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials and solid waste. The program aims to enhance processes toward the implementation of an ISO 14000 environmental management system.

Watershed Management: Manage a multimedia technical assistance program designed to improve the environmental quality of air and watersheds. Collaborate with other City departments to advance programs and policies for pollution prevention, conservation, and restoration, particularly focusing on reducing pollutants from stormwater runoff and addressing non-point source pollution. The program also requires procedures for reducing and auditing emissions from combustion sources in compliance with National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations.

Solid Waste Management: Administer a compliance program aligned with regulations governing the storage, transport, and disposal of solid waste. This includes enforcing City ordinances through inspections and audits, training enforcement officers, and facilitating outreach with businesses and the community, while coordinating efforts with various departments responsible for solid waste management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Other duties may be assigned as needed)

• Conduct investigations and analyses related to complex environmental assignments.
• Lead teams of technical professionals on intricate projects.
• Address organizational and jurisdictional challenges to devise efficient solutions for the redevelopment of contaminated sites, ensuring compliance with environmental laws.
• Perform quality assurance evaluations and reviews of deliverables from environmental consultants and contractors.
• Analyze new or revised laws and regulations for their impact on departmental objectives and policies.
• Conduct field investigations in response to complaints regarding suspected releases of hazardous substances and document findings.
• Evaluate environmental response strategies and recommend innovative alternatives for addressing contamination.
• Conduct site audits and follow-up inspections to ensure compliance.
• Evaluate proposals for redevelopment and collaborate with developers and relevant stakeholders to resolve environmental concerns.
• Present and instruct on processes and policies aimed at protecting and conserving the City’s natural resources.

Minimum Qualifications:
Required:

• Master’s degree in chemical, environmental, or civil engineering; or in chemical, physical, biological, ecological, or environmental science.
• Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in the specified fields along with three (3) years of progressive experience in one or more designated areas of specialization.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Preferred:

• Prior experience in field operations, project management, project design, and planning.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements:

• Valid State of Michigan Operator License.
• Employees in this role may be required to operate a motor vehicle on a reimbursed mileage basis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Familiarity with strategic planning, process improvement, and total quality management as they pertain to environmental responsibilities.
• Understanding of ecological systems and methodologies for analyzing and remediating hazardous substances.
• Knowledge of relevant state and federal regulatory frameworks for environmental protection.
• Proficiency in technical expertise related to assigned specializations, including effective public speaking and technical writing skills.
• Ability to devise practical solutions to complex issues and lead technical staff in addressing challenges.

Physical Requirements:

• The role typically requires sustained periods of sitting while operating standard office equipment including computers and telephones.
• The employee is expected to move about to perform tasks such as filing.
• Physical capability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 25 pounds is required.

Work Environment:

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel to meetings and work sites, necessitating exposure to varying weather conditions.
• May require frequent travel with limited notice, including air travel if necessary, as well as possible exposure to hazardous substances necessitating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Candidates must undergo a Criminal Background Investigation in accordance with position requirements.

Job Posting Date: Fri, 11 Jul 2025 05:04:53 GMT

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