Environmental Management Consultant- County Technical Assistance Service

Environmental Management Consultant- Jackson, TN

Description: The University of TN's County Technical Assistance service will be hiring an Environmental Management Consultant to serve in a West Tennessee position. The Environmental Management Consultant provides direct technical assistance to Tennessee county officials and staff on environmental regulations, compliance, and program implementation. The Environmental management consultant's position encompasses three broad functional areas:

* First, the consultant must act as a resource and advisor to local government clients seeking guidance on planning and implementation of environmental programs and regulations.
* Second, the consultant must function as an independent researcher, producing studies and technical documents that interpret environmental standards, regulations, and practices.
* Third, the consultant promotes relations and partnerships between the Institute's environmental program and other State environmental programs.

The environmental management consultant routinely provides hands-on technical assistance and guidance aimed at ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations. This position is relied upon to provide technical assistance on issues related to solid waste, water, air pollution, energy conservation and sustainability, and land use development and planning. The consultant provides expertise and in areas of environmental compliance for counties that do not have available expertise on staff. Additionally, the consultant will seek and prepare grant proposals for CTAS and for local governments seeking funding for environmental programs.

This position is additionally responsible for technical writing and technological solutions as needed in the broader environmental program. These additional responsibilities include may include data development, GIS mapping, and use of other technical tools such as survey instruments or drones.

Management may also assign the Environmental Management Consultant to perform special project and research work. The Environmental Management Consultant occasionally assists county government consultants in projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Direct technical assistance to clients:

Understanding and interpreting federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to environmental management and using this knowledge to directly assist County officials and staff with decision-making, planning and program implementation, within the scope of these laws and regulations.

Providing "hands on" technical assistance and guidance to ensure compliance with complex environmental laws and regulations along with implementation of cost-effective programs.

Exercising experience and judgment to develop solutions to environmental problems for local governments. Utilizing resources and contacts to determine the best course of action for local governments faced with implementation of environmental programs.

Serving as a liaison between Counties and the Tennessee Department of Environment Conservation.

Research, report preparation and technology solutions:

Producing independent and collaborative analytical studies related to the development and implementation of environmental programs. Presenting analysis and form of cost/benefits surveys of best practices, along with interpretation and updates on federal and state environmental laws and regulations.

Maintaining records and producing agency wide reports for CTAS's environmental program.

Developing and presenting technical information to representatives and multiple government agencies regarding purchases of hardware, software, and field equipment for use in Public Works and Environmental Management.

Using GIS and other technology tools to evaluate alternatives, make recommendations and improve technical findings.

Partnering and Collaborations

Maintain partnerships with Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation divisions and other relevant State Agencies. As needed, collaborate with development districts, Tennessee American Planning Association, Tennessee Geographic Information Council, Tennessee Solid Waste Directors Association and Solid Waste Association of North America. Leverage with partnering agencies to combine training and outreach services for local governments.

Training and publications

Provide Instruction and Training on "Environmental Regulations in Tennessee".

Provide Tennessee County Services Association (TCSA) sponsored training for elected officials.

Develop technical manuals on public works "best practices".

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, or a related field.

Preferred

Master's degree in environmental studies, or a related field.

Experience:

Minimum of five (5) years' experience in environmental management, such as solid waste management, energy management, air pollution and watershed management. Knowledge of Tennessee local government including budgetary and financial operations.

Preferred

Minimum of five (5) years' experience in environmental management, such as solid waste management, energy management, air pollution and watershed management with two (2) years of the five years in Tennessee local government environmental management. A minimum of two years of experience at a management level within environmental, solid waste, energy, air pollution, or watershed management.

Skills:

The environmental management consultant should have the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to provide technical assistance to elected officials and staff with questions related to environmental program compliance and implementation. Common requests for assistance in environmental management may include Request for Proposal (RFP) development, cost benefit analysis, rules and procedures for boards and environmental reporting, developing standard operating procedures for departments, environmental permitting, grant writing/administration, department budgeting and long-term planning. The Consultant could have this experience through academic programs related to biology, geography, planning, engineering, or public administration. These competencies could also be achieved by employment in public works, solid waste, local government planning, storm water programs, or other development services. The Consultant should have an ability to communicate clearly with a range of clients with a wide range of knowledge related to environmental programs. The consultant must be capable of working independently and collaborating with other members of the County Technical Assistance Service and Institute staff.

Location:

Jackson, TN

This position must be able to travel and be available to deploy for immediate travel to perform job duties. If a private vehicle is used for business related purposes, automobile liability insurance must be maintained.

Applicants are encouraged to review all position requirements prior to applying. Salary is based on a combination of professional experience and qualifications.

For best consideration, applicants must submit a resume with a minimum of three references. The position is open until filled.