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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Environmental Review Specialist
FLSA: Standard/Non-Exempt EEO Category: (50) Para-Prof
Class Code: 13692 Salary Grade: IB9
Approved: July 21, 1998 Last Revised: September 11, 2017

Purpose:
 
Under limited supervision and using comprehensive knowledge with latitude for independent judgment, performs review and analysis of plans and specifications of proposed land developments, construction sites and businesses to ensure compliance with environmental/engineering codes, ordinances and regulations. Responsible for projects of diverse scope and complexity.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Reviews and analyzes plans/specifications by applying knowledge of general construction practices and methods, erosion/sedimentation control methods and strategies, water quality and drainage theory and arboricultural practices.
  2. Reviews land development projects for compliance with water quality, tree protection and landscape regulations.
  3. Coordinates meetings with contractors, engineers, owners, etc. to resolve issues of conflict and to assist in ensuring compliance of development projects with environmental regulations.
  4. Reviews and interprets policies, codes, regulations and ordinances.
  5. Performs analysis of the adequacy of storm water controls with technical criteria.
  6. Reviews engineering and environmental reports for accuracy and compliance with water quality regulations.
  7. Develops and implements code/rule changes.
  8. Provides testimony for enforcement cases.
  9. Provides technical assistance and education to City staff, City Management, citizens, community/special interest groups, developers, etc. on environmental/engineering code requirements, ordinances and regulations.
  10. Prepares and presents variances and revisions to City Code, Criteria, and Policies to Boards and Commissions.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
 
  • None 
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of environmental ordinances and regulations.
  • Knowledge of principles of specialized fields of science, such as soil science, forestry, agriculture, or Landscape Architecture to achieve conservation objectives
  • Knowledge of Federal, State and Local laws.
  • Knowledge of city practice, policy and procedures.
  • Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  • Skill in using computers and related software.
  • Skill in planning and organizing.
  • Skill in managing and resolving conflict.
  • Ability to use independent judgment in applying knowledge.
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other city employees and the public.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Environmental Science, Life Science, Natural Science or related field, plus two (2) years of relevant experience.
  • Master's degree may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience
  • One (1) additional year of experience may substitute for one (1) year of the required education with a maximum substitution of four (4) years
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
  • None.

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.