Assistant Engineer (Environmental) / Engineer Trainee - NY HELPS

Overview The Region 7 Division of Environmental Remediation Spill Response Assistant Engineer will participate in all aspects of spill response and petroleum remediation within nine counties. Responsibilities Respond to petroleum spills, chemical spills and emergency incidents as required/directed both during the workday and after hours. Participate in rotational after‑hours standby status for spills. Conduct inspections of spill sites throughout the region, prepare detailed inspection reports, and update the spills database in a timely manner. Retain, oversee, and manage state‑hired spill contractors where appropriate for petroleum/HazMat spill cleanup and follow through to closure. Manage multiple short‑ and long‑term projects to ensure proper cleanup. Investigate releases by collecting data and evidence to identify source, cause, and potential responsible parties for spills. Address enforcement cases, including development of referrals, enforcement documents, and provide testimony at hearings and trials. Prepare reports. Conduct technical evaluations of investigation and remedial work plans, including engineering reports and plans. Review and comment on engineering practices and remedial actions adequacy pertaining to all applicable regulations including DER 10. Review and approve payment applications for state‑hired petroleum spill cleanup contractors in a prompt manner. Prepare Investigative Summary Reports (ISR) for cost recovery in a prompt, complete, and thorough manner. Assist the Comptroller’s and Attorney General’s offices with cost recovery as needed. Articulate the Department’s positions at public hearings, technical meetings; participate in outreach and events. Conduct sampling and be able to use various monitoring equipment. Conduct petroleum and chemical bulk storage inspections. 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, the position may be filled via a non‑competitive appointment; no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications for the title. At a future date (within one year of permanent appointment), employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non‑competitive employment status converted to competitive status. Eligibility Reassignment – currently in the title and an employee of DEC; Reinstatement Eligible – previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis; Transfer Eligible – one year of permanent competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer according to section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. Employees applying under section 55b/c must include a letter from Civil Service indicating approval. Minimum Qualifications for Appointment to Engineer Trainee, NS Bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering or engineering technology from specified disciplines. OR proof of passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND one year of full‑time qualifying engineering experience (sanitary, public health or environmental engineering). Engineers must complete a minimum of one year of successful performance as an Engineer Trainee and pass the FE exam. Advancement to PR‑50 after obtaining FE by end of first year; termination if FE not obtained by end of second year. Minimum Qualifications for Appointment to Assistant Engineer (Environmental), SG‑20 Proof of passing the NCEES FE exam AND a bachelor’s degree or higher from the specified disciplines. OR proof of NCEES FE exam AND one year of full‑time qualifying engineering experience (sanitary, public health or environmental engineering). Additional Comments The starting salary for the Assistant Engineer, SG‑20 level is $81,193, comprised of a base salary of $74,193 with a geographic pay differential of $7,000. The job rate for this position is $101,121, comprised of a base salary of $94,121 with a geographic pay differential of $7,000. Trainees receive the differential upon advancement to grade 20. Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet transportation needs. Use of personal protection equipment, including a respirator, will be required. Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain, work in remote areas, work in adverse weather conditions, travel, overtime, weekends, and holidays. Must be available for emergency response, after‑hours emergencies, and 24‑hour response on a rotational basis during normal business hours. Must successfully complete (or have completed) the 40‑hour OSHA 1910.120 training course and all other required training. Must complete an annual Health and Safety Program including medical monitoring, fit testing, and 40 (or 8) hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification. Telecommuting may be available up to 50 % of work schedule, will be discussed at interview. Benefits 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 The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. DEC encourages all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply. DEC does not use E‑Verify and cannot provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (e.g., H‑1B, self‑sponsorship, STEM OPT). #J-18808-Ljbffr