Job Description
Working Title: Water Compliance & Enforcement Job Class: Environmental Specialist 1 Agency: Pollution Control Agency - Job ID : 89093
- Location : St. Paul
- Telework Eligible : Yes
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted : 09/24/2025
- Closing Date : 10/07/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
- Division/Unit : Industrial Division /Water Quality Compliance Unit
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : Yes (25%)
- Salary Range: $25.67 - $37.26 / hourly; $53,598 - $77,798 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
- FLSA Status : Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary This position is located within the Water Quality Compliance Unit within the Industrial Division at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This position performs compliance and enforcement duties for implementing the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and the State Disposal System (SDS) program in the Industrial Wastewater Program. The position involves the evaluation of the compliance status of assigned facilities with their NPDES/SDS permit and with applicable state statutes and rules including unpermitted activities, to determine and initiate appropriate enforcement action if applicable, to negotiate settlements as part of a team, to investigate and follow-up on water quality complaints, to act as a case manager for assigned enforcement cases, to review permits for enforceable conditions, and to participate special projects as assigned.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Two years of environmental protection experience OR
A Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field. (Students in their final semester of college should apply for the position and can start after their graduation date.) AND
Ability to manage multiple projects.
Ability to gain understanding of the environmental regulator process and state and federal rules.
Basic computer skills with proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and PowerPoint.
Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members.
Possess a valid Driver's license (see additional requirements).
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas including F-1 STEM OPT extensions. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications Experience in performing compliance inspections and elevated enforcement actions.
Knowledge of state and federal regulatory framework and their applicability to NPDES permittees.
Previous compliance and enforcement or related experience in a regulatory compliance position.
Experience performing industrial water or wastewater compliance and enforcement work.
Ability to understand complex industry processes and rules/regulations.
Work effectively with people representing a broad spectrum of positions in business, government, and environmental groups.
Physical Requirements Some infrequent lifting of sampling equipment and working out in the field in adverse weather conditions. Ability to conduct inspections at facilities which may involve climbing and/or stepping over obstacles.
Additional Requirements This position requires successful completion of the following:
A driver's license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver's License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver's license AND a satisfactory driver's license record check. Requires a Class D driver's license: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds. Indicate required background checks or screening requirements.
Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Patty Atchison at patty.atchison@state.mn.us
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Patty Atchison at patty.atchison@state.mn.us .
About Pollution Control Agency Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.
Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include: - Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals: - Training, classes, and professional development
- Tuition reimbursement
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: - A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Temporary work, Part time, Local area, Remote work, Visa sponsorship, Work visa, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Shift work, Day shift,