Environmental Planner jobs in Massachusetts

• City of Northampton, MA
• Northampton, MA FULL_TIME
• Location: Department of Public Works, Northampton, MA 01060
  Department: Department of Public Works
  Job Status: Full-Time
  Shift: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  Days Worked: Mon., Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri.

  
  

  
  

  
  
  

  DEFINITION

  This position is responsible for the oversight and management of activities related to the maintenance of the City’s watershed land, including implementation of the Watershed Resource Protection Plan, coordination of a forest management program and management of land acquisitions. This position provides environmental permitting, grant writing and vegetation management program support to the all Department of Public Works (DPW) Divisions.

  
  ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Updates and implements the City’s Watershed Resource Protection Plan (WRPP) to comply with Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recommendations; conducts policy research to successfully implement the WRPP; prepares for and participates in DEP watershed inspections.
  • Coordinates with municipalities in the watershed regarding WRPP implementation, land management projects and permits needed.
  • Coordinates watershed forestry program; schedules and manages timber harvests; manages logging or other vendor contracts; conducts public outreach related to watershed operations as needed.
  • Oversees land acquisitions for drinking water supply protection, including identifying properties, initiating surveys and timber appraisals and completing permitting; assists in facilitating sales.
  • Coordinates public access to watershed land; assesses requests for access; tracks compliance with watershed regulations and maintains logs in accordance with DEP requirements.
  • Provides guidance to the Water Division related to operations and maintenance of watershed land.
  • Assists with matters related to the City’s vegetation management program in all relevant locations; develops projects for capital improvements and assists in coordinating maintenance operations; engages consultant support as necessary.
  • Drafts grant proposals and administers awarded grants.
  • Prepares federal, state and local permit applications for construction or maintenance activities, including coordinating with regulators and attending site visits and hearings as necessary; delineates wetlands; performs field surveys.
  • Maintains the DPW utility easement database, including researching and acquiring plans and documentation.
  • Understands and follows all safety regulations.
  • Provides assistance to other divisions as directed.
  Performs similar or related work as required.
  

  
  
  

  MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in environmental science, planning or a related field; three to five years of experience in land management, including project management and permitting; equivalent combination of education and experience.

Valid driver’s license is required.

Knowledge: Knowledge of wetland regulations and permitting processes; knowledge of wetland ecology, forestry, plant identification, land use principles and drinking water regulations; knowledge of water treatment techniques; knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and GIS databases.

Abilities: Ability to work independently; ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously; ability to read and understand environmental resource and other maps; ability to use soil augers, tape measures and survey equipment.

Skills: Skilled at establishing harmonious working relationships with community groups and the general public; skilled at communicating effectively verbally, in writing, and through graphics; detail oriented; skilled at time management.