Sr. Environmental Specialist

The Sr. Environmental Specialist at the City of Fort Worth is responsible for conducting detailed inspections of Food Service Establishments, collecting wastewater samples for analysis, and managing accounts related to grease abatement. Additionally, this role involves leading investigations for any environmental complaints, conducting plan reviews for new commercial builds, and facilitating public outreach and education on environmental best practices.

To be considered for the Sr. Environmental Specialist position at the City of Fort Worth, candidates must have at least a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or a related field, along with three years of relevant experience in state or federally regulated environmental programs. A valid Texas driver’s license and registration or the ability to register with the National Registry of Environmental Professionals as a Registered Environmental Manager (REM) within two years of employment are also required.

While the main qualifications provide the foundation for the Sr. Environmental Specialist role at the City of Fort Worth, preferred skills include at least one year of experience with FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) programs. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities for public outreach and education are also essential to succeed in this position.

As a Sr. Environmental Specialist at the City of Fort Worth, you can look forward to a supportive benefits package that includes 11 paid holidays, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, generous paid time off, and a pension plan. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for professional development, ensuring you continue to grow in your career.

The work environment for a Sr. Environmental Specialist at the City of Fort Worth is dynamic and impactful. You’ll work as part of the Grease Abatement Team, interacting with various stakeholders, including local Food Service Establishments and community members. The City promotes values of exceptional customer service, diversity, and continuous improvement, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where employees are encouraged to contribute to environmental initiatives.

When discussing your experience with environmental inspections, be sure to highlight specific programs you've been involved in, such as grease abatement or wastewater management. Include details about the types of inspections you've conducted, what protocols you followed, and how your actions contributed to regulatory compliance and environmental protection.

In your response, explain the procedures you follow for waste sampling, including the proper tools and methods used to ensure sample integrity. Discuss any relevant laboratory practices for analysis and how you interpret the results to make informed decisions or recommendations regarding environmental compliance.

It’s essential to convey your ability to communicate effectively during challenging discussions. Highlight your approach of remaining calm, informed, and constructive, focusing on educating the business about regulations, potential impacts, and the importance of compliance for public health and safety.

Discuss your systematic approach to investigating complaints, including initial assessments, gathering evidence, interviewing key parties, and following up on findings. Emphasize your commitment to thoroughness and ensuring any resolution aligns with environmental regulations.

Explain that FOG programs are crucial for preventing grease build-up in sewer systems and maintaining the integrity of wastewater treatment facilities. Discuss how proactive management and community education regarding disposal practices can minimize sewer blockages and environmental harm.

Provide examples of outreach initiatives you've undertaken, be it workshops, presentations, or informational literature. Focus on how you tailored your messaging to the audience, the impact your outreach had on community behavior, and any feedback received.

Emphasize the collaborative nature of environmental work. Discuss how effective teamwork fosters diverse perspectives, drives innovative solutions, and ensures that varying expertise converges to achieve common goals within environmental management.

Discuss the importance of ongoing professional development and how you engage with resources such as regulatory agency updates, industry publications, webinars, or networking with other professionals to stay current on environmental regulations and best practices.

Share your methodology for plan reviews, including what key elements you assess for environmental compliance, your interaction with stakeholders, and how you ensure that the proposed projects meet local environmental standards and contribute positively to the community.

Describe how you would use key performance metrics, stakeholder feedback, and compliance outcomes to assess an environmental program's effectiveness. Discuss your analytical approach and willingness to adapt programs to improve environmental outcomes based on your evaluations.