Program Specialists in Nebraska play a crucial role in upholding significant segments of the Clean Air Act and Title 129 – Air Quality Regulations.  The essential purpose of this job is to be a liaison between the department, the regulated community and their sub-contractors. Work will be performed under general supervision and after receiving the necessary training from qualified NDEE staff. The position entails conducting inspections of air emission sources and evaluating compliance with federal and state air quality regulations and permit conditions while observing/auditing tests in the field.  It also involves reviewing submitted air emission performance tests and relative accuracy test audits at state and federally regulated facilities across the State of Nebraska.  This position provides an avenue for boots-on-the-ground feedback for all parties during the actual air emission testing event. 

• Observe and audit on testing days to verify that tests procedures are being followed, and that the facility is operating properly.
• Review testing protocols in advance of the actual tests to ensure that proper procedures are being used to produce data.
• Review and analyze the subsequent test data to ensure that emissions are in compliance with permitted limits. 
• Write reports and memorandum documenting test audit and inspection findings. Enter pertinent information and maintain the state facility database (IIS)
• Conduct pre-test file reviews to gain familiarity with the facility processes, emission sources, and permit limits/criteria.
• Identify and address violations and concerns via letters, actions and memorandums.  May also involve tracking of enforcement referrals and violations from the beginning through to resolution.
• Participate, attend or present at environmental training events or workshops.  Also provide outreach to the public to aid in education of the masses.  Provide technical support from the air section for multi-media and EPA inspections plus assist local agencies, industries and general public regarding air quality issues.
• Maintain Method 9 Certification and conduct opacity observations to determine regulatory compliance (Title 129, Chapter 15).
• Must be able to effectively prioritize tasks and manage time, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in juggling multiple objectives.

Bachelor’s Degree in the physical sciences, natural sciences, environmental science, geology, biology, agronomy, civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, hydrology, community and regional planning, or a related field. Experience may substitute for education or a year-for-year basis.

Other: A resume with detailed work experience as it pertains to this position.  Valid driver’s license or the ability to provide independent transportation, overnight travel 5-10%. Selected candidate is subject to a physical exam and screening along with participation in the agency’s medical monitoring program.  Ability to lift 35 pounds, ability to climb a 20-foot ladder, ability to climb, bend and stoop, ability to walk on muddy icy and uneven terrains, ability to work in outdoor and indoor temperature extremes, ability to work in an industrial setting, ability to work outside normal business hours when needed.  Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance. 

Preferences:  Time Management skills; Critical Thinking skills; Data Management skills including data analysis, Microsoft Access experience; Organization; Excellent verbal communication skills; Interpersonal skills; Ability to adapt and change priorities quickly.

Knowledge of: Nebraska’s Air Quality Regulations (Title 129), and federal New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).

Skill in: communicating with individuals and groups with varying technical backgrounds to collect and relay information; listening to and understanding others; prioritizing workloads; using analytical judgment to make decisions; public speaking and providing presentations, technical review, collaboration, and policy development.

Ability to: learn and apply local, state and federal environmental laws, regulations and standards; learn, apply and uphold agency policies and procedures; establish and maintain effective working relationships with public and private officials and with the general public; read and interpret data to draw conclusions and prepare reports and technical papers; use computers and other tools for data storage and analysis; work in varying element and industrial settings, and, establish and maintain professional relationships with stakeholders.