JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE: Sr. Environmental PlannerPAY GRADE:G205
UNION:               NON-UNION:     X EXEMPT:    X            NON-EXEMPT:   

Position Overview: The Senior Environmental Planner serves as an expert-level professional within the County Environmental Resources Department.  The role involves expertise in environmental planning, a strong knowledge of Florida ecosystems, and a collaborative approach to managing complex regulatory and conservation issues. This role demands both independent initiative and coordination with a variety of departments, agencies, and stakeholders to support sustainable land use and natural resource protection.

Key Responsibilities:

Environmental Review and Regulatory Compliance:

  • Enforce natural resource protection standards outlined in the County Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code.
  • Review and evaluate development proposals for compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Conduct various site inspections, including land clearing, listed species, and landscape inspections.

Planning and Program Support:

  • Assist in environmental planning and permitting efforts related to resource conservation and land development.
  • Support the protection and stewardship of existing natural systems through ongoing monitoring and reporting.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of programs and projects related to environmental sustainability.

Development Proposal Review:

  • Process comprehensive plan amendments and land development applications, including rezoning, conditional use, variance, and site plans.
  • Maintain and update county land development regulations and comprehensive plans.

Public Assistance and Interagency Coordination:

  • Provide guidance to the public and developers on environmental codes and permitting processes.
  • Coordinate with other County departments, state and regional agencies during project review and implementation.
  • Prepare and present findings and reports to staff, the public, and regulatory bodies.

Technical and Administrative Tasks:

  • Maintain accurate records and reports on inspections, permits, and environmental conditions.
  • Use GIS and other mapping tools to support site assessments and planning efforts.
  • Prepare technical documentation and contribute to performance evaluations and progress reports.

Qualifications:

Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively.

  • Graduation from an accredited four (4) year college or university in natural sciences, environmental studies, forestry, botany, biology, urban and regional planning or related field is required. Master’s degree is preferred. Relevant experience, training or technical certifications may substitute for preferred degree.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of professional experience in environmental planning, regulatory review, or natural resources management.
  • Preferred certifications or the ability to obtain: Certified Gopher Tortoise Agent, Professional Wetland Scientist, AICP, ISA Certified Arborist, or Certified Environmental Professional.
  • Proficient in GIS, Microsoft Office Suite, GPS and field data collection technologies.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, time-management, and technical writing skills.
  • Highly skilled ability to interpret regulations, conduct complex environmental reviews, and represent the organization professionally.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license and a good driving record.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The Sr. Environmental Planner position requires the ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods and manual dexterity to perform repetitive hand movements.  Good vision and hearing (with or without correction) are essential to the position to perform both office and field tasks.  Field activities require the ability to walk on uneven terrain, bend, stoop, kneel, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Driving is a major function to conduct site visits, and candidates must adhere to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment when necessary.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS: The Sr. Environmental Planner work in both office and field settings. While office work is performed in a climate-controlled environment with minimal hazards, fieldwork may involve exposure to extreme heat, humidity, inclement weather, allergens and rough or uneven terrain and other natural elements such as insects, wildlife, and dense vegetation. Planners may also encounter dust, noise, and airborne particles, and must follow safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety vests, and boots. Occasional travel, early mornings, or irregular hours may be required depending on project needs.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT & PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE): Employees are required to adhere to all safety protocols and utilize appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided to ensure a safe working environment. Specific requirements include:

  • Mandatory PPE: Employees must wear designated PPE, which may include safety goggles, gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, and respiratory masks, depending on the tasks performed.
  • Safety Training: All employees will receive training on the proper use and maintenance of safety equipment and PPE to minimize risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
  • Inspection and Maintenance: Employees are responsible for regularly inspecting their PPE for wear and tear, and reporting any damaged equipment to their supervisor for replacement.
  • Emergency Equipment: Familiarity with the location and use of emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and eyewash stations, is required.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:  

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.  While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES:

County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator.  During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

ADA STATEMENT:

A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

EEO STATEMENT:

St. Lucie County BOCC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Please apply with the link below:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/stluciecountyfl/jobs/5018443/sr-environmental-planner