Job Description
Working Title: Environmental Specialist - Environmental Specialist 1 Job Class: Environmental Specialist 1 Agency: Pollution Control Agency - Job ID : 91076
- Location : Various
- Telework Eligible : Yes
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted : 12/30/2025
- Closing Date : 01/20/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
- Division/Unit : Land Permits & Permitting Dev.
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : Yes - Up to 20% of the time
- Salary Range: $25.67 - $37.26 / hourly; $53,598 - $77,798 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- FLSA Status : Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
*This position may be located at one of the MPCA office locations: Duluth, Brainerd, St. Paul, Rochester, Detroit Lakes, Marshall or Mankato.
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 posting will be used to fill two vacancies.
The incumbent for this position will work closely with staff in the Safer and Sustainable Products Unit to identify and respond to noncompliance related to mercury in consumer products, with a specific focus on cosmetics and skin care products. The position will focus approximately 25% on education and outreach and 75% on compliance and enforcement. The incumbent will conduct investigations, review relevant lab testing results and data, coordinate responses, and recommend enforcement actions. They will develop educational materials in conjunction with other program and communications staff, and support education and outreach efforts to retailers and consumers on the dangers of using mercury-containing products.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications One year 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.)
Ability to manage multiple projects.
Ability to gain understanding of the environmental regulatory 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 OTP 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 require employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications Ability to understand complex industry processes and rules/regulations.
Ability to effectively communicate scientific information to a general audience using plain language.
Interpersonal and customer service skills.
Strong written communication skills.
Work effectively with people representing a broad spectrum of positions in business, government, and environmental groups.
Effectively represent the MPCA before a variety of groups relative to social, economic, and environmental issues.
Demonstrated organizational and project management skills to effectively document and keep track of data and projects.
Students who have participated in one the state or agency's student leadership pipeline programs such as Right Track, Step Up, Urban Scholar, Star of the North or Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers are encouraged to apply.
Physical Requirements The position will be requested to conduct site visits and inspections. May involve transporting files, equipment, or safety gear in and out of vehicles and buildings.
Additional Requirements 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 DLR 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.
It is the policy of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
- Conflict of Interest Review
- Criminal History Check
- Education Verification
- Employment Reference / Records Check
- License / Certification Verification where applicable
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 Stephanie Grant at stephanie.grant@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 Stephanie Grant at stephanie.grant@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, Work at office, Local area, Remote work, Visa sponsorship, Work visa, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Shift work, Day shift,