ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN I

8272C3

Pay Grade: 15 16

DEFINITION OF WORK

Summary

This is beginning level technical field sampling work in an environmental program.

Work involves performing routine technical duties using pre-established methods and procedures; using basic sampling and measuring equipment; maintaining and cleaning equipment; and simple record keeping and data entry activities. Work may include assisting and/or receiving training from higher level technicians or professional staff in more complex technical procedures and equipment. The variety of work and degree of independence expand as incumbents complete training and demonstrate competency in the various phases of work activities pertaining to their position.

Standard Classification Factors

Supervision Received - LEVEL A : "Under immediate supervision..." "Immediate" means that the employee has little or no authority to select alternative work methods or to render independent judgments of any consequence. Each task is performed according to detailed instructions, written or oral. Assignments are usually for a short duration and when completed are usually checked for accuracy, adherence to instructions and established regulations, as well as the worker's rate of performance.

Difficulty - LEVEL A: Routine - Where the work is usually repetitive and the employee works from detailed instructions, the difficulty is usually limited to accuracy and speed.

Complexity - LEVEL B: Work is of a structured nature including duties that have several related steps. This level involves simple analysis of data, identification of easily distinguishable facts and recognition of differences in related situations. Workers at this level experience very limited independent judgment in determining methods or procedures to be used in making minor decisions. Work is normally controlled by frequent review and consultation with supervisors. When guidelines exist at this level, they are usually specific and aid in determining an approach to problems or situations. Workers at this level must be able to identify basic differences in situations to determine the actions which need to be taken.

Consequences of Actions and Decisions - LEVEL B: Consequences of actions or decisions at this level are minor as the work is normally reviewed regularly and errors are usually detected in following operations. Errors may be disruptive to fellow workers or may cause minor inefficiency. Costs due to errors are minimal.

Contacts - LEVEL A: The purpose of the contact is to obtain, clarify, give or screen established factual information, regardless of the type (i.e., easily understood or technical) within a well defined relationship. Normal communication skills are required.

Physical Demands - LEVEL C: The work requires moderate physical exertion.

Environmental Conditions - LEVEL C: The work environment involves hazards, risks or discomforts typical of working with or around machinery with exposed moving parts, irritant chemicals, heavy equipment or abusive or hostile clientele and patients. Exposure to disagreeable weather conditions and extreme levels of temperature, ventilation, lighting and sound are normal. Protective clothing or gear and specific safety standards or procedures may be required. Serious injury is possible.

Supervision/Leadership - LEVEL A: No supervisory or leadership responsibility; may explain work instructions or assist in training others.

Distinguishing Features

Differs from the Environmental Technician II class which requires more independent performance of duties, and limited lead worker responsibilities.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

Cleans, services, and assembles materials and equipment, including maps, samplers, meters, gauges, and bridge markers, for environmental surveys. Marks bridge locations and sets discharge gauges for recording.

Assists in the review of reports, plans, or specifications for compliance with department guidelines and regulations.

Enters and maintains environmental data in computer system for access by a supervisor in program analysis or report preparation.

Participates in environmental sampling projects; utilizes sampling equipment according to established procedures under the direction of a supervisor.

Assists in the calibration and operation of monitoring devices used to evaluate air and water quality at various types of facilities and locations.

Assists in the collection and compilation of data from questionnaires, engineering and inspection reports, and other source materials concerning the adequacy of environmental pollution control systems and operations.

Assists in the preparation of the correspondence, related illustrated materials, and technical reports that serve as the legal basis for validating compliance or noncompliance. Such materials are reviewed for accuracy by a supervisor.

Assists in biological, chemical, or physical analyses for air, groundwater, water, and soil surveys to determine compliance with federal or state regulations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge

*Knowledge of basic mathematics.

Knowledge of the method, techniques and practices appropriate to environmental programs.

Abilities

*Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.

*Ability to use and maintain the instruments, equipment and materials used in an environmental program.

*Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

*Necessary at Entry

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

None Required.

NC:   06/93
REV: 12/95
REV: 11/96
REV: 10/98
REV: 02/00
REV: 08/05
REV: 06/07
REV: 06/10