Solid Waste Specialist Trainee

About the Role

Start your path in environmental protection with a role that supports cleaner, safer communities! The Solid Waste Specialist Trainee position with the Department of Environmental Protection provides structured learning and real-world training. You will take part in field work, inspections, and problem solving while learning key environmental laws. This opportunity is perfect for someone who enjoys meaningful work with room to advance.

Description of Work

This role introduces you to the field of solid waste regulation through structured training and guided field experience. It supports the protection of public health and the environment by teaching key inspection and compliance practices. As a Solid Waste Specialist Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Site Inspections: Conduct visits to waste handling facilities and transporters to observe operations and identify issues
• Report Preparation: Record findings from inspections, complete required documentation, and follow data entry procedures
• Complaint Investigation: Respond to waste related concerns from the public and gather information to support corrective action
• Field Surveys: Collect environmental data, review conditions, and prepare written summaries of findings
• Stakeholder Interaction: Communicate with facility operators, staff, and the public regarding environmental requirements
• Safety and Compliance: Follow safety procedures, recognize hazards, and apply environmental rules in daily tasks

Work Schedule and Additional Information

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Travel is required for site visits.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. You will be required to report 1 day in office per month. To telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If unable to telework, you may report to the headquarters office in Pittsburgh. Telework is subject to change.
• Salary: Most selected candidates new to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania employment will begin at the starting annual salary of $46,827.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Four years of technical experience in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental health, geology, biology, ecology, or a closely related field; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Special Requirements:

• All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed.
• Information to support your eligibility must be provided on the application.
• If claiming education, attach a copy of your college transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work.
• Generative AI tools may be used for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent information or assist during interviews is not permitted.

Veterans

• Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
• If you need accommodations due to a disability for an interview, please discuss your request with the interviewer in advance.