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Environmental Protection Specialist Intern.

State of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO, United States


Department Information
Colorado Department of Natural Resources
This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application.

Division
Division of Reclamation, Mining & Safety (DRMS) is committed to balancing mineral resource production with the protection of public health, safety and the environment. The division implements and enforces the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Act and the Colorado Land Reclamation Act for various mining operations.

Job Summary
The position reviews mine plans and permits for scientific and technical adequacy and regulatory compliance, monitors and inspects mines to enforce regulatory compliance, and may testify at formal hearings of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board. An intern may be promoted to an entry‐level Epsilon I after completing a training plan.

Responsibilities

Review Applications for Mining Operations:

Analyze mine plans and permits for technical adequacy; evaluate regulatory compliance; recommend actions to senior staff; approve, deny, or conditionally approve applications with supervisory oversight.

Written and Verbal Communications:

Compile legally binding permit records, inspection reports, and correspondence with mine operators, landowners, public interest groups and government agencies; prepare presentation materials for enforcement hearings.

Evidence Collection, Interpretation and Presentation:

Collect and assemble evidence; prepare technical and defensible reports; present evidence and testify at board and public hearings.

Customer Interaction:

Confer with mine operators, public members, landowners, staff and interest groups on permitting, inspection and enforcement matters.

Field Inspections:

Inspect and monitor mine operations for compliance; investigate non‑compliance situations, sample and document as necessary; determine citations and violations.

Project Management:

Track project deadlines, update internal database, and ensure statutory timelines are met. Work is designed to train for a higher level in the class series.

Benefits

Medical and Dental plans

Strong, flexible retirement plans (PERA Defined Benefit/Contribution, pre‑tax 401 K and 457)

Paid life insurance

Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage

Employee Wellness programs

Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts

11 paid holidays plus generous vacation and sick leave

Flexible work schedule and remote‑work options

Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system

Minimum Qualifications

Four (4) years of professional work experience in geo‑technical engineering, mining engineering, geo‑chemistry, geology, hydrology, natural science, environmental science, physical science, natural resource management or a related field.

OR a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university in one of the above fields.

Preferred Qualifications

Current or former State experience relevant to this position.

Excellent written, oral and interpersonal skills.

Experience with field work.

Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.

Ability to work well with a diverse population.

Conditions of Employment

Colorado residency is required at the time of application.

Prior disciplinary termination or resignation from a former State employee must be disclosed; such circumstances typically disqualify applicants.

A current and valid driver’s license is required for operating a state vehicle; significant travel is anticipated.

Must be willing and able to exert up to 20 lbs of force to move objects.

DNR does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO / Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive work environments. Applicants of all backgrounds, identities and abilities are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities, in accordance with the ADA Amendments Act.

Salary
Salary range is posted for this position and is based on a salary analysis to comply with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. The range considers experience, education, certifications and state seniority.

Appeals and Review
Applicants who are eliminated from consideration may file a formal appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director, following the official appeal procedures.

Supplemental Information
All applications will be reviewed against the minimum qualifications. A structured application review by subject matter experts will be part of the hiring process. Resumes, cover letters and attachments are not considered in the initial review. Please answer all supplemental questions thoroughly.

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