- Advertisement Closes: 2/19/2026 (7:00 PM EST)
- 26-00647: Environmental Scientist I
- Pay Grade: 13
- Salary: $3,551.88 – $4,910.60 Monthly
- Employment Type: EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 37.5 HR/WK
- Click here for more details on state employment.
- Hiring Agency: Energy & Environment Cabinet | Dept for Environmental Protection
- Location: 2751 Campbellsville Rd, Columbia, KY 42728 USA
The agency may authorize the selected candidate to telecommute. The agency may terminate or modify the telecommuting arrangement at any time.
Description
The mission of the Kentucky Energy & Environment Cabinet (EEC) is to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting our land, air, and water resources by utilizing our natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. We do this by helping families connect with nature and preserving the Commonwealth’s natural heritage; and by supporting innovative, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions that together bring economic benefit to the commonwealth.
If you are looking for a positive work environment and a career where you can make a difference in the environment we live in, then EEC is the cabinet for you. For more information on what our cabinet has to offer, check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWSuC43XqlHchYeQ66tP7tg and our Careers page https://eec.ky.gov/Pages/careers.aspx
By joining the Division of Water Field, Operations Branch, Columbia Regional Office as an Environmental Scientist I in Adair County, you will have the opportunity to perform entry-level inspections of public water supplies, wastewater facilities, oil and gas facilities, and non-point source pollution associated with agricultural, silvicultural, and stormwater activities to determine compliance with state and federal regulations. Conduct entry-level site surveys for construction of proposed wastewater treatment systems and agricultural waste facilities. Implement Division of Water Strategic and Operational Plan.
Also, conduct entry-level investigations into citizen complaints related to drinking water, wastewater, floodplain, groundwater, nonpoint source pollution, and pertinent environmental issues. Reports of the inspections and investigations will be entered into the agency database and issued to permittees. Holders of the Environmental Scientist I position will complete tasks such as:
- water sampling techniques
- basic understanding of drinking water and wastewater treatment
- Non-point source Best Management Practices evaluation for water quality protection
Desired candidates possess the following requisite skills or experience applicable to the position:
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- drinking water and, or, wastewater treatment experience
- Methodical record keeping and documentation
EEC participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. EEC will only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that EEC has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at 888-897-7781 or https://dhs.gov/e-verify
EEC provides opportunities for development and upward movement. There is room to grow your skill set as you build your career. Come join our team and make an impact in the future of Kentucky. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor’s degree in a natural, biological or physical science OR Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor’s degree including or supplemented by 20 semester hours in a natural, biological or physical science.
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE
Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: NONE
Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: Experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering or a related area will substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE
Working Conditions
Work is typically performed in an office setting. Incumbents in this class may perform work in the field with frequent travel on a statewide basis. An incumbent in this position may be subject to adverse weather conditions, exposure to snakes and insects, water-borne pathogens, broken glass, rusty metal in streams, and hazards common to operation of electro-fishing equipment, which require the following of safety procedures.Probationary PeriodThis job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 6 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Jason Stephens at Jason.Stephens@ky.gov or 502-782-9127.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D
