Environmental Engineer - Gs

USACE Organization

Great Lakes and Ohio River Division (LRD) - Chicago District

TARP - Direct-Hire Authority (DHA)

Permanent

Chicago, IL

INTRODUCTION:
Perform environmental engineering data collection, analyses and design in support of a wide variety of Civil Works Projects in the Chicago District’s AOR. These projects include critical Navigation (both inland and Great Lakes), Flood Risk Management and Ecosystem Restoration projects in phases from initial planning, through design, construction and operation. Ensure compliance with federal, state and local environmental regulations. Work closely with USEPA, IEPA, IDEM and WDNR.

Performs a broad range of duties related to site investigations, remediation, and the review and resolution of environmental contamination issues on civil, military, and other projects. Potential duties include the preparation of environmental sampling plans, cost estimates, and other documents and reports related to sample collection and data analysis; performance of field work and sample collection activities in diverse upland and water conditions;

operation of sampling instruments and equipment; and laboratory and logistical coordination. Samples include the analysis of a variety of physicochemical properties in different environmental media, such as soil, sediment, water, and groundwater. Provides engineering support to supervisors and coworkers. Analyzes requirements as needed, develops design and specifications or prepares statement‑of‑work and fee estimates for eventual award of contract to Environmental Service or Architectural‑Engineering (A‑E) firms.

Reviews contract and interagency site assessments, chemical data acquisition plans, environmental site remedial investigation reports, feasibility studies, records of decision, site management plans, health and safety plans and design documents for remedial design and construction. Investigates potential environmental remediation sites by performing physical on‑site inspections, gathering historical information on the site with respect to past uses and possible location of hazardous substances, interview appropriate individuals, and performing soil, sediment, and water sampling using techniques appropriate to the site and recommending appropriate action to comply with established standards.

Identifies process improvements, alternatives and pollution prevention opportunities and makes recommendations regarding planning, design, and construction activities. Analyzes known and potential problem areas on‑site inspections. Prepares detailed recommendations for solutions to such problems and/or alternate courses of action in accordance with environmental/engineering principles and techniques. Develops changes to plans or methods and provides recommendations for improvements to meet program objectives. Researches regulatory material, publications, precedents, input from other subject matter specialists to include environmental engineers / environmental protection specialists to determine probable impacts, possible alternatives and necessary mitigation requirements.

Oversees and adds technical input to the preparation of documentation, to include detailed process flow (input‑output) algorithms to account for material inputs, byproducts, waste generation and process product at both military and civilian organizations. Determines documentation requirements based on regulatory criteria, scope and magnitude of project, and impact on natural resources and environmental programs. Coordinates as necessary with other organizational elements, regulatory agencies and the HTRW center of expertise.

• Broad professional knowledge of, and skill in applying, a wide range of theories, concepts, principles, computer systems applications, and methodology of the science of environmental engineering relevant to the control or reduction of pollutants.
• Works under general supervision of the Chief, Environmental Engineering Section. Assignments are given in terms of overall objectives, priorities, and deadlines. The incumbent carries assignments through to completion…