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Job Description
CAREER DESCRIPTION
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES TECHNICIAN
SALARY INFORMATION
Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above, based on position requirements and successful candidate's qualifications, subject to appropriate authorization.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
This recruitment is being held to establish an open eligible list to fill current and future Environmental Resources Technician vacancies within OC Public Works. This recruitment may also be used to fill positions in similar and/or lower classifications throughout the County of Orange.
DEADLINE TO APPLY
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately, as the recruitment will close on
Monday, March 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM (PT)
OC ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
OC Environmental Resources is a service area within OC Public Works that manages the OC Watersheds and OC Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures programs, which protect public health and safety, promote environmental quality, certify consumer weights and measures, and sustain business competitiveness through education, regulation, and collaborative regional programs.
For more information on OC Watersheds, click here .
For more information on OC Public Works, click here .
For more information on the County of Orange, click here .
THE OPPORTUNITY
OC Public Works has exciting career opportunities for multiple Environmental Resources Technicians (ERT) in the OC Environmental Resources service area. As part of a skilled professional team, ERT positions perform a variety of intriguing and rewarding assignments designed to monitor, maintain, or improve the quality of environmental factors related to the County’s land and water resources.
Under direction, the ERT's job duties include, but are not limited to:- Performing a wide variety of environmental assignments related to the protection and enhancement of Orange County's streams, channels, bays, and coastal waters
- Implementing regulatory compliance programs in response to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements throughout Orange County
- Conducting specialized environmental studies
- Conducting field monitoring of local surface water quality and hydrology
- Assessing environmental data and preparing informational/scientific/technical/compliance reports for the public, executive management, elected officials, and regulatory oversight audiences
- Develop data visualization and statistical tools to support decision-making and compliance programs
- Assist with managing the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and associated monitoring data
- Assess weather and hydrological data to support flood warnings, emergency management, and information needs from other agencies and the public
- Assist with water quality laboratory operations, manage and interface with contract laboratories, support other monitoring programs and operations, and perform quality assurance/quality control activities
- Assisting with the management of specialized consultant contracts
- Preparing and delivering presentations in public and professional settings
- Conducting technical reviews of reports, permits, work plans, etc., prepared by others
- Contributing to OC Public Works' leadership role in the management of surface water quality in Orange County
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES
The ideal candidate must possess a Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in environmental science, biology, chemistry, environmental engineering, hydrologic science, ecology, geology, or a related science field. Environmental regulatory compliance experience with the NPDES municipal stormwater permits and surface water monitoring is highly desirable.
In addition, the most successful applicants will demonstrate professional competencies in the following areas:
Technical Knowledge | Experience- Knowledge of federal, State, and County laws, regulations, and policies governing surface water quality
- Knowledge of NPDES and TMDL compliance programs for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permits, specifically within the Santa Ana (Orange County MS4 Permit) and/or the San Diego Regions (Phase I Regional Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Program).
- Knowledge and the ability to operate and maintain data management systems, such as, but not limited to, a LIMS
- Knowledge of environmental sampling methods and the ability to collect environmental samples
- Knowledge of basic chemical laboratory methods, safety, sample handling protocols, equipment, materials, facilities, and quality assurance/quality control principles
- Knowledge of basic scientific research and analysis
- Knowledge of statistical techniques and applications
- Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Knowledge of hydrological science and methods, including telemetry systems
- Ability to traverse uneven terrain to conduct fieldwork
- Knowledge of web-based applications, databases, and the MS Office suite
- Ability to analyze problems and adopt an effective course of action
- Demonstrate ability to research and identify information or data gaps, and to seek subject matter experts and/or supplemental resources to make informed decisions
- Demonstrate critical thinking, creative problem solving, and exercise appropriate judgment in answering questions and releasing information
- Understand how to balance competing priorities while meeting established deadlines
- Demonstrate ability to apply creative and effective analytical reasoning with a solution-oriented focus
- Ability to prepare informational, scientific, technical, and compliance reports
- Able to effectively communicate using oral and written communication
- Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships
- Able to effectively communicate clearly in public presentations to multiple audiences
- Capability to understand and follow oral and written technical instructions
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is required for all assignments.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Click here to view the complete list of minimum qualifications for the Environmental Resources Technician position.
PHYSICAL, MENTAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, and WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical and Mental Requirements
Positions in this class typically require: body mobility to stand, sit, walk, stoop, twist, bend, climb ladders, crawl, balance, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and perform other strenuous work. Incumbents must possess vision sufficient to read standard-size text, distinguish colors, and at distances over 20 feet. Requires the ability to speak and hear well enough to communicate clearly and understandably in person to individuals and groups; possesses manual dexterity sufficient to use hands, arms, and shoulders repetitively and without limitation to range and motion to operate a keyboard, tools, and specialized equipment. Incumbents may be required to drive work vehicles.
Environmental and Working Conditions
Positions are assigned to both office environments and outdoor settings. Work involves exposure to biohazardous materials and chemicals, viruses, biohazards, molds and allergens, toxic chemicals, gases, and other contagious environments, animals and wildlife, contagious diseases, confined spaces, and potential physical harm. Incumbents may be subjected to moving objects or vehicles, fumes, and intense noise levels. May be required to work under various weather conditions, including rainstorms, and walk in uneven, slippery, and sometimes dangerous terrains. Requires the use and wear of safety equipment, including safety glasses and footwear, protective clothing and gloves, sun and hearing protection, and hard hats.
May be required to work day, swing, and/or grave shifts, which include nights, weekends, and holidays. May be required to work overtime. RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Human Resource Services (HRS) will screen all applications to identify qualified applicants. After the screening, qualified applicants will be referred to the next step and notified of all further procedures applicable to their status in the competition.
Online Examination (Weighted 100%):
Candidates will be required to take a proctored online examination covering job-related multiple- choice questions. Only the most successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list.
Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. Candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure.
Eligible List
Once the assessment has been completed, HRS will establish an eligible list of candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies.
Veterans Employment Preference
The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings. Please click here to review the policy.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EMAIL NOTIFICATION
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.
NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.
Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com .
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
Questions? For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, contact Rose Nguyen at 714-667-9699 or by email at Rose.Nguyen@ocpw.ocgov.com .
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Non-Management Benefits
In addition to the County's standard suite of benefits, such as a variety of health plan options, annual leave and paid holidays--we also offer an excellent array of benefits such as a Health Care Reimbursement Account, 457 Defined Contribution Plan and Annual Education and Professional Reimbursement. Employees are provided a Retirement Plan through the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS).
Please go to the following link to find out more about Defined Benefit Pensions and OCERS Plan Types/Benefits.
http://www.ocers.org/active-member-information
Click here for information about benefits offered to County of Orange employees.
Closing Date/Time: 3/30/2026 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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County of Orange
Show moreDiscover a Fulfilling Career at the County of Orange
With a population of over 3 million residents and 34 cities, Orange County is a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and strong economy. As the third-largest employer in the county, the County of Orange offers over 18,000 employees the opportunity to make a difference in their community and build a fulfilling career in public service.
As a County of Orange employee, you will have the chance to work in a variety of departments, each providing vital services to our community. From law enforcement and healthcare to public works and environmental protection, there is a wide range of career paths to explore. And with opportunities for advancement and professional growth, you can build a long and rewarding career with us.
As a top employer in the region, the County of Orange is committed to providing our employees with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, and outstanding healthcare coverage. We also offer opportunities for career development and training, ensuring that our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a new challenge, the County of Orange is a great place to work. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, a commitment to excellence, and opportunities for growth and advancement, we invite you to join our team and make a difference in your community.
Community Impact:
Working for the County of Orange means you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're providing critical services to residents, protecting the environment, or maintaining public safety, your work will make a difference in the lives of those around you.
Employee Wellness:
At the County of Orange, we prioritize our employees' well-being. We offer telecommuting options, generous health benefits, and wellness programs to promote work-life balance. We believe that by taking care of our employee’s health and well-being, we can help them excel in their careers while still enjoying their personal lives and taking care of their families.
Innovation:
The County of Orange is committed to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to service delivery. We encourage our employees to think creatively and find ways to improve our processes and systems. If you're someone who loves to problem-solve and think outside the box, you'll find a supportive and dynamic environment here.
Collaboration:
Collaboration is key to our success at the County of Orange. We value teamwork, communication, and mutual support, and we work together across departments and functions to achieve our goals. If you're someone who enjoys collaborating with others and building strong relationships, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive community here.
Equality:
At the County of Orange, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. Our Equity Policy reflects this commitment and guides our efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do.
Career Advancement:
The County of Orange is dedicated to helping our employees grow and advance in their careers. We offer a variety of training and development opportunities to help our employees reach their full potential. If you're looking for a place to build a long and fulfilling career, the County of Orange is an excellent choice.
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