Natural Resource Program Specialist 2 (Permanent) - Minerals Division, Dauphin C

If you have a deep-seated love for our local forests, consider joining the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources! We are currently seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Natural Resource Program Specialist 2. This role involves engaging in professional natural resource and land management activities that focus on the statewide development of oil, gas, and mineral resources, particularly emphasizing natural gas extraction on state forest lands. As a Natural Resources Specialist, you will be responsible for developing, coordinating, implementing, evaluating, and promoting comprehensive programs aimed at managing and conserving the valuable resources, uses, and ecological benefits of our state forests. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the stewardship of our natural environment. Do not miss your chance to apply today!

In this position, you will engage directly with designated operators to oversee the development of oil, gas, and mineral resources on both leased and severed state forest lands. Your responsibilities will include ensuring that all resource development activities comply with relevant agreements, guidelines, and the overarching mission of the Bureau. You will conduct thorough evaluations of proposed infrastructure projects to identify and mitigate any potential negative impacts on state forest resources, uses, and values.

Additionally, you will be tasked with drafting detailed preliminary and final approval letters for these projects, while also monitoring operator compliance with contractual obligations. Your role will involve assessing the integrity of existing oil and gas infrastructure, reporting any issues to your supervisor, and collaborating with forest district staff to plan and implement road use agreements, pipeline crossings, invasive plant management, and site rehabilitation efforts. Staying informed about the latest laws, regulations, and guidelines related to oil, gas, and mineral resource development will be crucial, as will your routine use of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's data systems to review regulatory actions and coordinate with DEP personnel. You will also research and interpret deeds and land titles, utilize Geographic Information Services for planning and mapping development proposals, and assist in the creation and maintenance of spatial data. Periodic field inspections of sites under active development will be part of your responsibilities, ensuring that all operations align with established standards and practices.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

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.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 5 days per pay period. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year of experience as a Natural Resource Program Specialist 1 (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Three years of professional experience in natural resource management or natural resource education; and a bachelor's degree in natural resource management, parks and recreation, education, biology, forestry, ecology, geosciences, environmental sciences, or a closely related field; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• This position requires the selected candidate to undergo and pass a Fingerprint and Name-Based Criminal History Check prior to employment.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.