Resource Conservationist - Field Inspector

Overview

The Lehigh County Conservation District is hiring for a full\-time Resource Conservationist – Field Inspector as a part of the District’s Water Quality Program. To support the District’s mission of protecting, conserving, and providing leadership for the sustainability of Lehigh County’s natural resources, the Resource Conservationist – Field Inspector will inspect open construction sites for compliance with the Clean Stream Laws, Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Control and Post Construction Stormwater Management Best Management Practices (BMPs). This position will be required to have or gain familiarity with traditional construction practices and all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Work may also include other duties related to the implementation of Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Control and the NPDES program. A position in this class reports directly to the Assistant District Manager.

Duties

• Inspects earth disturbance sites to verify that design installation, operational and maintenance components of erosion and sediment pollution control plans are being implemented
• Completes inspection reports detailing the results of field inspections including details of violation of the Chapter 102 regulations and/or the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law
• Receives and responds to complaints about damages, violations or deviation from regulations or policies; determines whether or not the situation is a violation of Chapter 102 regulations and if not, refers the complainant to the appropriate governmental agency. If a Chapter 102 violation does exist, performs a site inspection and works with landowner/developer to obtain compliance.
• Inspects earth disturbance sites to verify that design installation, operational and maintenance components of post construction stormwater management plans are being implemented
• Facilitates pre\-construction meetings for NPDES permitted sites
• Performs data entry, project tracking and record keeping as required
• Serves as the lead technical witness in enforcement actions conducted by the department and/or the conservation district.
• Prepares and performs all functions associated with Administrative Conferences related to non\-compliance
• Assists in conducting training seminars or workshops; prepares and presents informational and educational programs.
• Implements the Pennsylvania DEP’s Standard Operating Procedures for inspection and compliance procedures
• Attends training for technical subject matter
• May be assigned to work with other natural resource management programs as needed.
• Performs other related work as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Geography, or related
• 1\-2 years of related experience preferred but not required, including environmental regulatory compliance, soil erosion and sediment control, or stormwater management experience
• Any equivalent combination of acceptable training and experience which has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to complete job duties

Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Knowledge of soil and water conservation issues.
• Knowledge of environmental rules and regulations commonly found at the federal, state and local levels related to land and water conservation.
• Ability to coordinate plans, activities and operations with those of federal, state and local agencies.
• Ability to apply the principles and methods of the physical sciences to technical engineering problems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical literature, engineering plans and tables.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, while maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Ability to traverse difficult terrain and active construction sites.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of seasons and weather conditions.
• Maintain a valid PA driver’s license.
• Certification as a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) or similar is desired, or the ability to secure the certification within 1 year of hire

Compensation Overview

The District’s compensation plan includes medical, dental and life insurance policies, paid vacation, sick leave and employer contribution to retirement plans, as well as training and development programs.

Lehigh County Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or belief.

Starting salary range is $45,000 \- $55,000, dependent on salary and ability, and negotiable for candidates with additional relevant experience.

Please submit cover letter and salary requirments \- the LCCD will be accepting applications until June 8th, 2026, or until the position is filled.

Pay: $45,000\.00 \- $55,000\.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Allentown, PA 18104