Regulatory Scientist I

Regulatory Scientist I

DIVISION OF REGULATORY

Make an Impact on Florida's Water Resources

The St. Johns River Water Management District is an environmental agency whose work is focused on ensuring a long-term supply of drinking water, and to protect and restore the health of water bodies in the District’s 18 counties in northeast and east-central Florida.

Enjoy work-life balance in a professional culture with competitive pay and benefits. 

Professional work reviewing permit applications and/or enforcing rules and regulations pertaining to environmental protection

What You'll Do

• Reviews the environmental portion of applications for Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs), Sovereign Submerged Lands (SSL) authorizations, and exemption verifications. Responsibilities include performing wetland delineations and site inspections; applying the Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM); reviewing construction plans, mitigation plans, and environmental data; assessing sites using aerial photographs, vegetation, soils, and other environmental data; preparing technical staff reports and letters; meeting with consultants and applicants before and during the review process to help them develop and complete applications; coordinating project reviews with team members and the supervising regulatory scientist; documenting project actions and pertinent information in e-Reg; and keeping the supervisor informed on projects of heightened concern.
• Conducts compliance activities on Environmental Resource Permits. Responsibilities include conducting periodic site inspections during and upon completion of construction or implementation to monitor environmental conditions; evaluating compliance submittals and monitoring reports; evaluating the progress of wetland mitigation areas; responding to complaints and public information requests about rule violations and wetland impacts; facilitating resolution of non-compliance issues; performing permit determinations; writing technical reports and enforcement actions; reviewing legal documents and coordinating with legal staff; coordinating with compliance team members and supervisors; and documenting compliance actions and pertinent information in e-Reg.

Key Skills for Success

• Collaborative problem solving; project management; identification of plants, animals, and hydric soils; application of ERP and UMAM rules; wetland delineation in accordance with Chapter 62-340, F.A.C.; interpretation of aerial photographs; ability to read maps and engineering drawings; proficiency with ArcMap, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and basic computer software; technical report and letter writing; and effective communication.
• Complete assigned tasks on time; work independently; show initiative in coordinating and communicating with co-reviewers; communicate effectively and professionally with the public; conduct field work; manage projects; prepare technical reports; proactively facilitate problem solving; and coordinate and communicate with other agencies, departments, and programs in support of District rules and objectives.

What You'll Bring | Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology, ecology, botany, environmental science, or a closely related field of study.

Working Environment

General office environment with significant fieldwork required (typically 2-3 field days per week); ability to work outdoors in Florida throughout the year, sometimes in extreme conditions; the ability to work in natural areas with rugged terrain, heavy vegetation and wet or flooded conditions.

Location

Palatka

Licenses

Valid State of Florida Driver’s License.

Salary range: $51,084.80 - $63,856.00

Salary is based on qualifications and experience.

Why Join Us?

In addition to meaningful work and opportunities for professional growth, benefits include:

• Florida Retirement System
• Health and dental insurance
• Life and long-term disability insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid leave and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness program
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program

Your application will receive careful consideration. Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted to schedule an appointment.

The St. Johns River Water Management District participates in E-Verify. Certain service members, veterans, and qualifying spouses, and family members receive preference in employment and are encouraged to apply.

Closing Date 

November 18, 2026

Equal Employment Opportunity/Veterans’ Preference/Drug-Free and Tobacco-Free Workplace