Environmental Specialist III - Sea Turtle Habitat Conservation Plan Manager
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_on139, Lucie Avenue, DeLand, Volusia County, Florida, 32720, United States
About the Team
The County of Volusia's Environmental Management Division is dedicated to the stewardship of our coastal resources. Located in Daytona Beach, Florida, the team works to balance community needs with the critical protection of sensitive ecosystems, specifically focusing on the preservation of sea turtle habitats and coastal dunes.
About the Role
As the Sea Turtle Habitat Conservation Plan Program Manager, you will serve as the operational lead for the County's compliance with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Incidental Take Permit and Habitat Conservation Plan regarding beach driving. This role is pivotal in ensuring that coastal construction projects adhere to the County Beach and Dunes ordinance and that the sea turtle lighting protection program is effectively managed under the County Sea Turtle Lighting ordinance.
You will manage a diverse portfolio of environmental projects, studies, and programs, overseeing everything from permitting and contracted activities to educational opportunities and volunteer coordination. The position requires a deep understanding of federal, state, and local regulations governing protected coastal species. You will supervise a team of two environmental specialists, a contract worker, and seasonal support staff, while acting as the primary liaison with state and federal officials.
Your day-to-day involves conducting field inspections to resolve compliance issues, reviewing and approving environmental permits, and providing expert testimony in code enforcement cases. You will also engage directly with the public through citizen contact, presentations at public hearings, and the organization of volunteer programs. This role demands a detail-oriented, self-motivated professional who can manage financial resources, compile data for annual reports, and respond to emergency situations, often requiring availability outside normal business hours and the ability to work in challenging outdoor environments.
Work location
Work model: On-site
139, Lucie Avenue, DeLand, Volusia County, Florida, 32720, United States
DeLand, Florida
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleManage environmental projects and programs for coastal habitat protection and enhancement
- check_circleSupervise and coordinate Habitat Conservation Plan program staff, contracts, and activities
- check_circleConduct field inspections to identify and resolve HCP compliance issues
- check_circleReview and approve environmental permits and special event permit conditions
- check_circleProvide expert testimony in code enforcement cases and present at public meetings
- check_circleAct as liaison with state and federal officials regarding environmental regulations
- check_circleOrganize and conduct volunteer programs and provide public assistance
- check_circleCompile HCP program information to generate annual reports
Requirements
- verifiedHigh school or GED and 8 years environmental management experience
- verifiedBachelor of Science in Biology, Environmental Science, Conservation, Zoology, Marine Biology or related field and 4 years environmental management experience
- verifiedValid Florida driver's license
- verified3 years experience with environmental ordinances, coastal construction, and sea turtle lighting plan reviews
- verified3 years direct supervision of staff or volunteers
Nice to Have
At least three (3) years of experience working with environmental ordinances including activities pertaining to coastal construction and sea turtle lighting plan reviews and compliance and enforcement activities, as well as three (3) years of direct supervision of staff or volunteers.
