About the Department

***This job opportunity is not in the classified service and is not covered by the West Virginia Division of Personnel merit system. ***

Public Information Specialist 2

West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection

Executive Office; Public Information Office; Youth Environmental Program

Office Location: 1159 Nick Rahall Greenway, Fayetteville, WV 25840

This position is classified exempt; therefore, does not fall under the classified service. Important note: selected candidate for this position will be subject to a background check.

We welcome you to join our team where we value work/life balance and diversity. We offer a great benefits package that includes 12 paid holidays, insurance and flexible benefits, ample annual and sick leave accrual, flexible work schedules, an Employee Assistance Program, Wellness Initiatives, an optional 457 defined contribution retirement savings plan and more. 

Click here for more information on benefits

If you want to be a part of this innovative team, apply today.

Employee will be assigned to the Executive Office, Public Information Office, Environmental Youth Program. Under general supervision, at the full performance level, will be responsible for the promotion, coordination and maintenance of various volunteer-based environmental programs administered through the Department of Environmental Protection in the following counties: Boone, Fayette, Greenbrier, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Monroe, Nicholas, Raleigh, Summers, Webster and Wyoming.

Duties include:

• Youth Environmental Program Duties:

  • Conduct meetings, presentations, outreach, and set up displays;
  • Schedule and coordinate visits with schools and youth organizations; 
  • Recruit and increase youth group participation; replace cancellations; 
  • Connect groups with resources and support participation in key events; 
  • Encourage and track project report submissions for award eligibility; 
  • Attend Youth Environmental Day, Junior Conservation Camp and Youth Environmental Conference, among other assigned events.

• REAP Adopt-A-Highway Duties:

  • Distribute materials and conduct volunteer presentations; 
  • Coordinate and participate in spring/fall cleanups and related events; 
  • Manage volunteer groups, ensure compliance, and maintain records; 
  • Recruit new groups and promote program participation. 

• REAP Recycling Duties:

  • Promote recycling programs, services, and grant opportunities; 
  • Conduct outreach, presentations, and participate in local events; 
  • Support schools and communities in developing or expanding recycling programs; 
  • Research and share recycling and grant information. 

• REAP Make It Shine Duties:

  • Promote statewide cleanup participation and distribute materials; 
  • Coordinate with volunteer groups and support project completion; 
  • Track participation and review cleanup reports; 
  • Communicate program guidelines and applicable regulations. 

• Additional Responsibilities:

  • Conduct environmental education and outreach activities; 
  • Attend trainings and at least one conference annually; 
  • Participate in at least two media events per year; 
  • Support related environmental initiatives and programs; 
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Ideal applicant expectations:

• Strong ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing;
• Public speaking experience preferred;
• Knowledge of technical writing and editing procedures;
• Experience working with children and volunteers preferred;
• Familiarity with environmental programs administered through DEP is desirable.

Notes:

• Regular attendance is an essential part of this position.
• Qualifying applicants will be required to complete an internet-based profile assessment to compare the applicant's thinking and reasoning skills, behavioral traits and the occupational interests against the traits determined to be important to the posted position. 
• The recommended candidate will be subject to a search of his or her Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) prior to being hired and annually thereafter. 
• All new employees that are involved with Specific DEP programs subject to the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMRCA) of 1977 must file prior to final appointment and annually thereafter, a Statement of Employment and Financial Interest (OSM 23). 

Click The APPLY Link To Apply Online. 

Minimum Qualifications

Training: Bachelors degree from a regionally accredited four year college or university with a major in communications, fine arts, journalism, graphic design, marketing, public relations, English or related field.