Environmental Trainee - Water Quality Specialist
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Posted: January 14, 2026 (1 day ago)
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection
Location
Pennsylvania, 17120
Salary
$66,328 - $79,062
per year
Type
Full Time
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This entry-level job is a one-year training program in the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, where you'll learn to review engineering plans, inspect public water systems, and provide technical help to ensure safe drinking water.
It's perfect for someone passionate about environmental protection who wants hands-on experience in water quality and permitting while working in a supportive team.
You'll gain skills in everything from field inspections to assisting with loans for water improvements, helping protect communities and ecosystems.

As an Environmental Engineering Trainee, you will will participate in a one-year formal and on-the-job training program to learn the duties of an Environmental Engineering Specialist.
This position conducts assignments for the Safe Drinking Water (SDW) Program within the Northwest Regional Office.
Here, you will learn how to review and analyze technical engineering information surrounding the activities of the Safe Drinking Water and Water Allocation Programs.
You will assist in conducting field inspection duties for new or modified public water supplies requiring a permit from the department, in addition to assisting in the review of construction permit applications, permit transfers, and engineering plans and specifications associated with public water supplies for conformance to engineering principles and regulations.
You will learn how to provide technical assistance and engineering consultation during field inspections and provide technical input in resolving problems with water plant operations during emergencies.
Additional skills which will be acquired involve providing training to field sanitarians on technical subjects such as corrosion control, cross-connections, taste and odor control, water chemistry, facility design, and permitting; learning how to serve as a witness during enforcement actions within the SDW Program; and assisting communities and water industry representatives in securing loans or grants for water system improvements through various state and federal aid programs.
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week.
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 Williamsport. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.
Additional details may be provided during the interview.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
Conditions of Employment:
Other Requirements:
How to Apply:
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).
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.
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