Surface Mine Conservation Inspector
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Surface Mine Conservation Inspector
Salary
$51,971.00 - $79,062.00 Annually
Location
Centre County, PA
Job Type
Civil Service Permanent Full-Time
Job Number
CSSC-2025-39163-71580
Department
Department of Environmental Protection
Division
EP DMO Moshannon Dstr Mng Off
Opening Date
12/29/2025
Closing Date
1/12/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Code
71580
Position Number
00085724
Union
AFSCME
Bargaining Unit
G1
Pay Group
ST06
Bureau / Division Code
00355320
Bureau / Division
District Mining Operations, Moshannon District Mining Office
Worksite Address
186 Enterprise Drive
City
Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania
Zip Code
16866
Contact Name
OA, CE DEP
Contact Email
RA-DEPJobs@pa.gov
Description
Benefits
Questions
THE POSITION
Are you eager to make a significant impact on Pennsylvania's environmental landscape? The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is actively seeking individuals with expertise in surface mining. In this vital role, you will ensure that surface mine operations adhere to essential regulations. Joining the DEP means embarking on a rewarding career where your skills will contribute to environmental conservation efforts. You will participate in initiatives that promote sustainable practices and protect natural resources, enabling you to help create a healthier environment for future generations. Seize this opportunity to embark on a fulfilling journey with the DEP.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
In this position, you will engage in investigative, enforcement, and technical advisory activities related to the inspection of various mining operations. This includes overseeing coal and industrial mineral surface mines, coal preparation facilities, coal refuse disposal sites, incidental coal extraction activities, exploration areas for coal and industrial minerals, as well as the surface facilities associated with deep mining operations for both coal and industrial minerals.
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description (https://careers.employment.pa.gov/pd/PD_NEOGOV.asp?p=00085724) .
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
Full-time employment
Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
Travel required
Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) full-time. 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 Phillipsburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
One year of experience as an Environmental Protection Trainee in the surface mining program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration);or
Three years of progressively responsible surface mining and conservation experience;or
Any equivalent combination of experience and training.
Other Requirements:
This particular position also requires possession of a valid PA non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent.
You must meet the PA residency requirement (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) and click on Residency.
You must be able to perform essential job functions.
How to Apply:
Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents willnot 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).
If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Veterans:
Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
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.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
You must provide complete and accurate information or:
your score may be lower than deserved.
you may be disqualified.
You may only apply/testoncefor this posting.
Your results will be provided via email.
Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this shortvideo (https://www.youtube.com/embed/HtcSRnndflc?rel=0) !
See the total value of your benefits package by exploring ourbenefits calculator.
Health & Wellness
We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*
Compensation & Financial Planning
We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.
Work/Life Balance
We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*
Values and Culture
We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.
Employee Perks
Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.
For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visitwww.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
01
Selective Certification Requirement- Do you possess a current driver's license which is not under suspension?
Yes
No
02
If you answered yes, please provide the issuing state and license number. If you answered no, @type N/A in the text box below.
03
Have you been employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an Environmental Trainee in the surface mining program for one full year or more?
Yes
No
04
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, @type N/A in the text box below.
05
How many years of full-time experience do you possess in surface mining and conservation?
3 years or more
2 to less than 3 years
1 to less than 2 years
Less than 1 year
E. None
06
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, @type N/A in the text box below.
07
How much college coursework have you completed in the physical or biological sciences or a closely related environmental field?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visitinghttps://www.naces.organd clicking the Evaluation Services link.
90 credits or more
60 to less than 90 credits
30 to less than 60 credits
Less than 30 credits
None
08
CS-INSTRUCTIONS You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. Youmustcomplete the applicationandanswer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents willnotbe reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.
All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.
Read each question carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training.The "Level of Performance" you choose must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered.In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.
If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.
If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to ourFAQ page (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) .
Yes
09
WORK BEHAVIOR 1 - DOCUMENT INTERPRETATION
Reviews and evaluates surface mine permit applications, mine plans, drawings, specifications, land use documents, topographic maps, and site inspection data in order to determine the viability of proposed mining sites and projected mining activities. Makes recommendations regarding the approval or denial of mining permits.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience reviewing plans, drawings, specifications, land use documents, topographic maps, and site data for coal or non-coal surface mining operations activities to determine or verify scope of work. I was responsible for interpreting information within plan documents to other field personnel and providing technical guidance regarding scope of work.
B. I have experience reviewing plans, drawings, specifications, land use documents, topographic maps, and site data for coal or non-coal surface mining operations activities to determine or verify scope of work. I was NOT responsible for interpreting information within plan documents to other field personnel.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to mining engineering or mining technology.
D. I have no education or experience with this work behavior.
10
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The actual duties you performed related to the level of performance you claimed on this Work Behavior.
Your level of responsibility.
11
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
12
WORK BEHAVIOR 2 - INSPECTIONS
Conducts inspections of surface mining operations, coal refuse disposal areas, coal preparation plants, and coal handling facilities to ensure compliance with permit conditions and environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, and standards. This may include taking water and soil samples, measurements, photographs and field notes while conducting surveys of project areas, as well as inspecting structures, equipment, workmanship and work procedures to detect deficiencies.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience evaluating data from active or inactive coal or non-coal surface mining operations to assess compliance with permit conditions or environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, and standards.
B. I have experience collecting samples, measurements or other data from active or inactive coal or non-coal surface mining operations. I reported my findings to SOMEONE ELSE who analyzed them and assessed compliance with permit conditions or environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, and standards.
C. I have experience assessing compliance with environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations and standards for operations other than surface mining.
D. I have no experience related to this work behavior.
13
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The actual duties you performed related to the level of performance you claimed on this Work Behavior.
Your level of responsibility.
14
WORK BEHAVIOR 3 - TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Reads and interprets environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to surface mining operations. Provides technical guidance and information to industry personnel, the regulated community, government officials, and the public.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience interpreting environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to coal or non-coal surface mining operations. I was responsible for providing technical guidance to industry personnel, the regulated community, government officials, or the public.
B. I have experience interpreting environmental and safety laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to coal or non-coal surface mining operations. I was responsible for answering GENERAL QUESTIONS from industry personnel, the regulated community, government officials, or the public, but REFERRED technical questions or issues to someone else.
C. I have experience interpreting ANY environmental or safety laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures and providing technical guidance to industry personnel, the regulated community, government officials, or the public.
D. I have NO experience related to this work behavior.
15
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The actual duties you performed related to the level of performance you claimed on this Work Behavior.
Your level of responsibility.
16
WORK BEHAVIOR 4 - TECHNICAL WRITING
Composes letters, memos, and e-mails to exchange information with superiors, consultants, regulatory agencies, contractors, public officials, attorneys, and the general public. Composes customized narrative technical reports, notices of violations, compliance agreements, and enforcement documents to convey findings and address deficiencies involving mining operations.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience composing narrative technical reports, notices of violations, compliance agreements, or enforcement documents that I customized to convey findings or determinations.
B. I have experience documenting information in daily activity logs, safety logs, project diaries, or field notes. I have NOT composed narrative technical reports, notices of violations, compliance agreements, or enforcement documents.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to technical writing, writing studies, report writing, professional writing, or writing for business.
D. I have no education or experience related to this work behavior.
17
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
The actual duties you performed related to the level of performance you claimed on this Work Behavior.
Your level of responsibility.
18
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
Required Question
Employer
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Address
613 North Street
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120
Website
http://www.employment.pa.gov
