Working Title: Air Compliance Inspector
Job Class: Environmental Specialist 1 or 2
Agency: Pollution Control Agency
Job ID : 91666
Location : Various*
Telework Eligible : Yes
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers at the ES 1 or ES 2 level
Date Posted : 01/26/2026
Closing Date : 02/04/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
Division/Unit : Industrial Division / Air Compliance Unit 1
Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
Days of Work : Monday - Friday
Travel Required : Yes - Up to 30% of the time
Environmental Specialist 1 Salary Range: $25.67 - $37.26 / hourly; $53,598 - $77,798 / annually
Environmental Specialist 2 Salary Range: $28.26 - $41.43 / hourly; $59,006 - $86,505 / annually
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
FLSA Status : Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes
*This position may be located at one of the MPCA office locations: Detroit Lakes or Brainerd
The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This position is located within the Air Compliance Section at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and will conduct permitted air pollutant emission facility inspections, respond to complaints, and conduct appropriate follow-up enforcement action when violations are identified. The incumbent analyzes compliance data collected by numerous methods for determination of compliance, and conducts appropriate follow-up with the regulated parties, including enforcement when needed. This position will apply knowledge of state and federal rules and programs related to air quality rule, permit, and policy requirements, and lead and provide support for compliance and enforcement activities. The incumbent conducts investigations and evaluations relating to source air quality compliance, @types and emissions rates of pollutants, and emission control technology, and related emission limits, standards, testing methods and operating requirements found in state and federal rules.
Minimum Qualifications
Environmental Specialist 1
Two years of environmental protection experience OR
A Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field.
Environmental Specialist 2
Three years of environmental protection experience OR
A Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field AND one year of professional environmental protection experience.
(Students in their final semester of college should apply for the position and can start after their graduation date.)
AND
Ability to manage multiple projects.
Ability to gain understanding of the environmental regulator process and state and federal rules.
Basic computer skills with proficiency in Word and exposure to Excel and PowerPoint.
Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members.
Possess a valid Driver's License (see additional requirements).
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas including F-1 STEM OPT extensions. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in performing compliance inspections and elevated enforcement actions.
Knowledge of the overall state and federal environmental regulatory framework related to environmental investigations and the Clean Air Act.
Ability to understand complex industry processes and rules/regulations.
Work effectively with people representing a broad spectrum of positions in business, government, and environmental groups.
Effectively represent the MPCA before a variety of groups relative to social, economic, and environmental issues.
Participated in one the state or agency's student leadership pipeline programs such as Right Track, Step Up, Urban Scholar, Star of the North or Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers.
Physical Requirements
The position may be requested to conduct inspections anywhere in the state and stay overnight at times. Some infrequent lifting of sampling equipment and working out in the field in adverse weather conditions. Ability to conduct inspections that involve climbing and/or stepping over obstacles.
Additional Requirements
This position requires successful completion of the following:
A driver's license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver's License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver's license AND a satisfactory DLR check. Requires a Class D Driver's License: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination weight does not exceed 26,000 pounds.
It is the policy of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
Conflict of Interest Review
Criminal History Check
Education Verification
Employment Reference / Records Check
License / Certification Verification where applicable
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.
