RRC - Natural Resources Specialist I - III

Please paste the following URL into a browser to view the entire job posting in the CAPPS Career Section: may apply to the job directly through the CAPPS Career Section. It is not necessary to apply both through Work In Texas and CAPPS Career SectionThe Railroad Commission of Texas is a state agency with primary regulatory jurisdiction over the oil and natural gas industry; pipeline transport and pipeline safety; natural gas utilities; the LP-gas industry; and surface mining operations.and#8239;You can find more details about us on the Railroad Commission of Texas' website here To support our mission to serve Texas, we need great people to join our team. We provide a great working environment along with outstanding benefits, including: Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and at least 12 paid holidays per yearTelework options for eligible positionsFlexible work schedulesRetirement pension with a 150% agency match and#8211; you can watch this YouTube video that describes this amazing benefit 457(b) and RothHealth premiums 100% paid for full-time employeesTuition ReimbursementWellness and Exercise LeaveCareer development programs/opportunities for advancement For a complete list of our total compensation package, please visit our website at To view benefits available to all State of Texas employees, visit the Employee Retirement Systems website at DescriptionThe Railroad Commission of Texas seeks a Natural Resources Specialist to work within the Applications and Permits (AP) Section of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD). This position offers the opportunity to implement the Texas Coal Mining Regulations for mines in the State of Texas. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Director. The ideal candidate has demonstrated technical and regulatory aptitude, is friendly, professional, and enjoys advanced problem-solving. The job title for this position will be determined by the Division's business needs and the selected applicant's qualifications.Essential Job DutiesReview permit application sections (new, renewals, revisions, transfers) relating to post-mine land use, geology, and soil baseline information, post-mine soil reconstruction plans, post-mine soil monitoring plans, and post-mine revegetation plans.Review monitoring reports (soils and revegetation) to determine whether they meet regulatory requirements for approval.Review bond release applications.Prepare detailed technical reports advancing a professional opinion regarding the adequacy of an application or monitoring report in meeting the requirements of the Texas Coal Mining Regulations and program requirements with respect to baseline, operations-plan, and reclamation-plan information for the technical areas listed below.Responsible for the technical evaluation of submissions in some or all of the following areas of expertise:Soil and overburden data and handling plansAgronomic plans for the re-establishment of soils and vegetation to support post-mine land-use plansSurface-water quality and quantity dataA working knowledge of:Environmental protection practicesProcedures for successful revegetation of mined landsQuality control of analytical dataStatistical methods in the assessment of natural resources dataFacilitate the completion of multidisciplinary application processing as project coordinator.All evaluation reports may be subject to being presented as evidence in administrative hearings, and the reviewer may need to provide expert oral testimony at such hearings.Upon request, assist field personnel in field evaluations and aid other earth science and agronomy staff with research and tasks related to permitting activities and monitoring of surface mining and reclamation operations.Respond effectively to inquiries and requests from the regulated industry and the public concerning all aspects of surface coal mining, reclamation, and exploration permit application processing and surface uranium mining and exploration permit processing, as necessary.As requested, identify program changes and/or special projects to improve program effectiveness, and assist in the implementation of such through a formal, established procedure.Performs other duties as assigned by his/her manager or the Assistant Director.For Military Crosswalk information, please visit: Minimum QualificationsNatural Resources Specialist IGraduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in soil science, environmental science, natural resources,biology, ecology, or a closely related field.Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills.Valid Texas Driverand#8217;s license and a good driving record.Natural Resources Specialist IIGraduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in soil science, environmental science, natural resources, biology, ecology, or a closely related field.One or more years of relevant work experience.Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills.Valid Texas Driverand#8217;s license and a good driving record.Natural Resources Specialist IIIGraduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in soil science, environmental science, natural resources, biology, ecology, or a closely related field.Two or more years of relevant work experience.Effective writing, reading, grammar, and communication skills.Valid Texas Driverand#8217;s license and a good driving record.Note:Relevant education and experience may be substituted for one another on a one-to-one basisPreferred QualificationsExperience in soil science, agronomy, forestry, and/or mining.Experience dealing with consultants and regulatory agencies.Experience with environmental regulations.Experience with CAD or GIS software for assessment and map production.Experience in the collection and assessment of soil, vegetation, and water samples and lab analyses.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesMajor coursework in soil science, agronomy, or forestry with related experience.Use and maintain all state-owned property to ensure that all equipment is in safe working condition (i.e., vehicle maintenance).The ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.Ability to address issues/concerns in a professional manner.Ability to respond to high-pressure situations and meet changing demands and timelines.Proficient in the use of computer systems, utilizing Microsoft Office Suite and database systems.Demonstrate excellent organizational, communication, and writing skills.Miscellaneous RequirementsAbility to work other than Monday-Friday, 8 AM and#8211; 5 PM, with occasional flexible hours, overtime, and weekends.Position requires ~10% overnight travel.Work EnvironmentMust be willing to work in all types of weather conditions when out in the field.Must be able to walk several miles in inclement weather conditions and over uneven terrain.Exposure to wildlife and poisonous plants is likely during field inspections.Physical RequirementsThe physical requirements described here are representative of those required of an employee to successfully perform the essential functions

Created: 2026-03-02