City of Vista, CA
Salary : $72,640.62 - $97,345.82 Annually
Location : Vista City Hall - 200 Civic Center Drive Vista 92084, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-67-O
Department: Engineering Stormwater
Opening Date: 07/29/2025
Closing Date: 8/19/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: VCEA
Position
Are you looking to join a dynamic team with a strong sense of accountability that strives to achieve great results? Discover what makes the City of Vista an amazing place to work!
Environmental Specialist I (G28): $6,053.39 to $7,357.96 per month.
Environmental Specialist II (G32): $6,673.90 to $8,112.15 per month.
This is a flexibly-staffed position and applicants will be considered for both classifications based on qualifying experience.
DEFINITION:
Under general supervision, an Environmental Specialist assists in the coordination and implementation of the technical components of the City's Water Quality Protection Program and related department activities associated with water quality, urban runoff and stormwater pollution; conducts field investigation and inspection of industrial, commercial, and residential dischargers; performs water quality monitoring and data analysis, education and outreach, complaint response, and watershed activities; assists with annual report preparation; and performs related duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
The Environmental Specialist I:
Is the entry-level classification in the Environmental Specialist series. Incumbents work under the direction of the Senior Environmental Specialist, and/or the Stormwater Program Manager. This classification is distinguished from the Environmental Specialist II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series, including the routine education and outreach efforts; permitting activities; inspections, audits, and studies; and environmental sampling. Work is reviewed in progress and/or upon completion for accuracy and completeness.
The Environmental Specialist II:
Is the journey-level classification in the Environmental Specialist series. Employees within this classification are distinguished from the Environmental Specialist I in the variety and complexity of inspections, investigations and related activities of the City's Water Quality Protection Program, and by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned. The primary responsibility of the Environmental Specialist II is to plan and organize inspections, investigations and related activities. Incumbents at this level are expected to work independently and schedule their work within required timeframes to meet the objectives of the program.
Examples of Essential Functions
Environmental Specialist I:
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position. A typical qualifying background is a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry or a closely related field; and
Environmental Specialist I : one (1) year of experience performing environmental or water quality field and office work.
Environmental Specialist II: two (2) years of progressively responsible experience performing environmental or water quality field and office work.
LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS:
A valid Class C California Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is required.
KNOWLEDGE OF:
Applicable federal, state and local codes, laws, regulations and ordinances relating to stormwater and/or environmental protection issues (notably, NPDES MS4 permits and programs); modern principles and practices of chemistry, biology, microbiology or environmental protection applicable to stormwater, wastewater, hazardous materials or waste, or industrial wastes; best Management Practices used for effective stormwater management at industrial and commercial businesses, residential properties, development projects and construction sites; regional environmental issues, including municipal stormwater pollution prevention responsibilities; basic principles of inspection, investigation, or code enforcement; basic principles and practices of municipal stormwater and sewer systems; methods of detection of pollutants in urban runoff or other wastes, and their effect on the environment; proper use of water monitoring, sampling, and testing equipment and techniques; modern office procedures and methods including computer equipment and word processing, Geographic Information Systems, and spreadsheet applications; principles of record keeping, case management, and reporting and principles and practices used to deal effectively with the public.
SKILL IN:
Operating a variety of office equipment including a personal computer and associated software programs such as word processing, data analysis tools, spreadsheets and geographic information systems (GIS); collecting stormwater samples from various sites; using water monitoring, sampling, and testing equipment; operating a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices.
ABILITY TO:
Properly interpret and apply laws, ordinances, regulations, and policies; investigate and identify common stormwater pollutants and possible sources, and applicable Best Management Practices; perform responsible administrative support duties involving the use of independent and personal initiative; understand and implement principles, practices, methods, and techniques of inspection, code violation investigation, enforcement, water sampling and testing; apply procedures and practices for issuing notices of violation and schedules for compliance; research, collect, compile, and analyze information and data; maintain and update records, logs, and reports; understand and follow oral and written instructions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; lead meetings and make effective presentations; establish, maintain, and foster positive working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Other Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to communicate effectively verbally and in a written manner; observe and interpret data, and analyze and solve problems. The employee must be able to work indoor office environments/outdoor in the field environments (depending on position); Incumbents will work in a variety of environmental settings, in and around stormwater, wastewater, industrial wastes, hazardous substances, and in the immediate vicinity of laboratory chemicals and reactive agents used to analyze environmental samples. The employee may have to move up to 50 lbs. and transport up to 10 lbs. objects frequently (depending on position). Vision abilities required by this job include the ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, estimate, and assess work related objects and/or work products based on position specific designated tasks. The employee may be required to work overtime to complete assignments. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Use of personal vehicle during employment to travel within and out of City limits for meetings may also be required.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A City application form and supplemental questionnaire MUST be submitted and received by the closing date. Please apply online at All other employment inquiries can be directed to the City of Vista, Human Resources Office, 200 Civic Center Drive, Vista, CA 92084. Telephone: (760) 726-1340.
SELECTION PROCESS :
Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
The City of Vista is an Equal Opportunity and ADA compliant employer. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply!
*SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Recruitment Closes- Tuesday, August 19th
Initial Interview Panel- Week of September 1st
Department Interview- Week of September 15th
*Please note, all dates and/or timeframes are subject to change.
VACATION
85 Hrs. - 1-5 years of continuous service
125 Hrs. - 6-10 years
160 Hrs. - 11-15 years
180 Hrs. - 16-20 years
200 Hrs. - 20+ years
SICK LEAVE
Full time employees receive 96 hours per year.
HOLIDAYS
Full time employees working the 9/80 flex schedule receive 99 hours of holiday leave per fiscal year to cover scheduled holidays as wells as one floating holiday
INSURANCE
Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance programs. A portion of the employee's and dependent's premiums are paid by the City.
WELLNESS PROGRAMMING
The City offers comprehensive wellness programming to its employees including onsite wellness facilities and onsite wellness sessions.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
The City's Tuition Reimbursement Plan can assist employees in paying the cost of books and tuition for pre-approved classes which relate to their job.
RETIREMENT
Depending on eligibility, based on CalPERS criteria, new employees will be provided the 3% @ 60 Plan or newly established 2% @ 62 Plan. Employees currently contribute the entire employee contribution amount of 8%.
The City does not participate in Social Security, but employees must be enrolled in the Medicare portion.
*Actual benefits will depend on date of hire and may differ from the information listed. Part-time employee benefits may be prorated.
01
ATTENTION APPLICANTS: Copying and pasting duplicate answers and stating "See resume" and/or "see previous answer" are not acceptable to the questions below. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate and understand that the statements made in this supplemental questionnaire will be considered part of and subject to the terms of my employment application for this position. Please acknowledge your understanding by selecting "Yes".
02
Which best describes your level of education?
03
How many years of full-time, responsible experience do you have in municipal stormwater or urban water quality programs?
04
Based on your response to the previous question, summarize your duties and related experience.
05
Do you possess a valid California Class "C" Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record or do you have the ability to obtain one by the time you are hired?
06
Briefly describe your experience performing field investigations and inspections for compliance with stormwater pollution prevention regulations or any other environmental compliance experience.
07
Briefly describe your experience managing data and preparing reports with the data. Please indicate the employer and types of reports prepared.
Required Question
Location : Vista City Hall - 200 Civic Center Drive Vista 92084, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-67-O
Department: Engineering Stormwater
Opening Date: 07/29/2025
Closing Date: 8/19/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: VCEA
Position
Are you looking to join a dynamic team with a strong sense of accountability that strives to achieve great results? Discover what makes the City of Vista an amazing place to work!
Environmental Specialist I (G28): $6,053.39 to $7,357.96 per month.
Environmental Specialist II (G32): $6,673.90 to $8,112.15 per month.
This is a flexibly-staffed position and applicants will be considered for both classifications based on qualifying experience.
DEFINITION:
Under general supervision, an Environmental Specialist assists in the coordination and implementation of the technical components of the City's Water Quality Protection Program and related department activities associated with water quality, urban runoff and stormwater pollution; conducts field investigation and inspection of industrial, commercial, and residential dischargers; performs water quality monitoring and data analysis, education and outreach, complaint response, and watershed activities; assists with annual report preparation; and performs related duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
The Environmental Specialist I:
Is the entry-level classification in the Environmental Specialist series. Incumbents work under the direction of the Senior Environmental Specialist, and/or the Stormwater Program Manager. This classification is distinguished from the Environmental Specialist II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series, including the routine education and outreach efforts; permitting activities; inspections, audits, and studies; and environmental sampling. Work is reviewed in progress and/or upon completion for accuracy and completeness.
The Environmental Specialist II:
Is the journey-level classification in the Environmental Specialist series. Employees within this classification are distinguished from the Environmental Specialist I in the variety and complexity of inspections, investigations and related activities of the City's Water Quality Protection Program, and by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned. The primary responsibility of the Environmental Specialist II is to plan and organize inspections, investigations and related activities. Incumbents at this level are expected to work independently and schedule their work within required timeframes to meet the objectives of the program.
Examples of Essential Functions
Environmental Specialist I:
- Plans, organizes and participates in the permitting, monitoring, inspection, enforcement, pollution prevention, and data management activities of the City's Water Quality Protection Program and other related environmental programs in accordance with federal, state and local laws and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit(s)
- Coordinates the investigation of stormwater run-off, industrial related stormwater quality problems, complaints and violations of storm water regulations and codes
- Prepares outreach materials, conducts outreach efforts and train city staff on storm water and environmental protection; provides information to property and business owners, tenants, city employees, and the general public through individual contact in the field, over the counter, at workshops or community events, by telephone, and/or other appropriate means; coordinates with internal City departments to improve levels of compliance with NPDES permit
- Prepares notices of violation and compliance schedules in cooperation with violators; prepares cases for court action, and appear in court to testify in such action
- Prepares and maintains records of investigations made and actions taken
- Maintains inspection files, records, and logs; write reports and chronologies
- Reviews and determines completeness of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans and Best Management Practices to maximize stormwater and environmental protection
- Performs sampling and basic field testing of stormwater, wastewater and other environmental samples; determine pollutants and further need for lab testing
- Evaluates and interpret technical reports, documents, manifests, applications and permits related to environmental regulations and compliance with local, state and federal regulations
Environmental Specialist II (in addition to above): - Assists in the development and implementation of policies, procedures and other program requirements for education, inspections, complaint response, watershed activities, annual report writing, inter-departmental training and coordination, city representation at regional meetings
- Schedules work activities and inspections independently to meet program objectives in a timely manner
- Reviews construction plans to identify stormwater discharge sources and best management practices (structural and non-structural) to maximize stormwater and water quality protection
- Compiles compliance reports and associated correspondence to regulatory agencies. Researches availability of grant monies for projects related to the department's responsibilities, and write applications
- Provides training, direction and guidance for City staff as directed by the Senior Environmental Specialist or the Stormwater Program Manager
- Conducts meetings, represents the City at meetings, and make presentations to public interest groups, City personnel and others as directed
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position. A typical qualifying background is a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry or a closely related field; and
Environmental Specialist I : one (1) year of experience performing environmental or water quality field and office work.
Environmental Specialist II: two (2) years of progressively responsible experience performing environmental or water quality field and office work.
LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS:
A valid Class C California Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is required.
KNOWLEDGE OF:
Applicable federal, state and local codes, laws, regulations and ordinances relating to stormwater and/or environmental protection issues (notably, NPDES MS4 permits and programs); modern principles and practices of chemistry, biology, microbiology or environmental protection applicable to stormwater, wastewater, hazardous materials or waste, or industrial wastes; best Management Practices used for effective stormwater management at industrial and commercial businesses, residential properties, development projects and construction sites; regional environmental issues, including municipal stormwater pollution prevention responsibilities; basic principles of inspection, investigation, or code enforcement; basic principles and practices of municipal stormwater and sewer systems; methods of detection of pollutants in urban runoff or other wastes, and their effect on the environment; proper use of water monitoring, sampling, and testing equipment and techniques; modern office procedures and methods including computer equipment and word processing, Geographic Information Systems, and spreadsheet applications; principles of record keeping, case management, and reporting and principles and practices used to deal effectively with the public.
SKILL IN:
Operating a variety of office equipment including a personal computer and associated software programs such as word processing, data analysis tools, spreadsheets and geographic information systems (GIS); collecting stormwater samples from various sites; using water monitoring, sampling, and testing equipment; operating a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices.
ABILITY TO:
Properly interpret and apply laws, ordinances, regulations, and policies; investigate and identify common stormwater pollutants and possible sources, and applicable Best Management Practices; perform responsible administrative support duties involving the use of independent and personal initiative; understand and implement principles, practices, methods, and techniques of inspection, code violation investigation, enforcement, water sampling and testing; apply procedures and practices for issuing notices of violation and schedules for compliance; research, collect, compile, and analyze information and data; maintain and update records, logs, and reports; understand and follow oral and written instructions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; lead meetings and make effective presentations; establish, maintain, and foster positive working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Other Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to communicate effectively verbally and in a written manner; observe and interpret data, and analyze and solve problems. The employee must be able to work indoor office environments/outdoor in the field environments (depending on position); Incumbents will work in a variety of environmental settings, in and around stormwater, wastewater, industrial wastes, hazardous substances, and in the immediate vicinity of laboratory chemicals and reactive agents used to analyze environmental samples. The employee may have to move up to 50 lbs. and transport up to 10 lbs. objects frequently (depending on position). Vision abilities required by this job include the ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, estimate, and assess work related objects and/or work products based on position specific designated tasks. The employee may be required to work overtime to complete assignments. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Use of personal vehicle during employment to travel within and out of City limits for meetings may also be required.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A City application form and supplemental questionnaire MUST be submitted and received by the closing date. Please apply online at All other employment inquiries can be directed to the City of Vista, Human Resources Office, 200 Civic Center Drive, Vista, CA 92084. Telephone: (760) 726-1340.
SELECTION PROCESS :
Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
The City of Vista is an Equal Opportunity and ADA compliant employer. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply!
*SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Recruitment Closes- Tuesday, August 19th
Initial Interview Panel- Week of September 1st
Department Interview- Week of September 15th
*Please note, all dates and/or timeframes are subject to change.
VACATION
85 Hrs. - 1-5 years of continuous service
125 Hrs. - 6-10 years
160 Hrs. - 11-15 years
180 Hrs. - 16-20 years
200 Hrs. - 20+ years
SICK LEAVE
Full time employees receive 96 hours per year.
HOLIDAYS
Full time employees working the 9/80 flex schedule receive 99 hours of holiday leave per fiscal year to cover scheduled holidays as wells as one floating holiday
INSURANCE
Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance programs. A portion of the employee's and dependent's premiums are paid by the City.
WELLNESS PROGRAMMING
The City offers comprehensive wellness programming to its employees including onsite wellness facilities and onsite wellness sessions.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
The City's Tuition Reimbursement Plan can assist employees in paying the cost of books and tuition for pre-approved classes which relate to their job.
RETIREMENT
Depending on eligibility, based on CalPERS criteria, new employees will be provided the 3% @ 60 Plan or newly established 2% @ 62 Plan. Employees currently contribute the entire employee contribution amount of 8%.
The City does not participate in Social Security, but employees must be enrolled in the Medicare portion.
*Actual benefits will depend on date of hire and may differ from the information listed. Part-time employee benefits may be prorated.
01
ATTENTION APPLICANTS: Copying and pasting duplicate answers and stating "See resume" and/or "see previous answer" are not acceptable to the questions below. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate and understand that the statements made in this supplemental questionnaire will be considered part of and subject to the terms of my employment application for this position. Please acknowledge your understanding by selecting "Yes".
- Yes
- No
02
Which best describes your level of education?
- High School
- Some College
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
03
How many years of full-time, responsible experience do you have in municipal stormwater or urban water quality programs?
- 1-2 years
- 3-5 years
- 5 or more years
- None
04
Based on your response to the previous question, summarize your duties and related experience.
05
Do you possess a valid California Class "C" Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record or do you have the ability to obtain one by the time you are hired?
- Yes
- No
06
Briefly describe your experience performing field investigations and inspections for compliance with stormwater pollution prevention regulations or any other environmental compliance experience.
07
Briefly describe your experience managing data and preparing reports with the data. Please indicate the employer and types of reports prepared.
Required Question