State of Illinois

SPSA, OPT 4 (BOW, WQS/WSMS MANAGER)

State of Illinois$136K — $146K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field
  • 4+ years of progressively responsible administrative experience in water pollution control
  • Ability to interpret state and federal environmental laws
  • Experience in managing agency programs
  • Strong public speaking and communication skills

Responsibilities

  • Direct statewide Water Quality Standards and Watershed Management programs
  • Support the BOW Permit Section
  • Represent the Agency as Section Manager
  • Supervise technical and professional staff
  • Oversee implementation of the Division's toxic strategy

Benefits

  • 37 ½ hour work week
  • Paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Pension and retirement benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Insurance eligibility from Day One (medical, dental, vision, and life)
Full Job Description
Job Requisition ID: 56465
Opening Date: 05/28/2026
Closing Date: 06/11/2026
Agency: Environmental Protection Agency
Class Title: SENIOR PUBLIC SERVICE ADMIN (40070)
Skill Option: Physical Sciences/Environment
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Salary $11,400.00-$12,200.00 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: Term Appointment, Gubernatorial (Management Bill) Exclusion from RC063 Collective Bargaining Coverage

A resume is highly encouraged to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application. Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

***Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned, and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application. ***

Note: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency must verify and have proof of higher education and coursework (if applicable) for any degree earned before any offer can be extended.

Answer all questions thoroughly

Sponsorship for Employment

The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Position Overview

The Bureau of Water is seeking a qualified individual to serve as the Section Manager of statewide Water Quality Standards and Watershed Management programs in the Division of Water Pollution Control (WPC), Bureau of Water (BOW), Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) located in Springfield, IL. The selected candidate will possess strong leadership and communication skills and be willing to use innovative ways to guide the Section and its staff to achieve the goals and missions of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's Bureau of Water. As a leader for the Section, the selected candidate will provide support to the Permit Section, including ammonia analysis, reasonable potential, anti-degradation assessments, disinfection exemptions, lagoon exemptions, and will to direct the statewide program, overseeing the evaluation of petitions relating to site-specific standards, variances, adjusted standards, time limited water quality standards, and regulatory relief, and will plan and oversee implementation of the Division's toxic strategy.

The benefits of working at the EPA include a 37 ½ hour work week, a generous salary and benefits package (paid time off for vacation, sick or personal leave, holidays) pension and other retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and insurance eligibility on day one (medical, dental, vision, and life).

We invite all qualified candidates to apply.

Essential Functions

  • Serves as Section Manager, directing technical and professional staff engaged in execution of the statewide Water Quality Standards and Watershed Management programs in the Division of Water Pollution Control (WPC),
    Bureau of Water (BOW), Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).
  • Manages activities in support of the BOW Permit Section.
  • As Manager of the section represents the Agency and BOW.
  • Serves as a front-line supervisor to section staff:
  • Manages the implementation of the Division's toxic strategy:
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college preferable with courses in environmental water pollution control.
  • Requires prior experience equivalent to four years of progressively responsible administrative experience in environmental water pollution control.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Prefers at least (4) four years' experience in the development of new water pollution control standards and criteria.
  • Prefers at least (4) years' experience in the evaluation of petitions relating to site-specific standards, variances, adjusted standards, or time limited water quality standards.
  • Prefers at least (4) four years' experience in interpreting and applying state and federal environmental laws and regulations specific to water pollution control facilities.
  • Prefers ability to develop and manage a major agency program.
  • Prefers ability to exercise judgment and discretion in developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies and procedures.
  • Prefers at least (4) four years' experience in speaking to large and diverse groups at meetings and communicating highly complex topics effectively in a public setting.
  • Prefers at least (4) four years' experience supervising staff in a professional setting.
  • Prefers the ability to utilize a personal computer with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access software and database programs.


Conditions of Employment

  • Requires the ability to travel.
  • Requires a valid and appropriate driver's license.
  • Requires the ability to pass a name-based background check.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including
    scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work evenings and weekends.
  • This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with Executive Ethics
    Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
    * The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: 8:30-5:00 Mon-Fri 1 hr lunch
Headquarter Location: 2520 W Iles Ave, Springfield, Illinois, 62704
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Kathy Taylor
Email:
Phone #: 217-785-1745
Posting Group: Environmental & Natural Resources; Leadership & Management; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

About State of Illinois

The name "Illinois" comes from a Native American word meaning "tribe of superior men." Louis Joliet and Father Marquette were the first Europeans to arrive in Illinois in 1673. Illinois became a state on December 3, 1818 and was the 21st state to enter the Union. The state motto is "State Sovereignty, National Union." Illinois is the fifth most populous state in the country with almost 12.9 million people. Abraham Lincoln and three other U.S. Presidents have called Illinois home, including Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. The General Assembly adopted the state slogan, "Land of Lincoln" in 1955. Springfield is the state capital and home to more Abraham Lincoln sites than any other place in the United States, including the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Old State Capitol, Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, and Lincoln-Herndon Law Office.

State of Illinois Careers

Join the dedicated team at the State of Illinois and discover a wealth of job opportunities where professional growth and innovation are at the forefront of its mission. The State of Illinois is renowned for its commitment to excellence and diversity, offering careers that cater to a variety of skills and interests.

Work You’ll Do

At the State of Illinois, every position contributes to the betterment of its community and the nation. Whether it's through leadership roles or entry-level positions, the impact of your work will be felt across various sectors. The State provides a platform where skills are honed, and professional aspirations are nurtured.

Explore Diverse Job Opportunities

The State of Illinois offers a range of employment options from administrative roles to environmental conservation, healthcare, and more. Each career path is equipped with comprehensive benefits and opportunities for career advancement.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with the State of Illinois through its dynamic internship programs. These opportunities are designed for those who are looking to develop their professional skills in a real-world setting, providing a stepping stone to full-time employment.

Innovative Work Environment

Innovation is key in the operations at the State of Illinois. Employees are encouraged to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table, driving the State towards efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery.

Professional Growth and Development

The State of Illinois is committed to the professional development of its team. With access to diverse training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, employees are well-equipped to ascend in their careers.

Benefits and Culture

The employment experience at the State of Illinois is enhanced by its inclusive culture and comprehensive benefits package. The State values the well-being and satisfaction of its team, ensuring a supportive and positive work environment.

Networking and Career Advancement

Networking within the State of Illinois can significantly enhance career trajectories. Employees have numerous opportunities to connect with leaders and peers through various events and professional groups, fostering a community of collaboration and support.

Join the Team

The State of Illinois is continuously hiring new talent. Explore open positions that match your skills and interests. The hiring process at the State of Illinois is transparent and thorough, ensuring that the best candidates are selected for the right positions. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a team that values hard work and dedication.

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