BRINE PROGRAM INSPECTOR/PERMIT LEAD (ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST III)
FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $35.86 - $55.00 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site
Recruiter – Karen Weir | [email protected] | 8015387425
Application Deadline – 8/4/2026
Job Duties
An Environmental Scientist acts as the Division of Oil Gas and Mining’s representative in the field. They work with mining operators to assure compliance with Division rules promoting exploration and development in an environmentally responsible manner. This includes analysis of wells before drilling, during drilling, testing and postproduction closure of brine mining wells and other mining properties.
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities and day to day responsibilities of this position:
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Conduct on-site analysis of proposed brine mining projects in the permit application process
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Inspect brine mining wells, brine facilities, and exploration, small and large mine sites and oversight on orphan mine projects.
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Perform review of Brine Well Permits and Brine Well Permit Amendments.
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Perform review of traditional Exploration and Small mine permit applications and amendments.
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Investigate complaints and follow up with written findings and appropriate recommendations.
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Ensure proper plugging and reclamation of wells and facilities
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Work closely with supervisor concerning well operations and problems.
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Provide consultation, make recommendations, give appropriate advice, and/or facilitate decisions to the Board of Oil, Gas, and Mining, mine operators in Utah, other stakeholders, other Division employees and the public.
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Respond to incidents and spills
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Prepare reports and document observations using database applications, photographs and GIS applications
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Ensure compliance with applicable state law in regards to brine mining exploration, production and waste stream management.
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Address non-compliance items including documentation, tracking and resolution
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Act as an expert witness. Give testimony and/or recommendations in court cases and/or hearings.
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Represent the Division at community meetings and other agency meetings.
Qualifications
Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:
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Knowledge of oil and gas/brine production methods and equipment
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Knowledge of well-bore mechanics
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Knowledge and understanding of oil and gas/deep well drilling methods, well design and blowout prevention
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Willingness and ability to write-up non-compliant operators and to draft abatement measures.
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Ability to oversee and direct the abatement of the non-compliant situation until resolved.
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Ability to apply statutes and rules to permitting and inspection situations.
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Ability to establish good working relationships with operators, the public and other government agencies.
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Ability to communicate effectively both written and orally
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Ability to document work through the use of notes, photos, tablet, computers and GPS to be used as evidence and testimony in hearings or court proceedings.
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Ability to operate a 4wd vehicle in conditions associated with rural Utah dirt roads.
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Skills in assessing work load and planning day to day schedule
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Valid Driver's License
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A degree or equivalent experience in petroleum exploration, engineering, geology or natural science field
Preferred or trainable/on-the-job qualifications:
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Knowledge of Utah’s “Brine Mining Rules” and minerals rules for exploratory, small and large mines.
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Ability to direct contractors according to contract documents and accepted engineering practices.
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Ability to evaluate soils, slope stability, ground water hydrology, surface water drainage for placement of brine mining wells and associated facilities.
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Knowledge and experience to make decisions pertaining to the implementation of Utah’s brine mining rules.
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Working knowledge of and use of scientific publication findings.
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Knowledge of and ability to apply engineering principles and practices (i.e. BOP, Drilling, Casing, Cementing).
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Ability to interpret various forms of data: oil and gas type equipment, soil and water testing results, down-hole logs and other types of data.
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Knowledge of water and soil sampling procedures and types of analytical methods
About the Role
Location –
1594 West North Temple
Salt Lake City, UT, 84116
United States
Background Check Required – No
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – B - Competitive Career Service
Work Schedule - Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5: 00 PM
Work environment, working conditions, physical requirements -
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Significant daily and some overnight travel is required
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Schedule may change based on industry activity
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Work requires physical exertion.
- May require the ability to stand; walk over rough surfaces.
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Outside work in all weather conditions
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Working around workover/drilling rigs and high pressure and heavy lifting equipment.
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Specialized safety precautions or equipment may be used as a part of daily work assignments.
Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
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Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
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Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
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Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
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Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
The Agency
This is an exciting opportunity to start or advance your career with the Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining. This
position is directly involved in the direction and development of the brine mining/minerals mining industry in the
state. The State of Utah offers great benefits and generous paid time off, allowing employees to plan activities,
spend time with family and have a positive work-life balance.
Utah Department of Natural Resources
Oil, Gas, and Mining
EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
