Job Description and Duties
Are you looking for an exciting and fast-paced career? Join the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and be part of an organization that serves as a leader in emergency management and homeland security through dedicated service to all. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join our team. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity in a high-energy, team-oriented environment, you are encouraged to apply.
Under the general direction of the Program Manager I (PM I), the Associate Environmental Planner (AEP) provides advanced environmental planning, analysis, compliance support, and technical consultation for disaster response and recovery activities across the State of California. Serves as an environmental subject matter expert supporting geologic hazard incidents, watershed protection missions, debris operations, and infrastructure recovery efforts.
The Watershed Mitigation, Coordination, and Outreach Unit supports state, federal, tribal, and local partners in protecting lives, property, infrastructure, and natural resources from geologic hazards, including post-fire debris flows, mudslides, landslides, sediment hazards, and slope instability. Through environmental analysis, technical assistance, coordination, and outreach, the Unit advises on actions that reduce risk and support resilient recovery following disasters.
The AEP integrates environmental and historic preservation considerations into recovery operations by evaluating potential impacts to natural, biological, cultural, and water resources and ensuring activities are consistent with applicable federal, state, and local environmental requirements. Provides environmental technical assistance throughout disaster recovery processes, including Public Assistance (PA), California Disaster Assistance Act (CDAA), and PA Closeout.
Reviewing project scopes, identifies environmental constraints, advises on documentation and potential permitting requirements, and provides technical guidance to applicants and program staff. The AEP does not serve as the permitting authority or formal regulatory liaison but supports stakeholders by identifying applicable requirements, recommending best practices, and facilitating understanding of environmental compliance obligations.
Supports Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) matters related to debris operations, including Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) programs. This includes assessing site conditions, identifying potential impacts to sensitive resources, recommending protective measures, and supporting compliance documentation.
Works within a multidisciplinary environment, collaborates with engineers, geologists, planners, emergency managers, scientists, and partner agencies. Analyzes technical reports, field data, geospatial information, and remote sensing products to inform operational decisions. Requires effective communication with stakeholders who may have limited environmental expertise and involves contributing to guidance, outreach materials, and training related to environmental requirements in disaster recovery.
Exercises sound professional judgment, manages complex assignments with minimal supervision, and provides responsive technical support in time-sensitive operational environments.
