Open to: General Public
Work Week: 3E (35-hour) Work Week
Salary: (P21) $64,340.11 - $94,061.71
Opening Date: 6/30/2026
Closing Date: 7/21/2026
Existing Vacancies: 1

Program/Location
Department of Environmental Protection
Management and Budget
Division of Information Technology
Office of the Director
401 East State Street
Trenton, NJ 08625

Scope of Eligibility
Open to applicants who meet the requirements below.

Description
Under close supervision and monitoring in a state or local government agency, performs analysis, maintenance, programming and support work on modules of existing systems; may develop web applications or websites; does other related work.

Specific to the Position
The Software Development Specialist will design, test, and implement AI enhanced tools that support NJDEP operations. They will assist in evaluating, creating, and maintaining AI solutions for environmental information systems, including hands on work developing and deploying applications that improve efficiency and service delivery.

Over time, the specialist will contribute to NJDEP’s broader modernization goals by helping shape reusable patterns, lightweight development processes, and best practices for responsible AI adoption.

Key responsibilities include researching emerging AI technologies, training and adapting models to NJDEP data, using Python-based AI toolsets, collaborating with cross functional teams, and supporting the early development of internal standards and repeatable development practices.

Preferred Skill Set
Preference will be given to candidates with the ability to contribute across the project lifecycle with clear communication. Broad software development experience and familiarity with AI/ML concepts. Skilled in responsibly using agentic coding tools such as Claude Code. Proficient in prototyping web apps and integrating AI features. Strong analytical skills and interest in helping establish internal AI development practices and reusable patterns.

Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience.

Five (5) years of professional experience in programming, systems programming or computer analysis.

OR

Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and one (1) year of the above-mentioned professional experience.

OR

Possession of a Master's degree in an information technology field.

NOTE: "Professional experience" refers to work that is analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range of basic knowledge of the profession's concepts and practices; and is performed with the authority to act and make accurate and informed decisions.

NOTE: All U.S. degrees and transcripts must be from an accredited college or university. All foreign degrees and transcripts must be evaluated for accreditation by a recognized evaluation service by the closing date of this posting. Failure to provide documentation may result in ineligibility.

Benefits
As a New Jersey State Department, NJDEP offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid Benefit Leave
• Holiday Pay
• Alternative Workweek Program*
• Telework*
• Pension
• Deferred Compensation
• Health Benefits (medical, prescription drug, dental & vision care) and Life Insurance
• Flexible and Health Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
• Commuter Tax Savings Program
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Tuition Reimbursement*

• Pursuant to the State/Department's policy, procedures, and/or guidelines.

SAME Applicants
If you are applying under the NJ SAME program, your supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter) must be submitted along with your resume by the closing date indicated above. For more information on the SAME program, please email [email protected], or call CSC at (609) 292-4144 and select Option #3.

Veteran's Preference
To qualify for New Jersey Veteran's Preference/status, you must establish Veteran's Preference through the Department of Military and Veteran's Affairs. Please submit proof of your Veteran's Preference along with your resume as indicated. For more information, please visit https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/civil-service-preference/

Residency
All persons newly hired on or after September 1, 2011, have one year from the date of employment to establish, and then maintain principal residence in the State of New Jersey subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (L.2011, Chapter 70), also known as the “New Jersey First Act”.

Authorization to Work
Selected candidates must be authorized to work in the United States per the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship, and Immigration Services regulations. NOTE: The State of New Jersey does not provide sponsorship for citizenship to the United States.

Equal Opportunity Employment
The State of New Jersey seeks to increase the richness and diversity of its workforce, and in doing so, become the employer of choice for all people seeking to work in State Government. To evaluate the effectiveness of our efforts to attract and employ a diverse workforce, applicants are asked to voluntarily answer a few brief questions on the NJ Affirmative Action Information Form. All information is considered confidential and will be filed separately with the agency's affirmative action officer. This information will not be part of your application for employment and will not be considered in any hiring decision.

DEP Notices of Vacancy have a 4:00 p.m. deadline on the closing date. When filing for these opportunities, please be sure to have your letter of interest and credentials sent electronically before 4 p.m. on the closing date.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to inclusive hiring and a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. Accommodations under ADA will be provided upon request.