Koricich has been serving as acting mining manager for the past 16 months.

He succeeds William Plassio, who takes on the role of bureau director for district mining operations for the DEP.

As the mining manager in the California office, Koricich will oversee the review and processing of permits for underground mines, coal refuse and fly ash disposal facilities and other issues relating to mining.

Koricich has served the DEP for more than 30 years, initially for 11 years as a senior civil engineer responsible for all aspects of surface mining and compliance.

For the past 22 years, he has worked in various positions at the DEP California district mining office.

“Joel is a registered professional engineer who brings a wealth of experience in all phases of surface and underground mining to the position,” Plassio said.

“I am confident that he will continue to serve with diligence.”