Governor Corzine today picked a career worker from the Department of Environmental Protection to head up the agency.

Mark Mauriello, an Assistant Commissioner who’s worked for the DEP for 28 years, replaces Commissioner Lisa Jackson as she moves up to replace Bradley Abelow as Corzine’s chief of staff.

“This is a pivotal time for all of us who are committed to safeguarding and improving our environment and the quality of life in our communities, with energy and climate change issues being at the top of the list,” said Corzine in a statement. “I look forward to working closely with Mark in the coming year and will rely on his considerable expertise and sound judgment.”