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Environmental Specialist
Career Insights for Environmental Planner / Scientist
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Based on Massachusetts data
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What they do
An Environmental Planner or Scientist uses training and background in natural sciences to study the environment and threats to the environment. Investigates environmental problems and advises on solutions. May focus on potential environmental health risks to people, such as unsafe drinking water, or on protecting the environment and ecosystems from human activity such as development and industrial pollution.
$75,824 / year median in Massachusetts
+17% projected growth
Job Description
Full Job Description Job Title:
Environmental Specialist Job Description The Environmental Specialist works 100% in the field handling hazardous waste and supporting environmental compliance for a variety of client sites. In this role, you join a small team to perform lab pack services, including chemical segregation, packing, and disposal, while conducting chemical inventories, facility audits, and laboratory inspections. You contribute to the development of standard operating procedures, support key accounts, and demonstrate leadership through daily collaboration with your crew. This position offers extensive field experience, regular customer interaction, and a clear advancement program with strong internal promotion opportunities. Responsibilities Work in the field with hazardous waste at various client locations throughout the Greater Boston area. Perform lab pack services, including chemical segregation, packing, labeling, and coordinating proper disposal of chemicals. Conduct detailed chemical inventories at client facilities and laboratories. Perform audits and inspections of facilities and laboratories to support health, safety, and environmental compliance. Assist leadership in developing top accounts and help devise and refine standard operating procedures. Collaborate closely with a crew of 2-5 team members, including a team lead, to complete daily assignments safely and efficiently. Demonstrate supervisory and leadership qualities through positive interactions, guidance, and support of team members. Interact professionally with clients on a daily basis, explaining processes, answering questions, and providing excellent customer service. Handle the physical aspects of the job, including lifting, moving, and packing containers of chemicals and hazardous materials. Follow health and safety protocols, including OSHA and hazardous materials handling standards, at all times. Drive a company vehicle from the central office to various client sites with your team, maintaining safe driving practices. Adapt to changing daily schedules, tasks, and client needs, ensuring all work is completed accurately and on time. Essential Skills Strong interest in working in the field with hazardous waste and environmental services. Bachelor's degree in a science-related field; Environmental Science preferred. Acceptable related degrees include Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Geology, Marine Science, or similar disciplines. Prior work experience, ideally in a hands-on or customer service role rather than research-focused work. Ability to be personable and interact comfortably with clients on a daily basis. Comfort with the physical aspects of the role, including packing and disposing of chemicals and handling materials. Understanding of health and safety principles in an environmental or hazardous materials context. Customer service skills with a focus on clear communication and professionalism. Ability to work effectively in small field crews and follow direction from a team lead. Willingness to work 8-10 hour days starting at 6 or 7 a.m. in a fully field-based role. Additional Skills & Qualifications Background or coursework in environmental science, environmental health, or related disciplines. Familiarity with OSHA standards and health & safety regulations; OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER or similar training is beneficial. Experience with hazardous materials handling or field surveying is a plus. Field service experience in environmental or industrial settings is advantageous. Demonstrated ability to provide strong customer service in dynamic, on-site environments. Interest in long-term career growth within environmental services, with motivation to pursue promotions and added responsibilities. Ability to demonstrate emerging supervisory leadership skills through teamwork and communication. Comfort working in a variety of settings, including bio/pharma, life sciences, hospitals, and higher education institutions. Work Environment This role is entirely field-based, with work performed on-site at various locations throughout the Greater Boston area, including bio/pharma companies, life science organizations, hospitals, and higher education institutions. There is no typical day, as you will support different clients and tasks each day. You report to the Somerville office every morning, then travel with your crew of 2-5 team members in a company vehicle to assigned sites. Workdays are typically 8-10 hours, starting at 6 or 7 a.m., and involve hands-on handling of chemicals and hazardous materials, performing inventories, audits, and lab pack services. The environment is fast-paced and physically active, with a strong emphasis on health and safety practices and adherence to OSHA and hazardous materials handling standards. The organization offers a structured advancement program once you become a permanent employee, providing promotions and raises over approximately 2-2.5 years, with most leadership roles filled through internal promotion. This creates a culture focused on growth, mentorship, and long-term development, while giving you substantial field experience and regular interaction with clients. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Somerville, MA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Somerville,MA.