Environmental Specialist-Suffolk

The Environmental Specialist performs a broad range of environmental duties, including the safe efficient operation of the Household Hazardous Waste Program, Random Waste Inspection Program, Special Waste Inspection Program, Used Oil Collection Program, groundwater monitoring, Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) compliance sampling, industrial wastewater compliance sampling, landfill gas monitoring, emergency spill response and various recycling programs for unusual and / or hazardous materials. Performs sampling in the following areas: ground water monitoring, methane gas surface emission monitoring, drinking water monitoring, storm water monitoring, methane gas probe testing, and leachate water discharge monitoring. In addition, perform quarterly inspections at all the SPSA Transfer Stations and the Regional Landfill simulating a Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) inspection to identify potential permit violations before they arise. Also assists with HHW (Household Hazardous Waste collection) events and investigates and prepares reports for unauthorized waste. All operations will be completed with/without direct, on-site supervision of the Environmental Coordinator and or the Environmental Manager. Essential Duties & Responsibilities The approximate amount of time spent on essential duties & responsibilities areas are as follows: Essential Duties & Responsibilities % of Time Responsible for the safe efficient oversight of the Household Hazardous Waste Program, Random Waste Inspection Program, Special Waste Inspection Program, Used Oil Collection, and similar programs. 5% Performs sampling of ground, drinking & storm water, methane gas, and leachate to ensure parameters are within regulatory limits. 60% Enforce SPSA waste disposal policies. Collect, classify, and store waste received at household hazardous waste collection facilities 5% Drive to various sites for inspections and to monitor SPSA's adherence to hazardous waste regulations 10% Prepares written reports and maintains required documentation. 20% Performs on-site inspections of materials and generating processes in support of the Special Waste program. Oversees the work of a team engaged in providing specific services, completing specific projects, or assisting other units. Promptly prepares written reports and relay findings in a clear and concise manner. Maintains accurate records of recyclable materials collected from the various facilities. Conducts simulated Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) self-inspections at SPSA facilities to ensure compliance. Corresponds with regulatory authorities as directed by the Environmental Manager. Performs regularly scheduled sampling events of groundwater, storm water, industrial wastewater, landfill gas & surface emissions, industrial waste, and drinking water. Conscientiously operates and maintains a wide array of scientific and industrial equipment in a manner which promotes longevity and maximum value. Responds to emergency situations involving the release of hazardous materials providing both direction and physical support. Shows respect for workplace facilities, storerooms, satellite storage areas, and vehicles by maintaining a safe, orderly, and clean work environment. Assists with and / or operates the White Goods and Mixed Metal Recycling Program in a safe and efficient manner including recovery of refrigerant from various CFC containing appliances, segregation of scrap metals and proper storage of recyclable hazardous materials. Performs other duties as required or assigned. Experience & Education Required Education - High school diploma or the equivalent required. Required Experience - Two years of technical training or experience in the areas of physical/life science, chemistry, or hazardous materials management are required.

Required Licenses:

Ability to obtain, within 1 year of employment: 40 hour HAZWOPER, class 6 Waterworks Operator License EPA Section 608 Technician Certification Type 1 refrigerant license UST Class A Operator Certification Valid driver's license and safe driving record required to operate SPSA owned or leased vehicles. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered. Knowledge & Skills Basic knowledge of environmental laws and regulations related to landfill and solid waste operations. Knowledge of dangers associated with handling hazardous materials and / or waste. Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions required while working in a heavy industrial environment. Knowledge of Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) inspections procedures. Knowledge of emergency response procedures and ability to respond effectively. Basic knowledge of environmental sample collection with ability to analyze samples. Ability to review lab data to ensure parameters are within guidelines of acceptable legal requirements. General knowledge of basic chemistry principles. Computer skills to maintain records, communicate effectively via e-mail, and prepare reports and access required forms. Working Conditions This position requires spending a considerable amount of time outdoors at the Regional Landfill and other SPSA locations in adverse climatic conditions (i.e., dust, odor, hot, cold, rain, snow). Subjected to work in cold weather, hot sun, extreme heat and around continuous dust and odor from trash. Works in an administrative office setting to complete logs, documentation, and reports. Requires wearing appropriate personal safety gear. Requires ability to collect samples outside of normal working hours to accommodate variable weather conditions. Ability to drive a company vehicle to SPSA locations in all weather conditions. Machines, Tools & Equipment This position will be required to regularly use field equipment and environmental sample collection materials. Frequently drives a company vehicle to various SPSA locations. Uses a personal computer, telephone, and basic office equipment as needed. Physical & Mental Requirements This position requires the ability to: Work in a dynamic environment that requires teamwork and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs. Read, comprehend, and apply waste management regulations at SPSA facilities to prevent receipt of unacceptable waste and determine disposal methods for unacceptable waste. Collect various environmental samples in all climactic conditions and, if needed, outside of normal working hours to accommodate variable weather conditions and complete sampling on time. Write clear and concise reports regarding waste inspected and received. Walk and maneuver through waste at SPSA facilities and industrial waste generator sites. Walk on an incline and/or unstable ground, lift, carry, and transport coolers containing samples. Bend, stoop, reach and pull to gather samples. Communicate in a professional manner with internal and external contacts. Read and comprehend hazardous waste regulations and apply them to the safe receipt, classification, and storage of household hazardous waste. Perform moderate physical activity, including maneuvering 55-gallon drums with a drum cart, lifting up to 25 pounds regularly, and 50 pounds intermittently. Physical ability and manual dexterity to transport remediate or repackage waste as needed. Receive and comprehend directions and perform miscellaneous tasks within a specified period. Requires wearing appropriate safety gear, including full-face respirator, protective suits, hearing protection, safety goggles, hard hat, and steel-toed shoes. Drive an automobile, pick-up truck, and various heavy equipment safely. Thrive in a fast-paced environment to meet deadlines, as needed.