Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Environmental Technician

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Technician to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will be the hands-on force for our environmental assessment, monitoring, and remediation projects. You'll work in both field and office settings, collecting vital data that informs our strategies for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a strong scientific background, a passion for the outdoors, and an unwavering commitment to health and safety. This is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career and make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Recent Graduate (Environmental Science, Geology, Biology)
Environmental Intern or Co-op
Field Laborer or Construction Technician

Advancement To:

Senior Environmental Technician
Staff Scientist / Geologist / Engineer
Environmental Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist
GIS Analyst
Compliance Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conduct comprehensive field investigations, including the collection of soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, and air samples in accordance with established protocols (ASTM, EPA, etc.).
Perform and document soil boring and monitoring well installations, including soil classification using systems like the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
Operate, calibrate, and maintain a wide range of environmental monitoring and sampling equipment, such as photoionization detectors (PIDs), multi-gas meters, water quality meters, and GPS units.
Execute groundwater monitoring events, including water level measurements, well purging, and sample collection using various techniques (e.g., low-flow, bailing).
Assist with the implementation and oversight of remedial action plans, including the operation and maintenance of soil vapor extraction (SVE) and groundwater treatment systems.
Document all field activities meticulously in detailed field notes, logs, and standardized forms to ensure data integrity and defensibility.
Adhere strictly to site-specific Health and Safety Plans (HASPs) and company-wide safety policies to promote a culture of safety for yourself and the team.
Support Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) by conducting site reconnaissance, historical research, and subsurface sampling activities.
Manage the proper packaging, labeling, and chain-of-custody documentation for environmental samples being shipped to analytical laboratories.
Perform construction quality assurance (CQA) monitoring and materials testing for landfill construction, liner installation, and site closure projects.
Conduct asbestos, lead-based paint, and mold inspections and sampling under the guidance of a certified industrial hygienist.
Prepare and compile field data into tables, charts, and figures for inclusion in technical reports and regulatory submissions.
Assist Project Managers and senior staff with the preparation of technical reports, work plans, and environmental permit applications.
Perform routine inspections of industrial facilities to ensure compliance with air permits, stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs), and hazardous waste regulations.
Operate and maintain remediation systems, troubleshoot operational issues, and record system performance data.
Supervise and direct subcontractors (e.g., drillers, excavators) during field activities to ensure work is completed safely and according to project specifications.
Utilize GPS technology for locating sampling points, mapping site features, and collecting spatial data for use in GIS applications.
Participate in emergency response activities for spills or environmental releases, including initial assessment and containment support.
Conduct indoor air quality (IAQ) and vapor intrusion (VI) assessments, deploying and retrieving sampling media like Summa canisters and sorbent tubes.
Provide technical support for stormwater management, including SWPPP inspections, sampling, and best management practice (BMP) maintenance.
Tabulate and perform quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) checks on analytical laboratory data to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Secondary Functions

Maintain, clean, and inventory all field sampling and monitoring equipment to ensure it is in proper working order for deployment.
Assist with the procurement of field supplies, equipment rentals, and subcontractor services.
Participate actively in daily safety "tailgate" meetings and contribute to the ongoing improvement of safety procedures.
Support senior staff with data entry, literature reviews, and preparation of materials for client meetings and proposals.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Environmental Sampling: Proficiency in collecting soil, groundwater, air, and surface water samples using standard industry methods.
Field Equipment Operation: Experience with environmental monitoring instruments such as PIDs, FIDs, XRF analyzers, water quality meters, and air sampling pumps.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with federal and state environmental regulations (e.g., RCRA, CERCLA, CWA, CAA) and agencies (EPA, OSHA).
40-Hour HAZWOPER: Current OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification with up-to-date 8-hour refreshers is highly preferred.
Technical Writing: Ability to record detailed field notes and contribute to the preparation of clear and concise technical reports.
Data Management: Competency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data tabulation and analysis.
GPS/GIS: Basic knowledge of GPS for field mapping and an understanding of fundamental GIS principles.
Soil Classification: Ability to classify soil and rock using standardized systems (e.g., USCS, Burmister).
Construction Oversight: Experience monitoring construction or remediation activities to ensure compliance with design specifications.
Subcontractor Coordination: Skill in directing and communicating with drilling, excavation, or other field service contractors.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data collection, documentation, and following protocols.
Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and troubleshoot equipment or logistical issues in the field.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with team members, clients, and subcontractors.
Work Ethic & Dependability: Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Physical Stamina: Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions and lift/carry equipment up to 50 lbs.
Adaptability: Flexibility to handle changing project schedules, site conditions, and frequent travel.
Safety Consciousness: A deep-seated commitment to following safety procedures without compromise.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Associate's degree or technical certification in an environmental or science-related field.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrogeology, Chemistry, or a related discipline.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Environmental Science
Geology / Earth Science
Environmental Engineering
Biology / Chemistry

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-3 years of direct experience in environmental consulting, field sampling, or a related role.

Preferred:

1-2 years of hands-on experience performing environmental field investigations, including soil and groundwater sampling for a consulting or engineering firm. Experience with remediation system O&M is a significant plus.