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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Field Chemist

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

ScienceEnvironmental ServicesWaste ManagementField Services

🎯 Role Definition

As a Field Chemist, you are the technical backbone of our environmental services operations, working directly at client sites to ensure the safe and compliant management of chemical and hazardous materials. This is a hands-on, dynamic role that requires a strong chemistry background, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to solve complex problems in real-time. You will be responsible for everything from sampling and identifying unknown substances to packaging and documenting waste for transport and disposal. This position is perfect for a science-driven individual who enjoys working outside of a traditional lab, interacting with clients, and making a tangible impact on environmental safety and regulatory compliance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Recent Graduate (Chemistry, Environmental Science)
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Environmental Technician

Advancement To:

  • Senior Field Chemist / Lead Chemist
  • Project Manager
  • EHS (Environmental, Health & Safety) Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Technical Sales Representative
  • Environmental Compliance Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct on-site analysis and characterization of unknown chemical materials at client locations, utilizing a variety of field testing techniques and instruments.
  • Properly segregate, package, and label hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials in accordance with strict DOT, EPA, and RCRA regulations to ensure safe transportation and disposal.
  • Prepare and complete detailed waste profiles, manifests, land disposal restriction forms (LDRs), and other required documentation with high accuracy to maintain regulatory compliance.
  • Interface directly with clients to provide technical guidance, ensure customer satisfaction, and identify opportunities for additional services or process improvements.
  • Perform comprehensive lab pack services, which involves the meticulous inventory, categorization, and consolidation of laboratory chemicals for compliant disposal.
  • Operate company vehicles, including box trucks, to transport supplies and waste materials between job sites and designated facilities, adhering to all transportation safety protocols.
  • Maintain a state of readiness for emergency response situations, including chemical spills, requiring rapid mobilization and effective containment and cleanup actions.
  • Manage and maintain all field equipment, instrumentation, and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure proper functionality, calibration, and safety.
  • Collect representative samples of soil, water, and waste streams for subsequent laboratory analysis, ensuring proper sample preservation and chain-of-custody procedures are followed.
  • Evaluate and approve waste streams for acceptance at treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) based on analytical data and regulatory criteria.
  • Provide on-site supervision and technical direction to field technicians and other support personnel during large-scale projects and cleanups.
  • Conduct daily safety meetings (tailgate talks) to review project hazards, safety procedures, and emergency plans with the entire field team.
  • Utilize handheld devices and proprietary software to accurately track inventory, log activities, and manage project data in real-time from the field.
  • Perform chemical bulking and consolidation activities, carefully combining compatible waste streams into larger containers to optimize transportation and disposal efficiency.
  • Interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and other technical documents to assess chemical hazards and determine appropriate handling and disposal protocols.
  • Assist in the development and review of site-specific Health and Safety Plans (HASPs) to mitigate risks associated with each unique project.
  • Ensure the proper placarding of vehicles and containers according to Department of Transportation (DOT) hazardous materials regulations.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve logistical and technical challenges that arise at client sites, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills under pressure.
  • Maintain a detailed and accurate logbook of all daily activities, mileage, and project-related expenses for proper record-keeping and billing.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by professionally addressing client inquiries, explaining procedures, and ensuring project objectives are met to their satisfaction.
  • Stay current with evolving local, state, and federal environmental regulations (RCRA, DOT, EPA, OSHA) to ensure continuous compliance across all field activities.
  • Decontaminate equipment, personnel, and work zones to prevent cross-contamination and ensure a safe exit from hazardous environments.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with warehouse operations, including chemical container handling, inventory management, and restocking of field supplies.
  • Support the sales and project management teams by providing technical field-level insights for quoting and project planning.
  • Participate in internal safety audits and contribute to the continuous improvement of company-wide health and safety procedures.
  • Mentor and train junior technicians and new chemists on field procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Hazardous Waste Characterization: Deep understanding of waste identification based on RCRA, DOT, and state-specific regulations.
  • Chemical Segregation & Lab Packing: Expertise in safely categorizing and packaging diverse chemicals.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Proficiency in interpreting and applying EPA, DOT, and OSHA standards.
  • Field Analysis Techniques: Skill in using field instruments like pH meters, PIDs (Photoionization Detectors), and performing hazard categorization tests.
  • Waste Manifesting & Documentation: Accuracy in preparing and managing all shipping and disposal paperwork.
  • Sample Collection: Knowledge of proper sampling methods for various media (soil, water, waste) and chain-of-custody protocols.
  • Chemistry Fundamentals: Strong grasp of chemical compatibility, reactivity, and terminology.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and adapt to unexpected challenges in a fast-paced field environment.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to documentation, labeling, and safety procedures to prevent errors.
  • Communication & Customer Service: Professional demeanor and clear communication skills for interacting with clients, regulators, and team members.
  • Physical Stamina & Resilience: Capability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for extended periods.
  • Independent Work Ethic: Self-motivated and able to manage time and tasks effectively with minimal supervision.
  • Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to following safety protocols for oneself and the team.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree

Preferred Education:

Master of Science (M.S.) Degree in a related field

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Chemistry
  • Environmental Science
  • Biology
  • Chemical Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-3 years of relevant experience. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or those early in their environmental career.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience in the hazardous waste management or environmental services industry.
  • A current 40-hour HAZWOPER certification is highly desirable.
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or the willingness to obtain one.
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