Hazardous Waste Specialist
Responsible for the identification, handling, and proper disposal of hazardous wastes to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Hazardous Waste Specialist
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
This position involves working closely with environmental engineers and technicians to manage, regulate, and minimize the impact of hazardous wastes. Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, safety standards, and proper disposal methods are key aspects of the role.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Basic understanding of hazardous materials and waste management practices.
- Ability to work both independently and within a team.
- Familiarity with safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, or a related field.
- Knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations and standards.
- Physical fitness and the ability to wear protective gear when necessary.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the collection and analysis of hazardous waste samples for testing and categorization.
- Coordinate with local and state regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
- Implement and monitor waste treatment and disposal systems in accordance with safety guidelines.
- Participate in the development of emergency response plans for potential hazardous waste incidents.
- Maintain accurate records of hazardous waste management activities.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Hazardous Waste Specialist is responsible for the proper handling, management, and disposal of hazardous materials to ensure environmental safety and compliance with regulatory requirements. This role requires detailed knowledge of hazardous waste regulations and an ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Required Skills
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency with hazardous waste management software and database systems.
- Physical ability to handle and manage hazardous materials safely.
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Intermediate experience (2-5 years) working with hazardous materials in an industrial or laboratory setting.
- Certification in Hazardous Materials Management (CHMM) or a similar credential preferred.
- Familiarity with Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other relevant environmental regulations.
- Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local waste management regulations.
Responsibilities
- Identify and classify hazardous waste materials according to federal and state regulations.
- Coordinate and oversee the storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous wastes.
- Conduct audits and inspections to ensure compliance with environmental laws and safety standards.
- Develop and implement waste management plans to minimize waste and promote recycling and reuse of materials.
- Maintain accurate records of waste generation, management, and disposal activities.
- Provide training and support to staff on hazardous waste management procedures and safety practices.
- Respond to emergency situations involving hazardous materials and coordinate with appropriate agencies.
- Assist in the development and review of company policies related to environmental health and safety.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
Seeking an experienced Hazardous Waste Specialist to manage and oversee the handling of hazardous materials in compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations. The ideal candidate will have proven expertise in hazardous waste management, including identification, handling, transportation, and disposal of various hazardous substances.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable with public speaking and training.
- Proficiency in the use of environmental monitoring and reporting software.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to safety and sustainability.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or related field.
- Certification in hazardous materials management (e.g., CHMM) strongly preferred.
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in hazardous waste management or a related field.
- Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations regarding hazardous waste.
- Experience with environmental monitoring and waste treatment technologies.
- Familiarity with health and safety standards in handling hazardous materials.
Responsibilities
- Inspect facilities and processes for compliance with hazardous waste regulations and best practices.
- Develop and implement hazardous waste policies and procedures to ensure environmental safety.
- Coordinate with government agencies to maintain compliance with all applicable environmental laws.
- Supervise and train waste handling staff to properly manage and dispose of hazardous materials.
- Respond to emergency situations involving hazardous waste and coordinate cleanup efforts.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of environmental regulations and advances in hazardous waste management.
- Prepare and submit required environmental reports and documentation to regulatory bodies.
- Conduct risk assessments and develop risk management strategies for hazardous waste operations.
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