Hazardous Waste Disposal Technician
Hazardous Waste Disposal Technicians are responsible for the handling, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Hazardous Waste Disposal Technician
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
As a Hazardous Waste Disposal Technician, you will be responsible for the safe handling and proper disposal of hazardous materials. This entry-level position requires strict adherence to environmental regulations and safety guidelines to prevent contamination and ensure public health.
Required Skills
- Attention to detail and a strong commitment to safety
- Basic knowledge of hazardous materials handling and disposal techniques
- Effective communication and documentation skills
- Ability to work in a team and follow directions
- Capability to use personal protective equipment and handling devices
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a relevant technical training program is a plus
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening
- Basic understanding of EPA and OSHA regulations
- Physical ability to handle and transport hazardous waste materials
Responsibilities
- Identify, label, and sort hazardous waste materials according to regulatory guidelines
- Operate vehicles and equipment for the transportation of hazardous materials
- Maintain accurate records of waste storage, transportation, and disposal
- Perform routine inspection of storage areas and containers for leaks or damage
- Assist in the preparation and execution of spill response plans
- Coordinate with environmental agencies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
- Participate in ongoing training and safety meetings to stay updated on industry practices and regulations
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Hazardous Waste Disposal Technician will be responsible for the safe handling, transportation, and disposal of various types of hazardous waste materials. Working in potentially high-risk environments, the technician must ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations while maintaining the utmost safety standards.
Required Skills
- Strong understanding of hazardous materials and waste disposal techniques.
- Ability to work with personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow strict safety protocols.
- Proficient in the use of waste disposal equipment and tools.
- Excellent communication and training skills.
- Detail-oriented with strong record-keeping abilities.
- Capability to respond effectively to emergencies.
- Physical fitness to handle manual labor tasks involved in waste disposal.
Qualifications
- Associate's degree in environmental science, chemistry, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience in hazardous waste management or a related industry.
- Valid state-specific hazardous materials endorsement (HME).
- Familiarity with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and other relevant regulations.
Responsibilities
- Identify, classify, and sort hazardous waste materials according to regulatory guidelines.
- Pack, label, and transport hazardous waste following established safety procedures.
- Operate and maintain equipment used for waste treatment and disposal.
- Conduct routine inspections of waste storage areas to ensure environmental compliance.
- Respond to emergency spill situations and execute cleanup protocols efficiently.
- Update and maintain accurate waste disposal records for regulatory reporting and audits.
- Train new staff in safe waste handling and disposal procedures.
- Stay current with all regulatory changes relevant to hazardous waste management.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A senior hazardous waste disposal technician is responsible for the safe collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials. They ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and often supervise teams to effectively handle toxic substances while minimizing risks to health and the environment.
Required Skills
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- In-depth knowledge of hazardous materials and waste disposal methods.
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in using waste tracking and compliance software.
- Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
- Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, safety management, or a related field.
- Certification in hazardous materials management (e.g., HAZWOPER).
- Extensive knowledge of EPA and OSHA regulations pertaining to hazardous waste.
- Experience with hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF).
- Proven ability to lead and supervise teams in a high-risk environment.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate the activities of waste disposal teams.
- Implement and monitor hazardous waste management policies and procedures.
- Ensure that all hazardous waste is correctly classified, labeled, and stored prior to disposal.
- Conduct inspections and audits of facilities handling hazardous materials.
- Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the handling and disposal of toxic substances.
- Train junior technicians and other personnel on proper disposal methods and safety protocols.
- Maintain accurate records of hazardous waste management activities.
- Develop contingency plans for emergency response to environmental accidents or spills.
- Coordinate with environmental scientists, public health officials, and other stakeholders on waste disposal matters.
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