Hazardous Waste Handler
A Hazardous Waste Handler is responsible for the safe collection, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials, complying with regulations and ensuring environmental safety.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Hazardous Waste Handler
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 Handler, you will be responsible for the collection, transportation, and disposal of various hazardous materials in compliance with government and environmental regulations. You will work to ensure that all hazardous materials are handled safely, reducing risks to health and the environment.
Required Skills
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow complex instructions.
- Effective communication skills for interfacing with coworkers and regulatory bodies.
- Basic problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
- Flexibility to adapt to changing situations and different types of hazardous materials.
- Knowledge of proper PPE usage and safety measures for hazardous waste handling.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Completion of a hazardous materials handling course or a willingness to undergo training.
- Ability to perform physical tasks and lift weights of up to 50 lbs.
- Basic understanding of health and safety regulations related to hazardous waste management.
- Must pass a background check and have a clean driving record if job requires operation of a vehicle.
Responsibilities
- Collect and transport hazardous materials from various locations in a safe and compliant manner.
- Label and prepare hazardous waste for transportation according to local, state, and federal regulations.
- Operate equipment necessary for the handling and transportation of hazardous waste.
- Maintain accurate records of waste handling activities, including manifests, logs, and reports.
- Inspect and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools required for the safe handling of hazardous materials.
- Participate in regular safety meetings and training sessions to stay informed about the latest industry practices and regulations.
- Respond to emergency situations involving hazardous materials spills or exposures.
- Coordinate with facility managers and environmental health and safety personnel to ensure compliance with waste management plans.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Hazardous Waste Handler is responsible for the safe handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This role requires a keen attention to safety protocols and environmental policies to ensure the protection of health and the environment.
Required Skills
- Strong attention to detail and understanding of safety protocols.
- Good communication and record-keeping skills.
- Familiarity with Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standards.
- Ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
- Competence in using tools and equipment for handling hazardous materials.
- Teamwork and collaboration capabilities.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent; higher education in environmental science or related field preferred.
- Valid certification in hazardous materials handling or similar credentials.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role dealing with hazardous materials.
- Knowledge of state and federal waste management and safety regulations.
- Ability to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and operate safety equipment.
- Physical fitness to perform manual labor duties as required.
Responsibilities
- Identify, label, and sort hazardous waste materials according to regulatory guidelines.
- Operate equipment necessary for the handling and transportation of hazardous waste.
- Maintain accurate records of waste handling activities and ensure proper documentation for regulatory compliance.
- Monitor and report any incidents or irregularities in waste handling to the appropriate authorities.
- Participate in emergency response drills and actual emergencies involving hazardous materials.
- Ensure the maintenance and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety gear.
- Carry out routine inspections of storage areas and containers to prevent leaks or other hazards.
- Stay updated with current waste management laws and environmental safety standards.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A Senior Hazardous Waste Handler is responsible for the safe and compliant management, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste materials. This role requires adherence to environmental and safety regulations at all times to prevent contamination and ensure the protection of health and the environment.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Proven ability to work independently and make informed decisions under pressure
- Experience in using protective and emergency response equipment
- Strong communication skills for working with regulatory authorities and team members
- Ability to conduct training sessions on hazardous waste handling procedures
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry or related field
- 5+ years of experience in hazardous waste management or related field
- Certification in hazardous material handling (e.g., HAZWOPER)
- In-depth knowledge of EPA and OSHA regulations related to hazardous waste
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record for waste transportation purposes
Responsibilities
- Safe handling and transportation of hazardous waste following legal and company guidelines
- Labeling and documenting hazardous materials accurately for disposal or treatment
- Maintaining records of waste management activities and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations
- Inspecting and maintaining equipment used in the handling of hazardous waste
- Developing and implementing safety procedures for the management of hazardous materials
- Providing training and guidance to junior staff on proper hazardous waste handling techniques
- Coordinating with environmental health and safety teams to conduct risk assessments
- Responding to and containing spills or environmental contamination incidents
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