Environmental Scientist

Position Overview:

The Environmental Scientist is responsible for performing a wide range of environmental field services, inspections, monitoring, sampling, and technical reporting activities in support of environmental compliance, investigation, and construction projects. Responsibilities may include stormwater inspections, groundwater monitoring, wastewater sampling, community air monitoring, bulk storage inspections, environmental site assessments, and preparation of technical reports and documentation.

The role requires strong attention to detail, technical accuracy, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently in both field and office environments. Environmental Scientists are expected to maintain compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations while providing professional communication with clients, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pre-Field Activities:

• Arrive prepared for scheduled field assignments and coordinate with project managers, clients, contractors, and site personnel.
• Review project scopes, health and safety requirements, sampling plans, permits, prior reports, and applicable regulations prior to field activities.
• Prepare and verify all required field equipment and supplies, which may include:
  • Sampling equipment and monitoring instruments.
  • Calibration gases and calibration equipment.
  • Air monitoring equipment and particulate monitors.
  • Groundwater monitoring equipment.
  • PPE and health and safety supplies.
  • Tablets, field forms, cameras, and chain of custody documentation.
• Verify that all monitoring and sampling equipment is calibrated and functioning properly before mobilization.

2. Environmental Field Services:

• Perform environmental inspections, monitoring, and sampling activities at construction sites, industrial facilities, commercial properties, municipal facilities, and remediation projects.
• Conduct stormwater inspections in accordance with SWPPP and SPDES permit requirements.
• Perform groundwater monitoring and sampling activities, including monitoring well gauging and sample collection.
• Conduct wastewater and process water sampling in accordance with approved protocols.
• Perform community air monitoring (CAMP), particulate monitoring, and VOC monitoring during construction and remediation activities.
• Conduct inspections of petroleum bulk storage systems, secondary containment areas, and environmental controls.
• Assist with Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) and Phase II ESA field activities.
• Document environmental conditions, deficiencies, and compliance concerns through detailed notes and photographs.
• Coordinate with contractors and site personnel regarding corrective actions and environmental compliance requirements.
• Maintain accurate field logs, inspection reports, calibration records, and chain of custody documentation.

3. Data Collection and Documentation:

• Record field observations, measurements, monitoring data, and sample information accurately and completely.
• Prepare field sketches, photo logs, sample tracking documentation, and inspection summaries.
• Ensure all environmental data and electronic files are properly organized and uploaded to designated project folders and databases.
• Review field documentation for completeness and quality prior to submission.
• Coordinate laboratory sample submissions and verify sample tracking and analytical reporting.

4. Environmental Reporting:

• Prepare technical reports, inspection summaries, environmental monitoring reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Assist with preparation of:
  • Stormwater inspection reports.
  • Groundwater monitoring reports.
  • Community air monitoring reports.
  • Spill documentation.
  • Environmental compliance reports.
  • Phase I and Phase II ESA reports.
  • Corrective action tracking documentation.
• Review laboratory analytical results and incorporate findings into technical reports.
• Support project managers with regulatory compliance documentation and client deliverables.

5. Health and Safety:

• Adhere to all company health and safety procedures and site-specific Health and Safety Plans (HASP).
• Properly utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, environmental concerns, spills, or regulatory issues immediately.
• Maintain awareness of environmental hazards and construction site safety requirements.
• Participate in required safety training and certifications.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Engineering, Environmental Studies, or related field preferred.
• Experience with environmental inspections, monitoring, sampling, or environmental compliance preferred.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations including NYSDEC, EPA, OSHA, SPDES, and related programs preferred.
• Strong technical writing and report preparation skills.
• Ability to use environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, tablets, and electronic data collection systems.
• OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification preferred.
• Erosion and Sediment Control certification preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Working Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Additional early morning, evening, overtime, or weekend work may be required based on project schedules, emergency response activities, or field conditions.
• Field assignments may require travel throughout New York State and surrounding regions.