Environmental Scientist

JOB TITLE: Environmental Scientist

EMPLOYER: RIRRC

DEPARTMENT: Engineering

REPORTS TO: Senior Project and Infrastructure Systems Manager

SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Senior Project and Infrastructure Systems Manager, collect water samples from raw, semi-processed, or processed water, wastewater, or water from other sources to assess potential pollution problems. Install, set up and maintain data collection instrumentation and equipment to collect pollutants from sites and perform air sampling. Operate light equipment including, but not limited to pumps, vacuum, generators, etc. Perform data entry with results from analytical reports. Conduct research to identify and eliminate pollutants or hazards affecting the environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Leaf and Yard Waste Compost – Responsible for monitoring RIRRC’s compost program, including monitoring of windrows and maturity testing.
• Generates theories or methods of pollution control or reduction.
• Prepare oral briefings and documents to communicate scientific and technical information.
• Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) — sample collection of water, air, leachate and gas, capable of interpreting data, identifying trends, and recommending remedial measures as needed, to ensure compliance with existing permits.
• Turbidity, Erosion, and Sediment Monitoring—Conduct inspections and reporting of landfill facility in accordance with approved Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program as required by permit.
• Provide guidance and direction as needed for remedial repairs.
• RIPDES Monitoring Program - Responsible for sampling in accordance with the facility’s RIPDES storm water permit.
• Analyzes sources of pollution and determines effects on the environment.
• Leachate Pretreatment Facility and Leachate Collection System - Monitor gauges, meters and control panels. Operate valves, start and stop pumps to control and adjust flow and treatment processes.
• Perform routine maintenance on all system equipment and custodial duties and related duties as required.
• Database management – Ability to utilize access databases to enter, analyze and report collected data.
• Assist in the tracking of compliance with internal and external environmental permits.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree from a two-year college or technical school, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Must have excellent reading comprehension skills, in order to understand work-related documents.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
• Experienced using multiparameter meter, peristaltic pump, VOC meter, Landtec Gas Monitor, Air Sampling Canister, Turbidimeter, etc. preferred.
• Possess strong listening, speaking and interpersonal skills. Must be able to convey information factually and clearly to the engineering team.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to recognize and identify potential problems.
• Logical thinking and analysis skills to detect and correct errors.
• Intermediate math skills, including decimals, fractions, performing calculations such as percentages and ratios.
• Able to be on call and on a rotating on call system. Must be able to respond to alarm calls within 30 minutes.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

COMPETENCIES:

• Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
• Business Acumen - Understands business implications of decisions; Displays orientation to profitability; Demonstrates knowledge of market and competition; Aligns work with strategic goals.
• Initiative - Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent actions and calculated risks; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed.
• Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
• Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
• Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Regularly perform work outdoors with exposure to a variety of weather conditions, odors, dust, and dirt. Must be able to lift/move/carry up to 50 lbs. Must be able to remain standing/walking at least 75% of time. Climbing and sitting comprise about 10% each of workday. Lifting and pushing/pulling comprises about 75% of workday.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.