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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Environmental Field Analyst

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Environmental ScienceField ServicesData AnalysisCompliance & RegulationGeology

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Field Analyst to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will be the backbone of our environmental assessment and remediation projects, spending significant time in the field to collect and interpret crucial data. You'll be responsible for executing field sampling plans, operating and maintaining sophisticated monitoring equipment, and documenting site conditions with precision. This position is perfect for an individual who thrives in outdoor environments, possesses strong analytical skills, and is committed to upholding the highest standards of environmental safety and regulatory compliance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Environmental Technician
  • Recent Graduate (Environmental Science, Geology, Biology)
  • Laboratory Analyst

Advancement To:

  • Senior Environmental Analyst
  • Environmental Project Manager
  • Lead Environmental Scientist
  • Task Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • GIS Analyst
  • Environmental Compliance Specialist
  • Health and Safety (EHS) Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct extensive fieldwork, including the collection of soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, and air samples following strict protocols and project-specific sampling and analysis plans (SAPs).
  • Perform Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) to identify potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities, involving historical research and on-site reconnaissance.
  • Operate, calibrate, and maintain a variety of environmental field monitoring and sampling equipment, such as photoionization detectors (PIDs), multi-gas meters, water quality meters, and GPS units.
  • Oversee drilling and monitoring well installation activities, including soil logging using classification systems like the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and Munsell Soil Color Chart.
  • Accurately document all field activities, observations, and data on field forms, in logbooks, and through digital data collection applications with a high degree of precision.
  • Supervise and direct subcontractors during field activities, such as drilling, excavation, and remediation system installation, ensuring work is completed safely and according to specifications.
  • Analyze and interpret field data and laboratory analytical results to identify trends, draw conclusions, and support the development of conceptual site models (CSMs).
  • Prepare detailed and accurate technical reports, summary letters, and data deliverable packages for review by project managers and submission to clients and regulatory agencies.
  • Assist in the development of project work plans, health and safety plans (HASPs), and sampling and analysis plans (SAPs) under the guidance of senior staff.
  • Conduct site inspections and environmental compliance audits to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., RCRA, CERCLA, CWA).
  • Participate in and lead daily health and safety tailgate meetings to promote a strong safety culture and ensure all field personnel are aware of site-specific hazards.
  • Utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to create site maps, visualize sample locations, and analyze spatial data related to environmental investigations.
  • Manage and tabulate large environmental datasets using software such as Microsoft Excel, Access, or specialized environmental data management systems (e.g., EQuIS).
  • Perform aquifer testing (e.g., slug tests, pump tests) to evaluate hydrogeologic properties and support groundwater modeling and remediation design.
  • Conduct building material surveys for hazardous materials like asbestos, lead-based paint, and PCBs prior to demolition or renovation activities.
  • Support the design and implementation of in-situ and ex-situ remediation systems for contaminated soil and groundwater.
  • Coordinate with analytical laboratories to ensure proper sample chain of custody, timely delivery, and adherence to required analytical methods and holding times.
  • Perform storm water pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) inspections and monitoring to ensure compliance with NPDES permits.
  • Assist with data validation and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) review of laboratory reports to ensure data is defensible.
  • Communicate effectively with project managers, clients, and regulatory agents regarding field observations, progress, and potential issues.
  • Evaluate and characterize waste streams for proper disposal, including profiling and preparing manifests in accordance with DOT and EPA regulations.
  • Perform soil vapor and sub-slab vapor intrusion sampling to assess potential risks to indoor air quality in overlying buildings.

Secondary Functions

  • Support project managers with budget tracking, task scheduling, and coordination of field logistics.
  • Contribute to the preparation of proposals and cost estimates for new environmental investigation and remediation projects.
  • Maintain and manage inventory of field supplies and equipment, ensuring everything is in proper working order and calibrated.
  • Participate in professional development and training to stay current with industry best practices and safety standards, such as maintaining 40-hour HAZWOPER certification.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency in soil, groundwater, and air sampling techniques and methodologies.
  • Experience with environmental field instruments (PID, FID, multi-gas meters, water quality sondes).
  • Knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations (e.g., RCRA, CERCLA, CWA, NEPA).
  • Familiarity with Phase I & Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) processes per ASTM standards.
  • Strong technical writing skills for preparing reports, work plans, and correspondence.
  • Competency in environmental data management software (e.g., EQuIS, LogPlot) and MS Office Suite (especially Excel).
  • Experience with soil logging and classification using systems like USCS.
  • Basic to intermediate skills in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) for mapping and spatial analysis.
  • Current 40-hour HAZWOPER certification and a deep understanding of site health and safety protocols.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents, site plans, and geological maps.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, especially when encountering unexpected field conditions.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with team members, clients, and regulators.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in remote field settings.
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration skills to effectively work within a project team.
  • Physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • Adaptability and a positive attitude when faced with changing project priorities or field conditions.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree (B.S. or B.A.)

Preferred Education:

  • Master's Degree (M.S.)

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Environmental Science
  • Geology
  • Hydrogeology
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Ecology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-5 years of relevant professional experience.

Preferred: Experience directly related to environmental consulting, including fieldwork for site investigation and remediation. Experience with drilling oversight, well installation, and various sampling methods is highly desirable.

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