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Environmental Surveyor

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Environmental ScienceSurveyingComplianceFieldworkGeology

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively seeking a dedicated and methodical Environmental Surveyor to join our growing team. In this pivotal role, you will be the on-the-ground expert, responsible for conducting comprehensive environmental investigations and assessments. You'll be instrumental in bridging the gap between project development and environmental stewardship, ensuring our operations and client projects adhere to the highest standards of regulatory compliance and sustainability. This position requires a blend of rigorous fieldwork, meticulous data analysis, and clear technical reporting. If you are passionate about the environment and possess a keen eye for detail, we invite you to help us make a meaningful impact.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Environmental Field Technician
  • Geology or Environmental Science Graduate
  • Junior Environmental Scientist

Advancement To:

  • Senior Environmental Surveyor / Senior Scientist
  • Environmental Project Manager
  • Environmental Consultant

Lateral Moves:

  • GIS Analyst (Environmental Focus)
  • Regulatory Compliance Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) in strict accordance with ASTM E1527 standards, including historical records review, site reconnaissance, and interviews.
  • Execute Phase II ESAs, developing sampling plans and performing field investigations to assess the presence of contaminants in soil, groundwater, surface water, and soil vapor.
  • Perform comprehensive soil sampling campaigns, ensuring proper collection, preservation, and chain-of-custody documentation in line with EPA methodologies.
  • Collect groundwater samples using various techniques such as low-flow purging, bailing, and passive diffusion bag sampling, and accurately record field parameters.
  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate a wide range of environmental field equipment, including photoionization detectors (PIDs), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzers, water quality meters, and GPS units.
  • Oversee and direct drilling subcontractors during the installation of soil borings and groundwater monitoring wells, including logging soil stratigraphy and well construction details.
  • Prepare detailed and accurate field notes, site sketches, and photo documentation to support technical reports and regulatory submissions.
  • Author comprehensive technical reports, including Site Investigation Reports (SIRs), Remedial Investigation Reports (RIRs), and Remedial Action Work Plans (RAWPs).
  • Conduct wetland delineations and stream assessments according to US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and applicable state/local methodologies.
  • Perform threatened and endangered species habitat assessments and surveys to support ecological impact studies and permitting.
  • Conduct hazardous building material surveys, including asbestos-containing material (ACM), lead-based paint (LBP), and mold inspections.
  • Analyze and interpret geological, hydrogeological, and environmental chemistry data to develop conceptual site models (CSMs).
  • Ensure all fieldwork is conducted safely and in compliance with company-specific and OSHA Health and Safety Plans (HASPs).
  • Support permitting efforts by gathering necessary field data for applications related to land use, water discharge (NPDES), and air quality.
  • Perform stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) inspections and compliance monitoring at active construction sites.
  • Assist project managers with task management, budget tracking, and scheduling of field activities to ensure projects are completed on time and within scope.
  • Navigate and interpret complex federal, state, and local environmental regulations (e.g., CERCLA, RCRA, Clean Water Act) to guide site assessment strategies.
  • Participate in site remediation activities, including oversight of excavation, implementation of in-situ remedies, and post-remediation confirmation sampling.
  • Utilize GIS and CADD software to create site plans, depict sampling locations, and visualize contaminant plumes and geological features.
  • Communicate effectively with clients, regulatory agency representatives, and other stakeholders regarding project status and findings.

Secondary Functions

  • Support senior staff and project managers with the development of technical proposals and cost estimates.
  • Assist in maintaining and organizing project files, databases, and other critical project documentation.
  • Participate in internal safety meetings and contribute to the ongoing improvement of health and safety protocols.
  • Mentor and provide guidance to junior-level field technicians and new team members.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Phase I & II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs): Deep understanding and practical experience with ASTM standards.
  • Soil & Groundwater Sampling: Proficiency in various sampling techniques (e.g., low-flow, grab, composite) and methodologies.
  • Technical Report Writing: Ability to author clear, concise, and defensible scientific and technical reports for regulatory and client review.
  • GIS/GPS: Competency in using GPS units for field data collection and GIS software (like ArcGIS) for mapping and spatial analysis.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Working knowledge of key federal and state environmental laws (e.g., CERCLA, RCRA, state-specific cleanup programs).
  • Field Equipment Operation: Hands-on experience with PIDs, XRF analyzers, water quality sondes, and other common environmental monitoring tools.
  • HAZWOPER 40-Hour: Current certification is required for handling hazardous materials and working on contaminated sites.
  • Wetland Delineation: Experience with the 1987 USACE Manual and regional supplements for identifying wetland boundaries.
  • Geological/Hydrogeological Interpretation: Ability to log soil borings and interpret subsurface conditions.
  • Subcontractor Oversight: Experience managing and directing drilling, laboratory, and other third-party vendors.
  • Asbestos/Lead Inspection Certification: State-issued certifications for asbestos inspection or lead risk assessment are highly desirable.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Critical for accurate data collection, note-taking, and report preparation.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and adapt to unexpected field conditions or data anomalies.
  • Written & Verbal Communication: Capable of clearly conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences.
  • Independent Work Ethic: Motivated and able to manage time effectively while working alone in the field.
  • Team Collaboration: Ability to work constructively with project managers, technicians, and clients.
  • Physical Stamina: Capable of performing physically demanding fieldwork for extended periods in various weather 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
  • Biology or Ecology
  • Chemistry

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct experience in environmental consulting, fieldwork, and site assessment.

Preferred:

  • Experience working within a consulting firm environment on a diverse range of commercial and industrial projects.
  • Demonstrable experience with state-specific regulatory programs (e.g., NJDEP Site Remediation Program, NYSDEC BCP, PA Act 2).
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