Environmental Program Officer

Environmental Programs Officer

University Research Services & Administration (URSA)

Georgia State University

Office of Research and Environmental Safety (ORES)

Introduction to the Department

Georgia State University has been one of the fastest growing research universities in the nation over the past decade. The Office of Research and Environmental Safety (ORES) at Georgia State University is dedicated to supporting research and instructional laboratories, animal facilities, and environmental programs to ensure regulatory compliance, guidance, and best practices for the health and safety of our campuses and surrounding community. We strive to create an environment that fosters excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

The oversight and management of the Environmental Programs Office and its staff and programs is key to compliance with environmental laws for the University. 

ORES seeking an dedicated and experienced Environmental Programs Officer.

WHAT MAKES ORES GREAT PLACE? 

•  A flexible work environment.         

• Generous benefits, including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, etc.         

• A knowledge-sharing organization that works collaboratively with diverse partners.

•  Professional development opportunities and mentorship.

• A rapidly growing research portfolio.

   

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL DO 

The essential duties and responsibilities of the Environmental Programs Officer are the following: 

• Manages and administers university environmental compliance programs, including universal waste, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), asbestos, lead-based paint, underground storage tanks (USTs), air emissions permitting and reporting, spill prevention and countermeasures, and related environmental programs. Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, permits, and university policies.

• Reviews construction plans, renovation projects, and related documents for environmental compliance; provides recommendations and assists Facilities Management and Facilities Planning personnel in implementation. Coordinates environmental reviews for projects involving asbestos, lead-based paint, air permitting, underground storage tanks, hazardous materials, and waste management.

• Responds immediately to hazardous materials incidents and emergencies, including spills, releases, and regulatory compliance events. Coordinates the release response, investigation, and notification to regulatory authorities. Evaluates University emergencies and incidents and institutes the appropriate notification to faculty, staff, and administration.

• Represents university administration and serves as the primary liaison with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies, environmental consultants, contractors, waste vendors, and other stakeholders. Provides technical expertise and compliance guidance regarding environmental regulations, permits, inspections, and enforcement matters.

• Provides oversight and technical consultation for industrial hygiene and environmental sampling activities, including asbestos, lead, air quality, contamination assessments, and other environmental monitoring projects. Reviews findings and recommends corrective actions as necessary.

• May supervise office staff and oversee office functions and creates purchase orders and processes invoices associated with environmental programs, projects, permits, sampling, remediation activities, contractor services, and/or facilities-related operations. Manage contracts and contractors for hazardous waste-related projects.

• Develops, maintains, and submits environmental records, permits, and regulatory reports, including emissions inventories, permit applications, and waste manifests. Maintains environmental program records in accordance with regulatory retention requirements.

• Interprets, analyzes, and communicates environmental regulatory requirements and emerging compliance issues. Educates the university community on existing and pending federal, state, and local environmental laws, regulations, policies, and best practices; develops and maintains environmental compliance and preparedness strategies. Develops and conducts environmental programs, safety, and compliance education and training programs for faculty, staff, facilities personnel, project managers, and contractors.

Minimum Requirements: 

•   Bachelor’s degree in Physical or Environmental Sciences and four years of related experience; or a combination of training and experience. Proof of completion of 40-hour HAZWOPER and 8-hour DOT Hazmat trainings.

Preferred Hiring Requirements: 

• Certification by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Managers, American Board of Industrial Hygiene and/or Board of Certified Safety Professionals (CHMM, CIH, ASP, CSP) preferred.  Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Inspector and Supervisor certification preferred. Knowledge of the Clean Air Act, Underground Storage Tanks, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 , and Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Ability to respond to incidents and emergencies involving hazardous materials using proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

Special Instructions: 

To be fully considered for this position all candidates must submit the following at the time of submission:  

•  A complete and accurate GSU application    

• Resume 

• Cover Letter       

• Three professional reference names and contact information