Sr. Environmental Specialist

Under the general supervision of the Manager of Environmental Engineering within Facilities Operations, and working independently with numerous University departments, the Environmental Specialist will support a variety of projects and campus-wide regulatory compliance programs across the University.  Responsibilities include determining appropriate sampling approaches for environmental characterization, coordination of sampling and remediation activities with Project Managers and buildings trades, collecting bulk samples, and management of environmental data for Facilities Operations. This is a new position within Civil & Environmental Engineering to reduce reliance on external consultant services; accordingly, the successful candidate will exercise professional judgment and assist in further refining and expanding the responsibilities of this role.

Bulk Environmental Sampling 

• Respond to requests from customers within Princeton University (Facilities Operations trades, Office of Capital Projects, Environmental Health & Safety department, etc.) to collect bulk environmental samples. Sample requests may include asbestos bulk characterization, lead-based paint / lead dust, soil, water, or other environmental matrices. Independently determine appropriate sampling methodologies; schedule sampling efforts with impacted parties, coordinate sample analysis with off-campus labs.

Coordination of Environmental Sampling & Remediation Efforts 

• For any environmental sampling requests that cannot be managed internally (e.g., regulatory requirements, scope complexity, scale, etc.), and for any sampling where remediation is deemed necessary, lead the coordination of activities with third-party suppliers. Facilitate the procurement of environmental consultants and abatement contractors, submit contract requests, and coordinate meetings between suppliers and internal project managers; and monitor contractor performance, schedule adherence, and general compliance with University requirements

Environmental Program Support 

Support programmatic and compliance-related activities within the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, including:

• Stormwater Management: Data collection, inspection, and reporting activities performed in support of institutional compliance and planning requirements. Assist with the design and implementation of new stormwater management features.
• Radon: Inspection and reporting activities, coordinate maintenance and repair activities with trades or third-party suppliers; and maintain documentation supporting ongoing program oversight
• Lead-Based Paint: Lead the coordination of activities with regulatory consultants, Princeton’s Office of Housing and Real Estate Services, and third-party suppliers in compliance with municipal lead-paint regulations, including timely reporting to local health departments.

Environmental Data Management 

• Ensure appropriate logging of environmental data generated through bulk sampling or other data-generating efforts. Update the Facilities Operations work order tracking system with relevant information, including sampling costs, schedule details, and sample request status; and maintain organized environmental records used to support operational decision-making, audits, and regulatory inquiries.

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering discipline and a minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible experience with the design and implementation of environmental bulk characterization sampling events.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with colleagues throughout all levels of the University. Committed to the beliefs of customer service/satisfaction, quality control, high personal standards/ethics, and inclusion
• Ability to successfully handle multiple tasks at once and determine appropriate priorities using independent judgment.
• Must have a valid, permanent driver’s license, issued by a continuous U.S. State

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a higher education residential campus setting
• Relevant New Jersey licensure/certifications, or the ability to obtain in a timely manner
• Experienced in the use of a computerized maintenance management software program (e.g., Maximo or PlanOn)
• Safety Training – OSHA 10 or 40-hour HAZWOPER certification
• Lead Inspector / Risk Assessor
• Experience coordinating or overseeing environmental consultants or contractors

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to climb ladders and have physical dexterity to climb into tight, awkward, restricted areas and around obstacles.
• Must be able to carry up to 40 lbs.
• May be required to wear a respirator and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.