Environmental Scientist

Job Title: Senior Environmental ScientistJob Description

The Senior Environmental Scientist leads Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and remediation projects from initial due diligence through final reporting, while mentoring junior staff and serving as a key technical resource on Illinois EPA SRP and LUST programs. This role combines advanced field and office-based environmental work with client communication and project oversight across residential, solar, and commercial sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead Phase I ESA projects from start to finish, including planning, site reconnaissance, data collection, analysis, and preparation of final reports.
• Oversee and review technical reports prepared by junior staff, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
• Provide mentorship, coaching, and day-to-day training to 13 junior team members to support their professional development and project performance.
• Communicate proactively with clients throughout the project lifecycle, providing updates, explaining findings, and addressing questions or concerns.
• Assist with Phase II ESAs, including soil sampling, data interpretation, and preparation of characterization documentation for disposal using LPC-663 forms or Subtitle D profiling.
• Support and guide remediation activities, including construction oversight, coordination with contractors, and verification of remediation effectiveness.
• Utilize extensive knowledge of Illinois EPA Site Remediation Program (SRP) and Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) programs to guide sites through regulatory processes and requirements.
• Keep key stakeholders engaged and informed on project status, findings, risks, and recommended actions.
• Manage and oversee 45+ concurrent projects, balancing schedules, resources, and deliverables while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Prepare clear, comprehensive technical reports and due diligence documentation for a variety of project types, including residential, solar, and commercial properties.
• Review and critique environmental reports prepared by others, providing constructive feedback and ensuring consistency with internal quality standards.
• Coordinate office-based work and site visits, including scheduling, logistics, and use of company or personal vehicles as appropriate.
• Apply environmental science and geology principles to evaluate site conditions, identify potential environmental concerns, and recommend appropriate next steps.
• Maintain compliance with health and safety requirements, including adherence to 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER standards when on site.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment of approximately seven environmental professionals, sharing knowledge and supporting team goals.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10+ years of environmental remediation and due diligence experience, with a strong focus on Phase I ESAs.
• Deep, practical experience conducting Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, including fieldwork and report preparation.
• Experience supporting Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, including soil sampling and data evaluation.
• Strong technical report writing skills, with the ability to produce clear, detailed, and accurate environmental reports.
• Proven experience reviewing and quality-checking environmental reports prepared by others.
• Thorough knowledge and hands-on experience with Illinois EPA Site Remediation Program (SRP) and Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) programs.
• Background in environmental science and remediation, including soil sampling, construction oversight, and related field activities.
• Valid drivers license and reliable vehicle for travel to project sites when needed.
• Completion of 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER training or the ability to renew or obtain this certification.
• Personable, collaborative approach with a strong desire to learn and share knowledge with others.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working on environmental projects across residential, solar, and commercial properties.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee multiple projects (45+ at a time) and manage them from initiation through completion.
• Comfort with both office-based analytical work and on-site field activities, including construction oversight and soil sampling.
• Ability to mentor and supervise junior staff, providing guidance on technical tasks and professional growth.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective interaction with clients, stakeholders, and team members.
• Ability to interpret and apply state regulatory requirements, particularly those related to SRP and LUST programs.
• Organized and detail-oriented work style, with a commitment to delivering high-quality, timely project outcomes.

Work Environment

The Senior Environmental Scientist works within an established environmental department of approximately seven team members, overseeing several projects at once and serving as a technical leader in the Phase I ESA space. The role is primarily office-based, with about 90% of time spent in the office performing analysis, report writing, project coordination, and mentoring junior staff, and the remaining time spent on site conducting fieldwork and oversight. Site work may vary by project type and season and typically involves visits to residential, solar, and commercial properties. A company vehicle is available for days spent on site, and mileage reimbursement is provided when using a personal vehicle. The culture combines the resources of a corporate environment with a close-knit, family-business feel, emphasizing strong relationships, low-pressure project delivery, and flexibility in start and end times when needed. The organization is employee-owned and offers stock incentives, contributing to a sense of shared ownership and long-term commitment. Dress is generally professional and appropriate for an office setting, with practical field attire required for site visits.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Carol Stream, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $43.26 - $55.28/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Carol Stream, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 9, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Carol Stream,IL.

About Actalent

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If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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