Environmental Specialist 2

GAI Consultants is seeking an Environmental Specialist with experience in Permitting and Field Compliance to be based out of our Cranberry Township office, Pennsylvania, within our Energy Business Unit.  Applicants should enjoy working in a challenging, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment.  This position will afford an excellent opportunity for the individual to expand their experience and knowledge base in federal and state environmental regulations and methodologies primarily in Pennsylvania, but also with opportunities in West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, and other States.

The successful candidate will serve in an experienced role and perform, with minimal supervision, various assignments including, but not limited to those listed below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review and understand specifications, permits, permit conditions, permitting modifications, etc. for air and water quality projects on a local, state and federal level.
• Assist with environmental reporting and recordkeeping related to the items above and prepare and review periodic monitoring reports based upon field observations provided by others.
• Assist with the preparation of various environmental requests such as sound studies, wetland and stream delineation reports, and erosion and sediment control plans.
• Assist with erosion and sediment (E&S) control and stormwater plans associated with both site and linear construction Projects.
• Performing in-field assistance with E&S controls on various types of construction Projects (linear and site-based) while working independently.
• Agree and adhere to the Health and Safety requirements of GAI Consultants and GAI’s clients.

• Maintain QA/QC standards and adhere to the Quality Management System procedures of GAI Consultants and the quality procedures of GAI’s clients.

Qualifications
 

Required:
 

1. Minimum of an Associates (A.S.) degree from an accredited college with an environmental/science focus.
2. Approximately six to ten years of experience with environmental permitting, reporting, and recordkeeping related to air and water quality.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and technical writing ability.
4. Ability to utilize electronic location devices (such as a GPS) to collect data tied to a Project location.
5. Candidate must be proficient in using Microsoft (MS) Word, Excel, and MS Office applications and be familiar with report, database, and form completion through both MS Word applications (e.g., Access, SQL) and online programs.
6. A valid driver’s license along with ability to pass required screening to drive a GAI vehicle.
7. Must be flexible. Travel will be expected as part of this position. Ability to drive  distances of potentially 4-6+ hours round trip and with minimal overnight stays out of town being required.

Preferred:(Not required, but candidates that demonstrate one or more of these qualifications will be given preference)

1. A Bachelors (B.S.) degree from an accredited college with an environmental/science focus.
2. Ten plus years of demonstrated experience in environmental permitting, reporting, and recordkeeping.
3. Four or more years of demonstrated experience in environmental field compliance and reporting.
4. Previous experience performing sound level studies, including modeling, for clients.
5. Experience performing Environmental Due Diligence (Phase I ESAs) site assessments.
6. Experience with Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plans.
7. Knowledge of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations and permitting and familiarity with environmental agency E&S control guidelines and best management practice (BMP) designs, construction, and maintenance.  Consideration will be given to candidates that can demonstrate experience and comprehension of E&S control BMP concepts, designs, and maintenance requirements.
8. Past experience working with an environmental review agency (e.g. state or local conservation district) either for the agency or with the agency as a consultant or owner.
9. Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or GIS, particularly ArcGIS.

Physical Demands and/or Other Job Information:

• Ability to walk moderate distances through unimproved terrain, utility rights-of-way, in remote areas, etc.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
•  Ability to hear and visualize potential hazards during fieldwork or site visit situations.
• GAI Consultants prides itself on the quality of its employees and as such, candidates who receive a job offer will be required to successfully pass a drug screening.

General Characteristics

• Shows progress in critical thinking skills, works on small projects or portions of larger projects; assist Task Managers with aspects of projects; proactively implements Quality Management System (QMS) for project deliverables. 
• If assigned as direct supervisor, skilled at mentoring; Decision making and conflict resolution; Delegate tasks effectively; Demonstrate responsibility and leadership skills; role model for others to follow

Minimum Years of Experience

• 6+ Years Experience

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences or similar field of study

Certification/Licensure

• Driver’s License required

Technical Responsibilities

• Shows progress towards leading field studies and data collection; Generates well written, technically sound documents with little assistance from senior staff and requiring minor edits; Agency interface; Data analysis and interpretation; Acquires ability to research Federal, State, and local applicable environmental regulations and guidance and applies them to project specifics; extensive knowledge of wetland delineations; wetland restoration and wetland design; ecological field surveys; endangered species surveys (understand the requirements of the endangered species act, understand when and how to consult with these agencies, and have working knowledge of the species within the area we work), and duties as required; May become specialized within a specific discipline; receives technical training for career enhancement. 
• If assigned as direct supervisor manage and lead employees; Mentor and motivate; Communicate (including listening); Be available to employees; regular performance feedback; Enforce GAI policy and disseminate internal announcements; Foster teamwork and provide regular overall feedback to staff members. 

Project and Task Management

• Works as a part of a team and coordinates work with others. 
• Assists in determining schedule and budget requirements. 

Management Responsibility

• Assigning and overseeing tasks under the direct supervision of the task manager and maintaining budgets and schedules; keeping very close communication with Task Managers; assisting Project Managers or Task Manager with proposal preparation; scopes of work and project component cost estimates. 
• Guidance and oversight from Task Managers and Project Managers. 
• If assigned as a direct supervisor receives guidance and oversight from Business Managers and/or experts in specific environmental areas. 

Communication Skills

• Possess effective oral and written communication skills; interacts well with other staffs; interact with clients with close oversight, interacts closely with Project Managers and various Department Managerial Staff, performs well with client communications. 
• If assigned as direct supervisor, communication (focusing on listening) skills; interacts with employees and various managerial staff regarding employee performance, hiring, coordination with HR on performance issues of staff, merit increases, etc.; Keep employees informed of company news and policy changes. 

Why GAI?    

GAI offers skilled professionals like you an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy work location and scheduling flexibility; your choice of comprehensive, personalized benefits; a range of employee wellness programs and discounts; and more. Feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.    

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:    

Competitive Pay & Recognition  

• Market based, competitive compensation  

• Performance driven recognition and development bonuses  

Comprehensive Health & Wellness  

• Medical, dental, and vision plans  

• Company paid short-term and long-term disability  

• Company paid life insurance  

• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources  

Meaningful Work–Life Balance  

• Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays  

• An additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you  

• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave  

Growth, Learning & Financial Security  

• 401(k) with company match  

• Tuition reimbursement  

• Support and rewards for professional development and certifications