Our client is America’s premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and South Dakota and at locations around the world, including Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, and the South Pole.

The lab is seeking a highly motivated Chemical Waste Management Technician to join the Hazard Control Technology Team (HCTT). Under general supervision, the selected candidate will support the chemical waste program through completion of both field and programmatic responsibilities ensuring compliance with federal and local regulations, Department of Energy (DOE) orders, and Fermilab policies and procedures. 

You Will

• Ensure compliance with and stay current on applicable USEPA, IEPA, DOT, and DOE regulations and requirements

• Provide guidance and support to employees on chemical waste management including waste pickups, cleanup, sampling, chemical use, characterization, labeling, and packaging

• Sample chemical waste for analysis

• Complete chemical waste profiles 

• Enter data into various team databases

• Assist with scheduling contractors for various services including chemical waste shipments, equipment calibration, and parts washer servicing

• Assist in the development and maintenance of the annual Hazardous Waste Report and HCTT plans, policies, and procedures

• Participate in internal and external RCRA inspections

• Assist in the development and review of waste training

• Assist in presenting the annual emergency responder training

• Assist with radioactive waste pickups, sampling, processing, and shipments as needed

• Maintain supplies for waste storage buildings

• Utilize various tools such as manual drum handling equipment and small hand and power tools

• Perform various field operations such as:

  • Survey dumpster for radioactive and unauthorized materials

  • Weekly and monthly inspection of waste storage facilities

  • Chemical and radioactive waste pickups in potentially harsh environments

  • Chemical and radioactive waste shipments

  • Emergency response of hazardous material spills

• Abide by and be responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position

• Other duties as assigned

We Are Looking For

• Associates Degree in an environmental science or relevant discipline or High school diploma with 3+ years of related experience in chemical or radioactive waste management

• Experience in the transportation, handling, and packaging of chemical or radioactive waste desired

• Must possess exceptional attention to detail for work activities and documentation

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Working knowledge of USEPA, IEPA, DOT, and/or OSHA regulations

• Possess a valid state driver’s license

• Ability to work well in a team atmosphere

• Ability to recognize hazardous situations and recommend corrective actions

• Ability to use Microsoft Office and Oracle or an equivalent database management system

• 40-hour HAZWOPER trained desired

• Department of Transportation trained desired

• RCRA trained desired

• Knowledge of DOE orders desired

• Radiological training a plus

Relocation is not available for this position.

Physical Activity and Work Conditions

HUMAN FACTORS: Heavy Lifting, Heights, Mental Concentration, Repetitive Motion, Sitting, Standing, Tight Work Schedule, Vibrating Equipment, Visually Demanding, Work Outdoors

CHEMICAL FACTORS: Acid/Bases, Asbestos, Chemicals, Combustion Engines, Cyanide, Dust, Epoxies, Fumes, Hydrofluoric Acid, Lead, PCBs, Pesticides, Phenol, Solvents

PHYSICAL FACTORS: Confined Space, Environment: Cold, Dry, Hot and Wet, High Noise Level, Ionizing Radiation, Oxygen Deficiency Hazard

BIOLOGICAL FACTORS: Animals, Blood Borne Pathogens, Hearing Protection, Inspects, Poisonous Plants