Solid & Hazardous Waste Inspector

Job Description

Are you environmentally conscious and looking for a meaningful way to contribute to your community? Look no further than the Pinellas County Solid Waste department!

Why Us?

As an Environmental Specialist 1, you’ll play a vital role in supporting our efforts to create a cleaner, greener future. By joining us, you’ll get to be a part of a mission-driven team working towards a sustainable future for Pinellas County. Apply today and be a part of this important initiative!

What Would You Do?

  • Conduct unannounced inspections of various types of businesses.
  • Identify conditions, as applicable, that pose an immediate threat to human health and/or the environment and report those findings to the necessary response agencies.
  • Document inspection findings into database; create report and conduct necessary follow-up.
  • Conduct follow-up site visits, as applicable, to verify return to compliance activities.
  • Investigate complaints from citizens or other County departments and/or other agencies.
  • Provide applicable educational materials and resources to businesses, as necessary, to assist them in compliance either during or following an inspection.
  • Maintain working knowledge of federal and state solid and hazardous waste regulations, hazardous materials, and County and State recycling programs and materials processing through continuous reading, research, and application.
  • Perform related work as assigned or required.

What Do You Need to Have?

Experience – practical application of solid and hazardous waste regulations (can include knowledge and experience gained through school projects, internships, and/or employment).

Education – major course work in environmental, physical, natural, or biological science or related field.

  • At least 5 years of experience as described above; or
  • An associate degree as described above and at least 3 years of experience as described above; or
  • A bachelor’s degree as described above and at least 1 year of experience as described above; or
  • A master’s degree or higher as described above.

Additional Requirements

  • Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Driver’s License upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report.
  • Possession of OSHA 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operator and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification within 12 months of hire.
  • Possession of North American Hazardous Materials Management Association (NAHMMA) SQG New Inspector certification within 12-24 months of hire.

Highly Desirable

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher with major course work in environmental, physical, natural, or biological science or related field is preferred.
  • Working knowledge of environmental studies and state legislation regarding solid and hazardous waste management.
  • Skilled in customer service.
  • Proven experience with presentations and public speaking.

What Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities should I have?

  • Knowledge of and basic understanding of biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State, and local regulations regarding solid and hazardous waste management.
  • Knowledge of waste reduction and diversion techniques.
  • Skill in the use of computers including Microsoft Office, SharePoint, databases, and asset management software.
  • Ability to create and deliver educational presentations to the public and peers.
  • Ability to research industries, processes, products, and materials.
  • Ability to review documents regarding storage and disposal of various products and wastes.
  • Ability to interact with the public during unannounced site inspections.

Why choose Pinellas County?

Our benefits rank among the top in the area!

We are dedicated to offering employees a multitude of comprehensive and competitive benefits including, but not limited to:

  • Medical coverage at a low cost
  • Benefits package includes health, vision, prescription, dental, life insurance, disability, and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
  • Florida Retirement System (FRS)
  • Generous leave time
  • Wellness Program: access to county gyms 24/7
  • Deferred compensation plans
  • To learn more, see What We Offer

Want to learn more?

Review the full classification description with the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities, Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link.

Environmental Specialist 1