Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas Career Overview
As a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker, you play a vital role in the environmental protection and restoration industry. Your responsibilities center around identifying, managing, and mitigating the effects of hazardous materials on contaminated sites. This role is particularly significant as it directly contributes to public health and environmental safety.
Key aspects of your job include:
Site Assessment: You are involved in evaluating sites for contamination, understanding the extent of environmental damage, and determining the safety risks associated with hazardous substances.
Remediation Activities: You will participate in various remediation methods, such as soil excavation, groundwater treatment, or the application of bioremediation techniques to remove pollutants and restore the land.
Compliance with Regulations: Understanding and adhering to environmental laws and guidelines is fundamental. You ensure that remediation efforts meet local, state, and federal regulatory standards.
Safety Protocols: Your role emphasizes worker safety and environmental protection. You implement safety measures to ensure that the remediation process does not pose additional risks to workers or the surrounding community.
Collaboration: You often work with a team of environmental scientists, engineers, and regulatory agencies, coordinating efforts to develop effective clean-up strategies and solutions.
Your efforts help rehabilitate contaminated sites, restoring them for safe use and supporting broader community health and sustainability objectives. This career requires you to be diligent and detail-oriented, as the consequences of contamination can have long-term effects on both ecosystems and human populations.
Contaminated Site Remediation Worker Salary in Kansas
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas
To become a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas, you are typically required to obtain relevant educational qualifications and training. The following programs can prepare you for this career path:
Environmental Science: A degree in Environmental Science equips you with a broad understanding of environmental issues, pollution, and sustainable practices. This program often includes coursework in ecology, chemistry, and environmental policy.
Environmental Engineering: This degree focuses on the application of engineering principles to improve and maintain the environment. You will study topics such as water and air quality, waste management, and remediation technologies.
Environmental Health Engineering: This program combines principles of environmental science and engineering, emphasizing public health as it relates to environmental factors. You will learn about the health effects of contaminants and methods for controlling exposure.
Soil Science and Agronomy: A degree in Soil Science and Agronomy covers various aspects of soil health, management, and conservation. This knowledge is vital for assessing contamination in soil and developing remediation strategies.
Soil Sciences: This discipline focuses specifically on the study of soil as a natural resource. A degree in Soil Sciences includes understanding soil composition, behavior, and the impact of various contaminants on soil health.
In addition to these degree programs, hands-on training and internships during your studies can provide valuable experience in fieldwork and remediation processes.
Best Schools to become a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
American Public University System
Oregon State University
Ohio State University-Main Campus
University of South Florida
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Identify, remove, pack, transport, or dispose of hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead-based paint, waste oil, fuel, transmission fluid, radioactive materials, or contaminated soil.
- Specialized training and certification in hazardous materials handling or a confined entry permit are generally required.
- May operate earth-moving equipment or trucks.
Contaminated Site Remediation Worker Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas
Safety Awareness: You must have a strong understanding of safety protocols and regulations governing hazardous materials and environments. Staying vigilant and adhering strictly to safety practices is critical to protect yourself and your team.
Physical Fitness: The role requires physical stamina and strength. You should be able to lift heavy equipment, navigate difficult terrain, and perform manual labor in various conditions.
Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with remediation technologies, equipment, and procedures is essential. You should understand how to operate machinery used for site assessment and cleanup.
Problem-Solving Abilities: You will encounter unexpected challenges on the job. Being able to identify problems quickly and develop effective solutions is vital for successful remediation efforts.
Attention to Detail: You'll need an eye for detail to conduct thorough site assessments and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Your ability to notice subtle changes or conditions can prevent serious issues.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Working alongside a team is common in this field. Being able to communicate effectively, share responsibilities, and support one another is important for project success.
Communication Skills: You should possess strong verbal and written communication skills to convey information clearly to your team and report on findings and progress to superiors.
Environmental Awareness: A keen understanding of environmental science, including ecosystems and the effects of contaminants, will help you approach remediation work more effectively.
Adaptability: The nature of this work often changes depending on site conditions and regulatory updates. You should be flexible and willing to adjust to new methods or practices as required.
Recordkeeping Proficiency: Accurate documentation of processes, findings, and compliance reports is necessary. You need to be organized in maintaining records that satisfy regulatory requirements.
Basic Mechanical Skills: Having a foundational knowledge of mechanical systems can be beneficial for troubleshooting and maintaining remediation equipment during operations.
Job Duties for Contaminated Site Remediation Workers
Build containment areas prior to beginning abatement or decontamination work.
Identify asbestos, lead, or other hazardous materials to be removed, using monitoring devices.
Remove asbestos or lead from surfaces, using hand or power tools such as scrapers, vacuums, or high-pressure sprayers.
Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Xactware Xactimate
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas
The job market for Contaminated Site Remediation Workers in Kansas is influenced by a variety of factors, including environmental regulations, infrastructure development, and the increased focus on clean-up initiatives. Here is an overview of the current landscape, growth potential, and key geographical areas within the state:
Demand for Services: There is a steady demand for remediation workers due to the ongoing need to address contaminated sites, particularly those resulting from industrial activities, agricultural practices, and legacy pollution. The state actively promotes environmental restoration efforts, creating numerous opportunities for those in this field.
Growth Potential: The contaminated site remediation sector is expected to grow as environmental policies become more stringent. The emphasis on sustainable practices and green initiatives will likely drive demand for remediation services, leading to more job openings and long-term career possibilities. This growth is supported by federal and state funding for environmental clean-up projects.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Kansas City Metro Area: The urban metropolitan region has seen various redevelopment initiatives and environmental remediation projects, giving rise to job opportunities in this area.
- Wichita: As a major industrial hub, Wichita presents opportunities in contaminated site remediation, particularly in connection with older industrial sites undergoing redevelopment.
- Topeka: The state capital has various environmental projects, including those associated with hazardous materials and contamination clean-up, enhancing job prospects.
- Salina: This area has ongoing remediation initiatives related to agricultural runoff and industrial pollution, contributing to the demand for remediation workers.
Impact of Regulations: Recent and proposed changes to environmental regulations at both the state and federal levels contribute to the evolving job market. Compliance with these regulations often necessitates the hiring of remediation professionals to ensure organizations meet environmental standards.
Networking and Collaboration: Being part of local and regional environmental groups, as well as attending industry conferences, can help you connect with potential employers and stay updated on new projects and opportunities in the remediation sector.
Overall, the Kansas job market for Contaminated Site Remediation Workers offers a mix of current demand, growth prospects, and strategically located opportunities across the state.
Top Related Careers to Contaminated Site Remediation Worker 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA provides extensive resources regarding contaminated site remediation, regulations, and best practices. Visit their website for guidelines and educational materials.
EPA Contaminated SitesKansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)
The KDHE oversees environmental regulations and offers guidance on state-specific remediation efforts and initiatives. Access their resources for local regulations and support.
KDHE RemediationInternational Society of Contaminated Land (ISCL)
This organization focuses on the global efforts in contaminated land management and provides publications, research, and networking opportunities.
ISCL WebsiteAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
ASCE covers various aspects of civil engineering related to environmental remediation and provides technical guidance and resources for practitioners.
ASCE Environmental and Water Resources InstituteNational Brownfields Training Conference
This conference offers training, workshops, and resources for professionals involved in brownfields redevelopment and contaminated site remediation. Stay updated on upcoming events.
Brownfields ConferenceNational Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
The NIEHS provides research and education on environmental health issues, including the health impacts of working at contaminated sites. Explore their resources for further reading.
NIEHS WebsiteSociety for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
SETAC is dedicated to the advancement of the study of environmental toxicology and chemistry. Their publications and conferences offer valuable information on remediation practices.
SETAC WebsiteEPA Brownfields and Land Revitalization Programs
This program offers resources for cleaning up and reusing brownfield sites, including funding opportunities and case studies.
EPA BrownfieldsKansas Geological Survey (KGS)
The KGS provides valuable information on geological and environmental issues in Kansas, including groundwater contamination studies and remediation methods.
KGS WebsiteOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA offers guidelines and best practices related to workplace safety for workers in remediation, including standards for hazardous waste operations.
OSHA WebsiteAmerican Public Works Association (APWA)
APWA serves professionals in public works and environmental management, providing resources and training relevant to contaminated site remediation.
APWA Website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas
What are the main responsibilities of a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker?
Your main responsibilities include assessing and managing hazardous waste, conducting environmental clean-up operations, operating specialized equipment, making sure sites meet safety regulations, and collaborating with teams to restore sites to safe conditions.What qualifications do I need to become a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas?
Typically, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate degree or certifications in environmental science or hazardous materials management. Additional training and experience in environmental safety are highly beneficial.Is certification required for this position?
While certification is not always mandatory, obtaining certifications such as HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) is often highly recommended and can enhance your employment opportunities.What skills are important for success in this career?
Key skills include attention to detail, physical stamina, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, effective communication, and knowledge of environmental regulations and safety protocols.What is the work environment like for a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker?
You will typically work outdoors at various sites, such as construction sites, landfills, or industrial areas. The environment can be physically demanding and may involve exposure to hazardous materials, requiring proper safety measures.What are the job prospects for this career in Kansas?
Job prospects may vary, but as environmental regulations continue to tighten and clean-up efforts for contaminated sites increase, the demand for remediation workers is expected to remain steady.How much can I expect to earn as a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker in Kansas?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer, but the average hourly wage for this role in Kansas typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour. More experienced workers or those in specialized roles may earn higher wages.What kind of training does a Contaminated Site Remediation Worker receive?
Training often includes on-the-job training, safety protocols, equipment operation, and environmental regulations. Many workers also complete HAZWOPER training and may receive additional training specific to their employer's operational needs.Are there opportunities for advancement within this career?
Yes, there may be opportunities for advancement, especially for those who pursue additional training and certifications. Advancement can lead to supervisory roles, project management positions, or specialized technical roles.What safety measures should I be aware of in this role?
As a remediation worker, you must adhere to all safety guidelines related to hazardous waste handling. This includes wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), following safety protocols, and being aware of emergency response procedures.