Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Site Remediation Technologist, your role is central to the process of restoring contaminated land and environments, ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations. You engage in a variety of activities that are vital for the protection of public health and environmental integrity.
Assessment of Contamination: You conduct site assessments to identify the nature and extent of contaminants present in soil, groundwater, and sediment. This involves collecting and analyzing samples to determine contamination levels.
Remediation Strategies: Based on your assessments, you develop and recommend remediation strategies. These strategies may include techniques such as soil excavation, bioremediation, stabilization, or the use of chemical agents to neutralize pollutants.
Project Management: You oversee remediation projects, coordinating multiple stakeholders including engineers, environmental scientists, and regulatory officials. Effective communication with these entities ensures that projects are executed efficiently and in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Monitoring and Reporting: Continuous monitoring of remediation efforts is essential to ensure effectiveness. You track progress, conduct follow-up assessments, and prepare comprehensive reports that provide insights on the success of remediation activities.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that all remediation activities meet regulatory requirements and industry standards. Staying informed about changes in environmental laws and regulations is necessary to adapt and implement best practices.
Community Engagement: Engaging with the local community is part of your role, especially when remediation efforts impact nearby neighborhoods. You may address public concerns, provide updates on project progress, and educate the community about environmental issues.
Your work not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also contributes to long-term sustainability efforts, making it a vital occupation within the realm of environmental science and engineering.
Site Remediation Technologist Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma
To become a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma, you will need to focus on obtaining relevant educational qualifications and training. Here are the specific degree programs that will support your career path:
Environmental Engineering Technology
- A degree in Environmental Engineering Technology provides a solid foundation in engineering principles and environmental science. This program typically covers water quality management, waste treatment, and environmental regulations.
Environmental Health Engineering
- This program emphasizes the intersection between engineering and public health. You will learn about the assessment and management of environmental hazards, along with the design of systems to protect human health.
Environmental Science
- Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science will equip you with interdisciplinary knowledge about ecological processes, pollution control, and natural resource management. This degree often includes practical laboratory work and field studies.
Environmental Toxicology
- A degree in Environmental Toxicology will focus on the study of the harmful effects of chemical substances on the environment and human health. You will engage in research related to toxic substances, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.
Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
- This specialized engineering program addresses the behavior of earth materials and their interaction with the environment. It covers topics such as soil mechanics, site characterization, and the design of structures to minimize environmental impact.
In addition to obtaining a degree from one of these programs, gaining hands-on experience through internships or cooperative education programs is highly beneficial. This experiential learning can enhance your practical understanding of site remediation processes and environmental assessments.
Best Schools to become a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma 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
- Apply theory and principles of environmental engineering to modify, test, and operate equipment and devices used in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental problems, including waste treatment and site remediation, under the direction of engineering staff or scientists.
- May assist in the development of environmental remediation devices.
Site Remediation Technologist Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Technical Proficiency: Understand and apply techniques related to environmental science, chemistry, and engineering, particularly as they pertain to soil and water contamination.
Analytical Skills: Utilize strong analytical abilities to evaluate environmental data, interpret scientific results, and recommend remediation strategies based on findings.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Approach complex environmental challenges with innovative solutions, often developing and implementing strategies for site cleanup.
Attention to Detail: Maintain a high level of precision in documenting processes, data, and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with environmental laws and standards.
Project Management: Coordinate various facets of site remediation projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource management, while ensuring timelines and objectives are met.
Communication Skills: Effectively articulate technical information to a range of stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, clients, and the public, fostering collaboration and understanding.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Work well in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating the ability to cooperate and communicate with professionals from various backgrounds.
Regulatory Knowledge: Stay informed about state and federal environmental regulations, understanding their implications for site remediation efforts.
Fieldwork Skills: Conduct field investigations and assessments, including sample collection and site inspections, while adhering to safety protocols.
Adaptability: Adjust to changing conditions and new information in dynamic work environments, remaining flexible in approach and methodologies.
Safety Awareness: Prioritize health and safety practices, recognizing potential hazards during site assessments and remediation operations, and ensuring appropriate protective measures are in place.
Job Duties for Site Remediation Technologists
Maintain project logbook records or computer program files.
Perform environmental quality work in field or office settings.
Record laboratory or field data, including numerical data, test results, photographs, or summaries of visual observations.
Analytical or scientific software
- Statistical software
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Compliance software
- Material safety data sheet MSDS software
- Waste management software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma
The job market for Site Remediation Technologists in Oklahoma is currently experiencing a notable demand driven by several factors, including increased environmental regulations, a heightened focus on sustainability, and ongoing infrastructure development projects.
Demand for Services: As industries continue to prioritize compliance with environmental laws and regulations, the need for competent Site Remediation Technologists has grown. This role is essential in assessing and managing contaminated sites, ensuring that projects meet state and federal guidelines.
Growth Potential: The field is poised for growth as investments in environmental restoration are anticipated to rise. With more companies committing to environmental stewardship and responsible resource management, the opportunities for Site Remediation Technologists are expected to expand.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Oklahoma are emerging as focal points for site remediation efforts. Key locations include:
- Tulsa and Oklahoma City: These urban centers are at the forefront of infrastructure development, often needing remediation services due to legacy contamination issues.
- Northern Oklahoma: Regions with historical industrial activity are seeing increased demand for cleaning up brownfield sites.
- Oil and Gas Fields: Given Oklahoma's strong history in the oil and gas sector, there are ongoing efforts to remediate sites affected by extraction activities, particularly in west-central Oklahoma.
Networking within local industry groups and seeking opportunities through environmental consulting firms that operate in these hotspots can enhance your chances of securing a position in this growing market.
Top Related Careers to Site Remediation Technologist 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Official website with resources on environmental protection, site remediation, and cleanup standards.
- Website: EPA
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ)
- Provides information specific to environmental regulations and site remediation practices in Oklahoma.
- Website: ODEQ
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
- Offers research and information related to environmental health issues which can be relevant to site remediation.
- Website: NIEHS
Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
- A global organization dedicated to advancing the science and effectiveness of environmental management, including resources on site assessment and remediation.
- Website: SETAC
National Environmental Training Center for Small Communities (NETCSC)
- Dedicated to providing training and resources for environmental professionals, including those in remediation.
- Website: NETCSC
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) – Environmental and Water Resources Institute (EWRI)
- Offers various technical resources, publications, and conferences pertinent to civil engineering and environmental remediation.
- Website: ASCE EWRI
Clean Water Action
- A national organization that advocates for clean water and environmental protection, offering insights and resources related to remediation.
- Website: Clean Water Action
International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE)
- Provides information on soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering, important aspects of site remediation practices.
- Website: ISSMGE
Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 – Oklahoma
- Regional office that oversees environmental conditions in Oklahoma, providing relevant resources and contact information for local environmental concerns.
- Website: EPA Region 6
Oklahoma State University – Environmental Sciences Program
- Offers educational resources, programs, and research opportunities in environmental sciences, relevant to site remediation.
- Website: OSU Environmental Sciences
These resources can provide valuable insights and knowledge for advancing your career as a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma
What is a Site Remediation Technologist?
A Site Remediation Technologist is a professional who specializes in cleaning up contaminated sites to protect public health and the environment. This role involves assessing, planning, and implementing strategies to remediate polluted soil, groundwater, and other environmental media.What qualifications do I need to become a Site Remediation Technologist?
Typically, you will need a degree in environmental science, geology, engineering, or a related field. Additional certifications, such as the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) or Registered Environmental Manager (REM), may enhance your qualifications and job prospects.What skills are important for a Site Remediation Technologist?
Key skills include:- Knowledge of environmental regulations and compliance
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Proficiency in environmental assessment and remediation technologies
- Effective communication skills for collaboration and reporting
- Attention to detail and ability to work with scientific data
What types of employers hire Site Remediation Technologists?
Employers can range from private environmental consulting firms and government agencies to large industrial companies and non-profit organizations focused on environmental conservation.Is fieldwork a significant part of this job?
Yes, fieldwork is a critical component of the job. You will likely spend a considerable amount of time on-site, conducting investigations, collecting samples, and overseeing remediation activities.What are the common challenges faced in this profession?
Challenges may include dealing with complex environmental regulations, managing tight project deadlines, ensuring safety and compliance, and addressing the technical complexities of remediation technologies.What is the job outlook for Site Remediation Technologists in Oklahoma?
The job outlook is generally favorable due to increasing environmental regulations and the need for remediation of contaminated sites. The demand for professionals skilled in environmental science is expected to grow, particularly in industries that prioritize sustainability.What is the typical salary for a Site Remediation Technologist in Oklahoma?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer. On average, Site Remediation Technologists in Oklahoma can expect to earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually.Can I work in Site Remediation with a background in a different field?
Yes, it is possible to transition into this field with a background in related disciplines like engineering, biology, or chemistry. Additional training or education in environmental science may be beneficial.What continuing education opportunities are available for Site Remediation Technologists?
Continuing education options include workshops, conferences, and additional certifications. Staying updated on industry trends and changes in regulations is important for professional development.