Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey Career Overview
As a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator, you play a vital role in the management and revitalization of brownfield sites—properties that have been previously used for industrial or commercial purposes and may be contaminated. Your responsibilities are essential in ensuring the safety and health of communities while promoting sustainable development.
Key aspects of your role include:
Project Management: You oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of remediation projects to restore contaminated lands for future use.
Collaboration: You work closely with various stakeholders, including environmental engineers, government agencies, and community groups, to coordinate restoration efforts and secure necessary permits.
Site Assessment: Conducting environmental assessments to evaluate the degree of contamination is a critical part of your job. You analyze data and recommend appropriate cleanup strategies based on regulatory guidelines.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that remediation activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations, thus safeguarding public health and the environment.
Public Engagement: You often engage with the community to provide information, gather input, and address concerns about the restoration process, fostering transparency and trust.
Sustainability Focus: You promote sustainable practices in the rehabilitation of brownfields, advocating for their transformation into parks, commercial spaces, or residential areas that benefit the community and stimulate economic growth.
By facilitating the restoration of these sites, you contribute to the improvement of local environments, enhance property values, and support the goals of urban redevelopment in New Jersey, ultimately leading to safer and more attractive communities.
Brownfield Restoration Coordinator Salary in New Jersey
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey
To become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator, you will need a relevant educational background. The following degree programs are particularly suited for this career path:
Environmental Science: This program provides a scientific foundation in subjects such as ecology, biology, and chemistry, equipping you with the knowledge necessary to assess and manage contaminated sites.
Environmental Studies: This interdisciplinary program focuses on the social, political, and economic aspects of environmental issues, preparing you to engage with various stakeholders in the brownfield restoration process.
Environmental Engineering Technology: This program emphasizes the practical applications of engineering principles in environmental contexts, giving you skills for designing and implementing remediation strategies.
Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Policy: This degree combines environmental science with policy analysis, enabling you to navigate regulatory frameworks and advocate for effective restoration practices.
Urban Studies and Affairs: This program focuses on urban planning and public policy, providing insights into urban redevelopment and the socio-economic implications of restoring brownfields in metropolitan areas.
In addition to a relevant degree, you may also benefit from internships or specialized training programs that provide hands-on experience in environmental assessment and remediation techniques.
Best Schools to become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
American Public University System
University of California-Santa Barbara
University of California-Berkeley
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Plan and direct cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated properties for reuse.
- Does not include properties sufficiently contaminated to qualify as Superfund sites.
Brownfield Restoration Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in New Jersey
Project Management: You will need to effectively plan, execute, and oversee multiple restoration projects, ensuring they stay on schedule and within budget.
Technical Knowledge: A solid understanding of environmental science, soil and water contamination, and remediation technologies is essential for making informed decisions.
Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with state and federal environmental regulations, as well as local laws regarding land use and public safety, is critical for compliance and successful project execution.
Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze complex data and environmental reports will enable you to identify issues, assess risks, and recommend appropriate solutions.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for conveying technical information to stakeholders, including government officials, community members, and contractors.
Collaboration: You will frequently work with engineers, scientists, and regulatory bodies, making teamwork and partnership-building skills vital for project success.
Problem-Solving: Being able to identify potential challenges and implement effective solutions in a timely manner will be essential in navigating the complexities of restoration projects.
Attention to Detail: Precision is key in monitoring project specifications and ensuring compliance with environmental standards, as even minor oversights can lead to significant consequences.
Budget Management: Competency in financial planning and cost management will help you oversee project budgets accurately and allocate resources effectively.
Community Engagement: Skills in public outreach and stakeholder engagement are important for fostering community support and addressing public concerns throughout the restoration process.
Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with project management software and environmental modeling tools will be beneficial for maintaining organization and efficiency in your work.
Risk Assessment: You will need to evaluate the potential risks associated with restoration projects, proposing mitigation strategies where necessary to ensure safety and compliance.
Job Duties for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators
Coordinate on-site activities for environmental cleanup or remediation projects to ensure compliance with environmental laws, standards, regulations, or other requirements.
Identify and apply for project funding.
Identify environmental contamination sources.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle Hyperion
- SAP software
Geographic information system
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- ESRI ArcView
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve 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 Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey
The job market for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators in New Jersey has been evolving steadily, prompted by both environmental regulations and community revitalization efforts. Here are key aspects of the current landscape:
Increasing Demand: There has been a growing recognition of the importance of brownfield redevelopment in addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainable development. This has led to an increased demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of site assessments, remediation, and community engagement.
Growth Potential: As New Jersey continues to prioritize clean-up and redevelopment initiatives, the need for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators is expected to rise. Local governments and private sector organizations are increasingly seeking expertise in regulatory compliance and project management to facilitate brownfield redevelopment projects.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in New Jersey exhibit a particularly high demand for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators:
- Urban Centers: Cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Camden are focal points for brownfield projects due to their higher concentrations of abandoned industrial sites and urban revitalization initiatives.
- Industrial Regions: Areas with historical industrial activity, such as the Delaware Valley and the Raritan River corridor, are seeing investments in brownfield restoration, driving the need for skilled coordinators.
- State and Local Agencies: Various state and municipal government programs aimed at promoting environmental health and community development are also creating job opportunities for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators.
Partnerships with Nonprofits and Developers: The rise of partnerships between public agencies, private developers, and nonprofit organizations has expanded the job market for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators. These collaborations often require project management and strategic planning skills to ensure successful outcomes.
Legislative Support: The New Jersey Legislature has enacted several laws supporting brownfield redevelopment, creating a more favorable environment for jobs in this field. This support reflects the state’s commitment to reclaiming and revitalizing contaminated sites.
As the focus on environmental sustainability continues to grow, the prospects for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators in New Jersey appear positive, with ample opportunities for those dedicated to advancing the field.
Top Related Careers to Brownfield Restoration Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Website: EPA Brownfields Program
- Description: The EPA provides essential guidelines, funding information, and best practices related to brownfield restoration.
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
- Website: NJDEP Site Remediation Program
- Description: This state agency offers resources specific to New Jersey, including regulations, cleanup standards, and site assessment programs.
National Brownfields Coalition
- Website: National Brownfields Coalition
- Description: This organization works to promote the reuse of brownfield sites and provides networking opportunities and educational resources.
The Center for Creative Land Recycling (CCLR)
- Website: CCLR
- Description: CCLR is a nonprofit dedicated to the conversion of brownfields into productive use, offering training resources and technical assistance.
International City/County Management Association (ICMA)
- Website: ICMA Brownfields Resource Center
- Description: ICMA provides tools, case studies, and insights into how local governments manage brownfield projects.
The Brownfields Conference
- Website: Brownfields Conference
- Description: Annually hosted by the EPA, this conference offers networking opportunities, workshops, and sessions relevant to brownfield restoration professionals.
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)
- Website: NJIT Center for Resilient Design
- Description: NJIT's research center engages in projects addressing urban redevelopment and brownfield restoration, providing academic resources and studies.
Railroad and Industrial Yard Environmental Cleanup
- Website: New Jersey Brownfields Assistance Center
- Description: This initiative offers detailed information on assisting with the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites in New Jersey.
Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
- Website: SETAC
- Description: As a global organization, SETAC provides educational resources and publications related to environmental science and toxicology, including brownfield issues.
Local Government’s Planning and Development Offices
- Resources: Check the websites of your local planning departments for guidelines and resources specific to brownfield assessment and restoration in your area.
These resources will help deepen your understanding of the field and provide valuable insights and data that can enhance your professional expertise as a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in New Jersey
What is a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator? A Brownfield Restoration Coordinator oversees the assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of brownfield sites—properties where the presence of hazardous substances complicates potential development. This role involves facilitating collaboration between governments, environmental agencies, and private stakeholders.
What qualifications are needed to become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator? Typically, a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, urban planning, or a related field is required. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant certifications, such as a Project Management Professional (PMP) or certifications from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What skills are essential for this career? Key skills include project management, understanding of environmental regulations, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. A proficiency in data analysis and GIS technology can also be beneficial.
What does a typical day look like for a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator? A typical day may include site assessments, coordinating with environmental consultants, meeting with stakeholders, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Fieldwork and office tasks are usually balanced.
What are the job prospects for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators in New Jersey? Job prospects are positive due to ongoing urban redevelopment projects and increased focus on sustainable practices. New Jersey’s commitment to brownfield site remediation also contributes to a steady demand for professionals in this field.
What industries employ Brownfield Restoration Coordinators? You can find employment in various sectors, including government agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-profit organizations focused on urban development, and private industries involved in real estate or land development.
Is certification necessary for this role? While certification is not always mandatory, it can enhance your qualifications and demonstrate expertise. Certifications such as the Hazardous Materials Manager (HMM) or the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) are advantageous.
What are the career advancement opportunities? With experience, you may advance to senior management positions or specialize in areas like environmental compliance, risk assessment, or project management. Some professionals move into consulting roles or related fields such as urban planning or real estate development.
How does one stay updated on regulations and best practices in this field? Engage in continuous education through workshops, webinars, and professional associations like the National Association of Environmental Professionals. Reading industry publications and participating in networking events are also beneficial.
What are the biggest challenges faced by Brownfield Restoration Coordinators? Challenges include navigating complex regulatory environments, managing stakeholder expectations, securing funding for projects, and addressing public concerns regarding environmental impacts. Adaptability and effective communication are essential to overcoming these hurdles.