Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in Washington Career Overview
As a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator, you play a vital role in the cleanup and revitalization of contaminated properties. Your responsibilities include managing projects that address environmental hazards, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting sustainable land use.
Key aspects of your role include:
Project Management: You oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of restoration projects, coordinating with various stakeholders including government agencies, environmental consultants, and community organizations.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that all restoration efforts comply with local, state, and federal environmental regulations, mitigating potential liabilities for property owners and developers.
Community Engagement: You actively engage with community members, fostering transparency and trust by explaining project goals, addressing concerns, and incorporating local input into restoration plans.
Environmental Assessment: You conduct site assessments to identify contamination levels and develop strategic plans for remediation that align with best practices in environmental management.
Funding Acquisition: You work to secure funding from government grants and private investments to support restoration efforts, often preparing detailed proposals and reports that outline project objectives and expected outcomes.
Sustainability Practices: You advocate for and implement strategies that promote sustainable development, advocating for practices that restore not just the environment but also enhance community wellbeing.
Your work contributes significantly to improving public health, enhancing property values, and fostering economic redevelopment in urban areas, making the role of a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator essential in striving for a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
Brownfield Restoration Coordinator Salary in Washington
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 Washington
To pursue a career as a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator, specific educational qualifications and training are essential. You should consider the following college degree programs:
Environmental Science: This program provides a broad understanding of scientific principles and the natural environment, including the analysis and remediation of contaminated sites.
Environmental Studies: Focused on the socio-political and economic aspects of environmental issues, this degree equips you with the skills to approach brownfield restoration from a multidisciplinary perspective.
Environmental Engineering Technology: This program emphasizes the application of engineering principles to environmental issues, including the design and implementation of contamination assessment and remediation projects.
Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Policy: This degree focuses on the management of natural resources and the development of effective policies for the restoration and preservation of the environment.
Urban Studies and Affairs: This program covers the relationship between urban development and environmental impact, providing insights into urban planning and community development that are applicable to brownfield restoration initiatives.
Gaining a bachelor's degree in one of these areas typically serves as the foundational education for aspiring Brownfield Restoration Coordinators. Further certifications or training specific to hazardous materials and environmental regulations may also be beneficial as you advance in your career.
Best Schools to become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in Washington 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 Washington
Project Management
You should be adept at overseeing restoration projects from start to finish, ensuring that timelines, budgets, and objectives are met. Strong organizational skills will enable you to coordinate various tasks and resources effectively.Technical Knowledge
A solid understanding of environmental science, geology, or engineering is essential. Familiarity with soil remediation techniques, contamination assessment methods, and regulatory standards will enhance your effectiveness in the role.Regulatory Compliance
You need to be well-versed in local, state, and federal environmental regulations and guidelines, such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). This knowledge ensures that projects comply with legal requirements.Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for effectively conveying complex information to stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental consultants, and the public. You must be able to prepare reports, deliver presentations, and facilitate meetings.Analytical Skills
You should possess the ability to analyze data and interpret environmental assessments. Critical thinking skills are vital for identifying issues, evaluating remediation options, and recommending appropriate solutions.Interpersonal Skills
Building partnerships with various stakeholders—such as government officials, community members, and contractors—is key. You need to foster collaborative relationships and address concerns or misconceptions regarding restoration efforts.Problem-Solving Skills
The capacity to approach challenges creatively and develop effective solutions is essential. You should be prepared to handle unexpected issues that may arise during the restoration process.Team Leadership
You must be capable of leading diverse teams of professionals, guiding them through project workflows and ensuring everyone works towards common goals. Leadership includes motivating team members and resolving conflicts that may surface.Attention to Detail
Being detail-oriented is important in monitoring the progress of restoration activities and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. You should meticulously review documentation and data to avoid overlooking critical information.Time Management
Effectively managing your time and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced environment is crucial. You should be able to juggle multiple projects while adhering to deadlines.Financial Acumen
Understanding budgeting and financial management will aid in resource allocation and ensuring that projects remain financially viable. You may need to assess cost-effectiveness and prepare funding proposals.Adaptability
The ability to adapt to changing regulations, technologies, and project requirements is vital. You should remain flexible and open to learning new methods and practices in brownfield restoration.Risk Assessment
You must be able to identify potential risks associated with restoration projects and develop strategies to mitigate them. This involves understanding both environmental and community impacts.
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 Washington
The demand for Brownfield Restoration Coordinators in Washington is increasing due to heightened environmental awareness, legislation promoting sustainable land use, and the growing need for urban redevelopment. As industries and communities prioritize remediating contaminated sites, your role will be essential in overseeing the processes required to restore these areas.
Growth potential in this field is strong, as state and federal agencies continue to allocate funds for brownfield redevelopment projects. The increasing focus on environmental sustainability and responsible land management ensures a steady influx of opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Geographical hotspots in Washington where job opportunities are more prevalent include:
Seattle Metropolitan Area: The urban setting requires ongoing brownfield assessments and cleanup efforts as city infrastructure develops and expands.
Tacoma: With several industrial sites and a focus on waterfront redevelopment, Tacoma offers numerous projects needing restoration coordinators to manage environmental assessments and remedial actions.
Spokane: The city is seeing growth in infrastructure projects and urban renewal initiatives, creating a demand for expertise in brownfield restoration.
Olympia and the surrounding Thurston County: As the state capital, Olympia often has government-funded projects focused on environmental remediation.
Various non-profit organizations, local government agencies, and private companies in Washington are actively seeking experienced professionals in brownfield restoration. Networking through environmental conferences, local chapters of professional organizations, and community engagement can provide additional opportunities.
Federal environmental initiatives, such as the EPA's Brownfields Program, continue to drive projects and funding, creating a solid framework for sustained employment in brownfield restoration coordination across the state.
Top Related Careers to Brownfield Restoration Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in Washington
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- The EPA provides guidelines, tools, and financial assistance information for Brownfield redevelopment.
- Website: EPA Brownfields
Washington State Department of Ecology
- This state agency offers resources, regulations, and information specific to brownfield assessments and cleanups in Washington.
- Website: Washington State Ecology Brownfields Program
National Association of Local Government Environmental Professionals (NALGEP)
- NALGEP focuses on environmental policy and shares best practices related to brownfield restoration.
- Website: NALGEP
Brownfields Toolbox
- This online resource provides practical tools and case studies for effective brownfield restoration strategies.
- Website: Brownfields Toolbox
International City/County Management Association (ICMA)
- ICMA provides resources and training focused on local government management, including tools for sustainability and brownfield redevelopment.
- Website: ICMA
Urban Land Institute (ULI)
- ULI offers numerous publications, webinars, and resources focused on land use and brownfield restoration projects.
- Website: Urban Land Institute
The National Brownfields Coalition
- This organization advocates for effective brownfield policies and provides resources to facilitate partnerships in community redevelopment.
- Website: National Brownfields Coalition
Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
- SETAC provides scientific information and resources related to environmental chemistry and toxicology relevant to remediation efforts.
- Website: SETAC
Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO)
- This organization offers resources and information on state solid waste and brownfields management practices.
- Website: ASTSWMO
Environmental Law Institute (ELI)
- ELI provides legal resources and policy advocacy concerning environmental issues, including brownfields.
- Website: Environmental Law Institute
These resources can help you deepen your understanding of the field, stay updated on best practices, and navigate the complexities of brownfield restoration in Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in Washington
What does a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator do?
A Brownfield Restoration Coordinator manages the assessment and cleanup of brownfield sites—previously developed properties that may be contaminated. Your role involves coordinating projects, working with environmental engineers, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure successful site remediation and redevelopment.What qualifications do I need to become a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field is required. Some positions may also prefer a master’s degree or specialized certifications in environmental management or remediation practices.Is prior experience necessary for this role?
While some entry-level positions may be available, most employers prefer candidates with experience in environmental project management, cleanup operations, or regulatory compliance. Internships or volunteer work in related fields can also be beneficial.What skills are important for a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator?
Key skills include project management, knowledge of environmental regulations, strong analytical abilities, effective communication, and teamwork. You should also be adept at problem-solving and have experience with stakeholder engagement.Where might I find job opportunities for this career?
Job opportunities can be found in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and private companies involved in land reclamation and development. Local government websites and job boards focused on environmental positions are also good resources.What is the typical salary for a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator in Washington?
Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and location, but as of 2023, the average salary ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 per year. Checking state-specific labor statistics may provide more accurate figures.What are the career advancement opportunities in this field?
With experience, you may advance to senior management roles, such as Project Director or Environmental Manager. Continuing education and obtaining certifications can also foster career growth and open doors to specialized roles in environmental policy or consulting.What challenges might I face as a Brownfield Restoration Coordinator?
You may encounter challenges related to regulatory compliance, budget constraints, and stakeholder opposition. Navigating complex environmental issues and ensuring community engagement can also be demanding aspects of the role.How do I stay updated on industry regulations and best practices?
Engage in continuous learning through professional organizations, attend workshops and conferences, and subscribe to industry publications. Networking with peers and participating in relevant forums can also provide valuable insights.Are there professional organizations related to Brownfield Restoration?
Yes, organizations like the National Brownfield Association and the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO) offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development specifically for professionals in this field.