Environmental Compliance Inspectors

Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.

Median Annual Wage: $64,950

Education: Bachelor's degree (86%); Post-baccalaureate certificate (10%); Master's degree (5%)

Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)

Related Job Titles: Environmental Specialist; Enforcement Officer; Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Enforcement Officer (RCRA Enforcement Officer); Compliance Investigator; Environmental Quality Analyst; Environmental Protection Specialist; Toxics Program Officer; Waste Management Specialist; Environmental Compliance Officer; Oil Program Compliance Specialist

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Compliance Inspectors.

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  • Prepare written, oral, tabular, and graphic reports summarizing requirements and regulations, including enforcement and chain of custody documentation.
  • Determine the nature of code violations and actions to be taken, and issue written notices of violation; participate in enforcement hearings as necessary.
  • Prepare, organize, and maintain inspection records.
  • Verify that hazardous chemicals are handled, stored, and disposed of in accordance with regulations.
  • Interview individuals to determine the nature of suspected violations and to obtain evidence of violations.
  • Research and keep informed of pertinent information and developments in areas such as EPA laws and regulations.
  • Learn and observe proper safety precautions, rules, regulations, and practices so that unsafe conditions can be recognized and proper safety protocols implemented.
  • Monitor follow-up actions in cases where violations were found, and review compliance monitoring reports.
  • Inspect waste pretreatment, treatment, and disposal facilities and systems for conformance to federal, state, or local regulations.
  • Investigate complaints and suspected violations regarding illegal dumping, pollution, pesticides, product quality, or labeling laws.
  • Evaluate label information for accuracy and conformance to regulatory requirements.
  • Determine sampling locations and methods, and collect water or wastewater samples for analysis, preserving samples with appropriate containers and preservation methods.
  • Inform individuals and groups of pollution control regulations and inspection findings, and explain how problems can be corrected.
  • Review and evaluate applications for registration of products containing dangerous materials, or for pollution control discharge permits.
  • Observe and record field conditions, gathering, interpreting, and reporting data such as flow meter readings and chemical levels.
  • Determine which sites and violation reports to investigate, and coordinate compliance and enforcement activities with other government agencies.
  • Inform health professionals, property owners, and the public about harmful properties and related problems of water pollution and contaminated wastewater.
  • Participate in the development of spill prevention programs and hazardous waste rules and regulations, and recommend corrective actions for hazardous waste problems.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Compliance Inspectors.

  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Environmental Compliance Inspectors.

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