Environmental Waste Specialist

Reports to: Manager of HSE • Location: Clear Lake, SD • Minimal travel required • Non-Exempt position

About the Role

The Environmental Waste Specialist manages hazardous waste from production processes, including treatment, deactivation, and disposal of energetic hazardous wastes. The role also involves assisting with off-site shipments, maintaining documentation, and supporting broader Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) tasks as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform hazardous waste management functions, including treatment and deactivation of energetic hazardous wastes.
• Move packaged waste from buildings to bunkers for storage and dispose of waste generated from production processes.
• Assist with loading/unloading hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
• Maintain Hazardous Waste electronic and paper documentation, including shipment records to meet regulatory requirements.
• Prepare hazardous waste manifests and land disposal restriction notifications.
• Develop and present environmental compliance training.
• Perform housekeeping duties related to hazardous waste activities.
• Conduct inspections and audits (e.g., fire extinguishers, bunkers, emergency response equipment) and plant walk-throughs as assigned.
• Operate company vehicles and forklifts as required.
• Assist with other HSE tasks, including covering for employees on leave or vacation.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (ITAR restrictions apply).
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be eligible to possess explosives under the Safe Explosives Act of 2003 (ATF requirements for Tech Ord employees).
• High school diploma or GED; experience or training in explosives handling safety or hazardous waste handling preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; ability to learn internal systems (SharePoint, XRM).
• Must complete the following training within specified timeframes:
  • RCRA 40-hour Hazardous Waste Regulations (within 6 months of hire).
  • DOT Hazmat Ground Shipper Training (within 90 days of hire).
  • Manifest training via D.O.T. or RCRA (upon hire).
  • Function-specific RCRA training (upon hire).
• Ability to communicate and document effectively in English.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task toward goals.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Must obtain forklift certification and a driver’s license upon hire.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking (indoors and outdoors), and use of hands to handle or feel objects.
• Minimal lifting of 10 pounds; occasional pushing, pulling, or lifting up to 50 pounds (rarely over 50 pounds with assistance).
• Occasional bending, squatting, or kneeling.
• Vision requirements: close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus (e.g., for computer work).
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, toxic/caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and explosives.
• Mandatory use of ear protection, 50% cotton clothing (including undergarments) to mitigate electrostatic discharge (ESD), and company-issued safety footwear.

Schedule

36 hours per week / 4-day workweek.