GEF

Unit 8  |  Government and Sustainability 180 CAREER FOCUS: ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE OFFICER Education: Most compliance officers have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, plus knowledge of relevant laws and regulations. Compliance officers also typically undergo moderate-term on-the-job training lasting from 1 month to 1 year. Median Salary (2015): $65,640. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, environmental compliance officers are specialists in the various local, state, and federal environmental laws and regulations. They may work for companies to make sure the company follows the laws and regulations, or for government agencies to monitor and inspect whether or not companies are adhering to the laws and regulations. They are often involved in environmental remediation. Environmental remediation is the removal of pollution or contaminants from ground water and surface water and soil. Typical job duties include: ■■ Inspecting and investigating sources of pollution. ■■ Monitoring projects to ensure conformance with federal, state, and local regulations and ordinances. ■■ Examining permits, licenses, applications, and records to ensure compliance with licensing requirements. ■■ Preparing reports summarizing requirements and regulations, including enforcement and chain of custody documentation. ■■ Determining the nature of code violations and actions to be taken, and issuing written notices of violation; participating in enforcement hearings as necessary. ■■ Verifying that hazardous chemicals are handled, stored, and disposed of in accordance with regulations. ■■ Developing plans, permits, and procedures for air quality, hazardous waste, spill prevention, storm water, and wastewater. ■■ Preparing technical proposals and participate in business development. For more information on this and other careers in Sustainability, go to bls.gov/oco/.