Environmental Inspectors; Field Based

Problem Overview

ERM is hiring Environmental Inspectors (Field Based) to conduct inspections at construction sites in Santa Clara, California
. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. They must understand industry safety procedures and practices, including experience implementing them on the job. The individual needs to be focused on safety and the need to keep the whole team safe, and be a proactive communicator able to work with construction personnel in the field to educate them about project requirements, problem‑solve when issues arise and keep the team delivering the services our clients expect.

Inspectors may need to deliver environmental tailboard trainings to crews in the field. The EI should be familiar with typical construction BMPs and good housekeeping procedures. The role requires technical skills, strong organizational and communication skills. This is a full‑time (40 h/wk) limited‑term role with a duration of 12 months and the possibility of renewal.

• Conduct field inspections, monitoring and field survey work as directed.
• Interact with and serve as a point of contact with agency officials, regulatory agency staff, landowners, contractors, clients, and other project members.
• Review and implement project documents and provide support and critical judgment on environmental compliance issues.
• Critically assess environmental conditions in the field to evaluate potential environmental impacts from construction.
• Evaluate potential issues and concerns ahead of construction activities.
• Oversee the proper implementation of mitigation measures.
• Conduct environmental sampling (hydrostatic test water, soil, etc.) and/or collect samples of stormwater at designated locations and visually inspect the quality of the sample.
• Oversee and verify flagging of wetland boundaries, cultural and biological resources exclusion zones, refueling zones, etc.
• Inspect and document compliance with a project’s environmental requirements by preparing daily written inspection reports that provide up‑to‑date and consistent written and photo documentation of activities observed in the field.
• Participate in various construction meetings.
• Evaluate restoration activities.
• Support compliance with environmental regulations concerning spill prevention, wastewater, stormwater, storage tanks, and waste management.
• Perform work safely, complying with ERM and client requirements and always wearing appropriate PPE, including hard‑hat, safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and orange high‑visibility vest.
• Work within quality/budget/schedule expectations and scope‑specific assignments.
• Communicate with ERM Project Manager, Senior EIs, various regulatory agencies, and client staff and subcontracts at the various client facilities, developing relationships with client personnel at the facilities to promote environmental stewardship.

• Minimum of 2 years of construction inspection or monitoring; stormwater inspection experience is a plus.
• Bachelor’s Degree in an environmental discipline is preferred.
• General knowledge of environmental disciplines including SWPPP BMP installation and maintenance, water resource protection, biology, materials storage and stockpiles, air quality and dust control, Hazmat storage, spill control and countermeasures, water and soil management and waste management.
• Ability to communicate effectively and willingness to learn and take direction from more senior Environmental Inspectors.
• Working vehicle, valid driver’s license, and a good driving record; ability to drive to the various project locations.
• Effective observational and organization skills; experience recording detailed technical data a plus.
• Effective communication skills with ERM and client staff.
• Experience with water and soil sample collection a plus.
• Proficient in basic computer skills (Microsoft Outlook, Work, Excel) for communication and preparation of inspection documentation.
• Daily hours and duration are variable depending on the site location and work to be completed.
• Other desired…