Chief Environmental Scientist

Freeport-McMoRan; Phoenix (AZ); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Life & disability insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Employee assistance program

Discounted insurance

Career progression

Job summary

Freeport-McMoRan seeks an experienced environmental professional to oversee air quality practices at our Phoenix-area site. You will supervise, enhance and monitor environmental programs, ensuring compliance with federal, state and local regulations.

The role combines project management with contractor oversight, budgeting support and collaboration with site leadership to advance environmental initiatives. A strong background in air quality is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or related natural science with seven years of related experience or a Master’s degree with five years.
• Strong understanding of air quality regulations and permitting processes.
• Experience leading environmental compliance programs and site teams.

Responsibilities

• Supervise, enhance and monitor air quality environmental practices for the site.
• Report environmental compliance issues and make recommendations to site management for correction.
• Serve as Project Manager on large/complex environmental projects (air quality permits, remediation, or reclamation).
• Evaluate contracts with vendors for services and equipment.
• Provide guidance to site management on applicable programs and regulations.
• Contribute to site strategic planning and budgeting for environmental systems.
• Maintain knowledge of Federal, State and local environmental regulations.
• Oversee training mandated by EPA, DEQ or other bodies and liaise with regulatory authorities.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Regulatory interpretation

Contractor supervision

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science/related field

Master’s degree in a related field

Job description

Why You Should Apply for This Job

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you’ll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career.

Where You Will Work

Our global headquarters is in Phoenix, Arizona. Several hundred employees support global operations in finance, human resources, information technology, planning and more from the main office, satellite offices or online. As a Hybrid employee, you’ll engage in virtual collaboration as well as attend in-person meetings at our Collaboration Hub in Phoenix or at one of our site locations. The Collaboration Hub provides an open, flexible workspace for individuals and teams to come together for various business needs. Amenities at the Hub include a working café, phone booths and meeting rooms with technology tools for virtual and in-person collaboration. In-person attendance may vary based on the position and department requirements.

Phoenix is the capital of the Grand Canyon State and enjoys mostly bright skies throughout the year. It is the perfect place if you enjoy the outdoors, love sports, concerts and other big city amenities or technology. There are great neighborhoods around Phoenix, with easy access to a major city, nature, the arts and many more amenities.

What You’ll Do

• Supervise, enhance and monitor air quality environmental practices for the site.
• Report environmental compliance issues and make recommendations to appropriate site management for correction.
• Serve as Project Manager on large/complex environmental projects (e.g., air quality compliance, permitting, remediation, or reclamation).
• Evaluate and administer contracts with vendors for the provision of services and equipment.
• Provide guidance and counsel to the site management team on applicable programs, practices, and existing/proposed local, State and Federal regulations.
• Contribute to site strategic planning and budgeting efforts for environmental systems and issues.
• Maintain current working knowledge of Federal, State and local environmental and occupational health regulations (e.g., CERCLA, RCRA, TOSCA, SARA, CWA, EPCRA etc).
• Oversee and coordinate all training mandated by EPA, DEQ or other body. Serve as contact with EPA, DEQ or other regulatory body in designated areas.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, Earth Science or related natural science (such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Hydrology, Forestry, Agriculture, Meteorology, Environmental/Natural Resource Management); or Mathematics/Computer Science including Accounting and Finance, or, Business Management or other Bachelor’s degree, and seven (7) years related experience; OR
• Master’s degree in a related field, and five (5) years related experience.
• Additional certification or licensure appropriate to the job may be required or preferred.

Preferred

• Knowledge/experience with Federal and Arizona air quality regulation and programs (SIP, FIP, NSR, Emission Standards, Etc.).
• Experience with evaluating permitting needs for projects and process changes and the preparation of air quality permit applications and modifications.
• Experience communicating with and leading personnel from operational departments through air quality compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with data analysis and validation.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance and management systems.

What We Offer You

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently $112,000-$160,000. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional incentive compensation considerations based on company and individual performance. Additionally, this position is currently eligible for annual long-term incentive consideration. Long-term incentives are contingent upon authorized approval under the terms and conditions of the Company's plan and award agreements. More details will be shared during the hiring process.

• Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match
• Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted insurance plans for auto, home and pet
• Internal progression opportunities
• Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package!

What We Require

Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing as allowed by applicable laws.

This is a hybrid role with primary work performed remotely from Arizona. Candidates must be available to work on-site at least twice per month as business needs require.

Ability to travel domestically up to 30% and internationally up to 5% is required.

Equal Opportunity Employer