Environmental Compliance Lead

UMass Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

UMass Amherst Environmental Health & Safety seeks an Environmental Compliance Manager to lead the university's environmental programs, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations for air emissions, stormwater, wastewater, SPCC, and utilities operations.

You will oversee permits and reporting, audits and training, coordinate with MassDEP and EPA, manage contractors, and help drive safe, sustainable campus operations at Amherst and satellite facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field.
• Six or more years of environmental compliance experience.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations, including RCRA, Clean Air Act, and Clean Water Act.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work with campus partners.
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass a baseline physical exam.

Responsibilities

• Develops and maintains programs to ensure regulatory compliance across campus.
• Oversees permits, reporting, inspections, and monitoring of air, water, and waste systems.
• Leads environmental audits and coordinates corrective actions with stakeholders.
• Manages data systems for compliance reporting and records.
• Represents the University in discussions with MassDEP and EPA.
• Manages external contractors performing environmental services.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Title: Environmental Compliance Mgr

Executive Area: Administration and Finance

College/School/MBU: Environmental Health & Safety

Department: Environmental Health & Safety

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule:Full time

Work Arrangement:Onsite

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Director of Environmental Programs, the Environmental Compliance Manager leads the University's environmental compliance programs by adhering to applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The position oversees environmental permitting, regulatory reporting, inspections, and compliance programs related to air emissions, stormwater, wastewater, spill prevention, and utilities operations. The Manager serves as the University's primary environmental compliance resource and regulatory liaison, partnering with various campus departments to support safe, sustainable, and compliant operations across the University and satellite campuses.

Essential Functions

Manages environmental compliance programs and policies in accordance with University standards and federal, state, and local regulations. Develops and maintains procedures and documentation to ensure compliance with applicable permits and reporting requirements.

Coordinates the development, submission, and maintenance of environmental permits and reporting for air, water, stormwater, and wastewater systems. Manages monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting obligations, certifications, and annual summaries under applicable federal and state environmental regulations.

Provides environmental compliance oversight for Central Heating Plant and Utilities operations, including air emissions reporting, cooling water discharges, and greenhouse gas reporting. Supports equipment upgrades and operational changes to ensure environmental performance meets regulatory standards.

Oversees multiple environmental contractors who perform routine and annual critical environmental services on campus, ensuring work performed meets regulatory requirements and University standards.

Maintains and updates the University's Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan and similar environmental emergency procedures. Coordinates with campus personnel to ensure appropriate response and documentation of spills or releases. Supports post-incident investigation and corrective action planning.

Conducts or coordinates environmental audits, inspections, and assessments of university facilities to verify compliance and identify areas for improvement. Works with campus stakeholders to develop and implement corrective actions. Prepares for and participates in regulatory inspections and agency communications.

Develops and delivers training programs to university personnel on environmental compliance topics such as stormwater management, spill prevention, and air quality reporting. Provides guidance to staff, contractors, and project managers to ensure understanding of permit conditions and regulatory obligations.

Manages environmental compliance data systems and software, ensuring data integrity and accessibility for internal and external reporting.

Serves as the University's technical contact with regulatory agencies such as the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Represents the University in compliance discussions, inspections, and technical exchanges.

Other Functions

Performs related duties as assigned.

Promotes a culture of safety, accountability and continuous improvement.

Maintains up-to-date professional competency and awareness of emerging environmental regulations, technologies, and best practices.

Occasionally performs light to moderate physical effort, including lifting, moving, transporting, or carrying light-weight materials or equipment associated with environmental compliance inspections, monitoring, and field activities.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree and at least six (6) years of experience in environmental compliance, hazardous materials management, or related regulatory programs.

Excellent interpersonal skills and work ethic. Ability to develop cooperative working relationships with the campus community.

Knowledge of relevant federal and state regulations, including RCRA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Environmental Protection Agency.

Strong communication skills including oral presentations and technical writing abilities. Proficient in the use of technology.

Valid driver's license and ability to pass a baseline physical exam.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Salary Information

Pay Grade:PSSAP Grade 29

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume, and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.