Program Manager (Hazardous Waste)

The Planet Group; Brighton (MI); On-site; USD 51,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Planet Group in Brighton MI is seeking a Program Manager (Hazardous Waste) to lead operations onsite. The role focuses on safety compliance, day-to-day management, and profitability, reporting to the Operations Manager.

This is a direct-hire, on-site position in Brighton, MI. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field, with knowledge of DOT/RCRA and OSHA requirements, and at least 1 year of leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• 1 year of team leadership experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of DOT, RCRA and applicable regulations.
• OSHA/DOT medical examination may be required.

Responsibilities

• Promote a strong safety culture and align with EHS teams and lab personnel.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring site compliance and profitability.
• Lead projects such as lab cleanouts, decommissioning, and waste management.
• Coordinate training, onboarding, and staff development to meet standards.
• Monitor staffing, timelines, and client-specific requirements; manage billing considerations.

Skills

Team leadership

Environmental compliance

Safety management

DOT/RCRA knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related field

Job description

Title: Program Manager (Hazardous Waste)

Location: Brighton MI

Direct Hire

Starting Pay: Up to 85k depending on experience plus bonus

We are seeking a Program Manager to lead operations in Brighton MI. This role involves managing safety compliance, overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring site compliance, and driving profitability.

This position reports to an Operations Manager. This role is onsite.

Safety:

• Promote a strong safety culture by collaborating with site operations, EHS teams, and lab personnel.
• Conduct and oversee quality STOP audits, report incidents, and follow up on safety issues as perprotocols.
• Train employees on stop work authority and safety practices, maintain and update safety documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all internal and client-specific safety procedures and participate in incident reviews as necessary.

Operations & Site Compliance:

• Initiate and manage new business ventures, including staffing and operational setup.
• Oversee various projects such as lab cleanouts, facility pickups, decommissioning, and waste management, from scope definition to job for the university and various contractors.
• Serve as the primary contact for project coordination, manage ticketing systems, and address site-specific operational needs.
• Ensure accurate waste profiling and documentation, manage routine meetings, and identify improvements in compliance and sustainability practices.
• Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to onsite staff, manage training, and ensure professional growth.
• Address and resolve team conflicts, maintain high morale, and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Coordinate client-specific training and onboarding and ensure that all staff meet required training and certification standards.

Profitability:

• Monitor and adjust target hours and billing to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Review and approve contract employee timesheets and ensure correct billing.
• Drive customer service initiatives, participate in cost reviews, and develop and track KPIs for performance and profitability

Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, or other related majors, or equivalent
• Prior knowledge, experience, and compliance with DOT, RCRA, and other applicable regulations
• Successful completion of OSHA/DOT physical examination
• 1 year of team leadership experience
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without future sponsorship
• Must have a reliable form of transportation
• Must be willing to consent to Motor Vehicle Record screening, criminal background check, pre-employment physical, and drug screen (inclusive of THC)
• Upon employment, you will be required to participate in a random drug screening program (inclusive of THC) as part of our company’s commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment
• Must be able to lift 60 pounds on a regular basis
• Ability to work overtime on a regular basis
• Must be willing to work flexible hours within the work week (Monday through Friday)
• Must be able to report to designated office within 1 hour during Emergency Response rotating shifts
• The Program Manager frequently handles hazardous chemicals and biological waste and is responsible for putting on and taking off personal protective equipment. This role is considered safety sensitive.

Preferred Requirements:

• Emergency Response
• Completion of ES advancement program
• 2+ years’ experience in the Environmental Services/Hazardous Waste industry