Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) – Chicago, IL

Are you an environmental professional passionate about ensuring wastewater compliance and protecting public health? We are seeking an Environmental Compliance Specialist with expertise in wastewater regulations to join our team in Chicago, IL. This role offers a unique opportunity to oversee and drive compliance programs that safeguard the environment while supporting sustainable business practices. If you excel in regulatory interpretation, data analysis, and stakeholder communication, this position is ideal for you.

Drive Environmental Compliance and Stewardship in Chicago

A leading organization in Chicago, IL is looking for a dedicated Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) to manage wastewater discharge permits, monitor treatment processes, and ensure adherence to local, state, and federal environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with wastewater treatment compliance, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative approach to working with regulatory agencies. If you are motivated by making a tangible impact on environmental quality and regulatory success, this is your chance to contribute meaningfully to the community and industry.

Key Responsibilities of the Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater)

Regulatory Compliance Management: Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local wastewater regulations, including the Clean Water Act and NPDES permits. Monitor regulatory updates and implement necessary changes to internal procedures and reporting.

Wastewater Monitoring & Reporting: Oversee regular sampling, testing, and analysis of wastewater discharges. Prepare accurate and timely reports for submission to regulatory agencies, ensuring all documentation meets legal and environmental standards.

Environmental Risk Assessment: Identify potential compliance risks related to wastewater treatment and discharge. Develop mitigation plans to prevent violations, minimize environmental impact, and protect public health.

Process Optimization & Best Practices: Collaborate with operations and engineering teams to optimize wastewater treatment processes. Recommend and implement best practices to improve efficiency, reduce pollutants, and maintain sustainable operations.

Inspection & Audit Coordination: Lead internal and external audits related to wastewater compliance. Coordinate with regulatory inspectors during site visits, promptly addressing any findings or corrective action requests.

Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary liaison with environmental agencies, community stakeholders, and internal departments. Communicate compliance status, address concerns, and facilitate training on wastewater regulations and environmental policies.

Data Management & Record Keeping: Maintain comprehensive records of wastewater monitoring data, permits, inspections, and corrective actions. Utilize data management systems to track compliance trends and support continuous improvement efforts.

Training & Awareness: Develop and deliver training programs for staff on wastewater regulations, environmental compliance procedures, and best practices to ensure organizational adherence and awareness.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater), the client seeks a detail-oriented and proactive professional who is deeply committed to environmental protection and regulatory compliance. You should be a knowledgeable and resourceful individual capable of navigating complex wastewater regulations while ensuring operational adherence and sustainability.

Expertise in Wastewater Compliance and Environmental Regulations

The client values a candidate with solid experience in managing wastewater discharge permits, understanding local, state, and federal environmental laws, including the Clean Water Act and NPDES requirements. You should demonstrate a proven ability to interpret regulatory requirements and implement effective compliance strategies to prevent violations and environmental harm.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

You must possess strong analytical capabilities to accurately monitor wastewater quality, evaluate treatment processes, and identify potential compliance risks. The ideal candidate will be adept at data analysis, reporting, and using scientific approaches to troubleshoot and optimize wastewater management systems.

Strong Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

The client seeks someone who can effectively communicate with regulatory agencies, internal teams, and community stakeholders. Your ability to build collaborative relationships, clearly present compliance findings, and manage inspections or audits will be essential to this role.

Commitment to Environmental Stewardship and Continuous Improvement

A passion for sustainability and environmental protection is crucial. The client wants a professional dedicated to not only meeting regulatory requirements but also driving initiatives that reduce environmental impact, improve operational efficiency, and promote best practices in wastewater management.

Detail-Oriented with Excellent Organizational Skills

Managing complex documentation, permits, sampling schedules, and compliance reports requires exceptional organizational skills. The ideal candidate will be meticulous, ensuring all records are accurate, up to date, and readily available for audits or regulatory review.

Adaptability and Proactive Mindset

Environmental regulations and technologies evolve continuously. The client values a candidate who stays current with regulatory changes, embraces new technologies, and proactively updates compliance programs to meet emerging standards and challenges.

FAQs About the Role – Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) – Chicago, IL

1. What are the primary responsibilities of the Environmental Compliance Specialist in this role?
You will be responsible for managing wastewater compliance programs, ensuring adherence to local, state, and federal environmental regulations. This includes overseeing wastewater monitoring and reporting, coordinating inspections and audits, collaborating with operations teams to optimize treatment processes, and maintaining accurate documentation and permits.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate will have a background in environmental science, engineering, or a related field, with hands-on experience in wastewater regulatory compliance. Familiarity with Clean Water Act regulations, NPDES permits, and wastewater treatment processes is essential. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills are also required.

3. What key skills are important for success in this role?
Success requires a strong understanding of environmental regulations, data analysis, risk assessment, and process optimization. Excellent communication skills for engaging with regulatory agencies and internal teams are vital. You should also be detail-oriented, proactive in identifying compliance risks, and able to manage multiple priorities efficiently.

4. What challenges might I face as an Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater)?
Challenges include staying current with evolving environmental regulations, managing complex compliance data, coordinating timely reporting, and addressing unexpected compliance issues. Balancing regulatory demands with operational constraints and ensuring sustainable wastewater management can also be demanding.

5. How does this role contribute to the company’s overall mission?
This role is critical in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring the company meets all wastewater discharge requirements. Your work supports sustainable operations, regulatory compliance, and helps the company maintain a strong reputation with regulators and the community.

6. What is the typical work environment and culture for this position?
The company promotes a collaborative and compliance-focused culture with an emphasis on environmental stewardship and continuous improvement. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders in a supportive, safety-conscious environment.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As an Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) based in Chicago, IL, you can expect a competitive compensation package that reflects your expertise in environmental regulations, wastewater management, and compliance assurance. This role offers financial rewards aligned with industry standards and the critical nature of maintaining environmental compliance.

1. Base Salary

The base salary for an Environmental Compliance Specialist in the wastewater sector typically ranges from $65,000 to $95,000 annually, depending on your level of experience, education, certifications, and the size and type of the employing organization. Candidates with specialized skills or advanced degrees may command salaries at the higher end of this range.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Many organizations include performance bonuses tied to successful regulatory compliance, timely reporting, and improvements in wastewater treatment processes. These bonuses can range from 5% to 15% of your base salary, rewarding effective management of compliance programs and contributions to operational excellence.

3. Benefits Package

You can expect a comprehensive benefits package including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans such as 401(k) with company match
Paid time off and holiday leave
Professional development support and continuing education reimbursement
Life and disability insurance

4. Professional Certifications & Training Support

Some employers offer financial assistance or reimbursement for obtaining or maintaining relevant certifications such as Certified Environmental Specialist (CES) or Wastewater Treatment Operator licenses. This support can enhance your credentials and future earning potential.

5. Opportunities for Advancement and Salary Growth

With proven performance and experience, Environmental Compliance Specialists may progress into senior environmental roles, management positions, or specialized consultancy, leading to salary increases ranging from 10% to 30% or more.

6. Additional Perks

Certain organizations may provide additional perks, including:

Flexible work arrangements or remote work options
Wellness programs and employee assistance programs
Company-sponsored community or environmental initiatives
Travel allowances for site inspections or regulatory meetings

Total Compensation Outlook

Considering base salary, bonuses, and benefits, the total compensation package for an Environmental Compliance Specialist in Chicago typically falls between $70,000 and $110,000 per year. This reflects the growing demand for environmental professionals who can effectively navigate complex wastewater compliance landscapes while supporting sustainable operations.

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated environmental professional with expertise in wastewater compliance and a strong commitment to sustainable operations, we invite you to apply for the Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) position in Chicago, IL. This role offers a valuable opportunity to ensure regulatory adherence, protect the environment, and contribute to the company’s operational excellence.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience in wastewater regulatory compliance, environmental monitoring, risk assessment, and process optimization. Be sure to highlight your knowledge of Clean Water Act regulations, NPDES permits, and your ability to manage compliance programs effectively.

This position is ideal for a proactive specialist eager to drive continuous improvement and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve environmental stewardship goals. Apply today to take the next step in your environmental compliance career as an Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) in Chicago, IL!

For more information or to explore related environmental compliance opportunities, please visit our Wastewater Treatment Plant Recruiters page.

Job Category: Wastewater Treatment Plant

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Chicago

Environmental Compliance Specialist (Wastewater) – Chicago, IL