Environment Technician / Technologist

• Enter and analyze data, write reports and help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and legislation
• Participate in multi-disciplinary projects, including hazardous materials survey, abatement and remediation activities, air monitoring, flora and fauna protection, waste audits, and environmental compliance audits
• Measure resources, including water, soil and air to monitor pollution levels
• Collect and analyze samples from the environment by conducting physical and chemical tests
• Control and manage hazardous materials and ensure the proper cleanup of polluted sites
• Support implementation of resource deposits and planning of new infrastructure and construction
• Manage laboratory equipment and materiel
• May conduct information or training sessions on environmental issues within the community or the mine

Environmental Technicians are paid on an annual basis. Depending on factors such as the location of the mine and the type of mineral or metal produced, annual salaries range from $51,000 - $143,000 (CostMine, 2014). In addition, Environmental Technicians often receive other benefits.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

Individuals who are attracted to this job tend to be responsible people who enjoy working with a challenging variety of routine and new tasks. Strongly committed to environmental protection, they like the outdoors and appreciate the opportunity to learn and work with new technologies.

Each year, MiHR researches the needs of the mining industry to hire Environmental Technicians. Based on 2015’s forecast, we are providing the following assessment of the Job Prospects in mining as well as an evaluation applicability of these skills in other sectors. Together, these measures will help future job seekers to make informed decisions about potential careers, based on the opportunities in the mining industry.

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

As an Environmental Technician you will inspect, maintain, control and manage hazardous waste and waste operations, collect samples, and assist with regulatory compliance and other duties. You will perform laboratory and field tests in order to monitor the environment and investigate any sources of pollution. Your work will involve travelling between multiple sites and you may have to investigate a chemical spill or perform water analysis in lakes or rivers. You will have to prepare information sessions and help to deliver training on environmental issues

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Overtime is generally not required but you may have opportunities to work overtime in return for extra compensation.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and hiking.

Many mines are situated in remote areas and require most employees to live in a mining camp. In these mines, employees usually work on a “fly-in, fly-out” schedule. When on-site, all of your living expenses would be covered, including meals. Trained chefs and kitchen staff generally prepare meals and some camps provide accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences. Many employees find they build strong bonds with their coworkers when living and working on-site.

Some camps are fairly basic, while others are well-equipped with gym, recreation, and internet facilities. Many camps provide a variety of training courses including language, yoga and First Aid. Fishing and hiking may or may not be permitted, depending on local regulations, licence requirements, and environmental considerations. Firearms are not permitted in mining camps.

Common traits that successful Environmental Technicians share are:

• Ability to identify issues and solve problems
• Ability to visualize completed projects
• Computer literacy
• Enjoys hands-on work
• Have a deep level of respect for, and understanding of, safety procedures, regulations and legislation
• Risk management skills
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong interest in natural sciences
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Works well in a team

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Many employers want to help job seekers build a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some ways that the mining industry may support you:

• Offer job placements, training and mentoring
• Welcome applicants with experience in other industries and countries
• Have incentives to attract women and Aboriginal peoples to mining education, training and employment
• Offer parental leave, housing incentives, or flexible schedules
• Provide professional development programs to support you and to develop career progression options

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

• Post-secondary diploma (2 – 3 years) related to the environment (e.g. natural resources sciences, wastewater treatment, pollution control, hydrology, ecology, toxicology, mineralogy, geology, land scape management and civil engineering)
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and email software
• Must be able to pass a medical test
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Willingness to work in a diverse environment
• Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirements

• Membership in the regulatory body to use the title "Professional Technologist"

May be Required

• International Organization for Standardization (ISO) ISO-14000 Environmental Standards certification
• Computer-based drafting and design experience in AutoCAD or mining specific software
• Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certification

Assets

• Willingness to relocate
• Other languages