Senior Environmental Program Specialist

About the Role

This position is based in Port Newark but occasional travel to other Port facilities in Newark, Elizabeth, Bayonne, Jersey City and Staten Island will be required. The successful candidate must be able to respond to any facility for all emergencies including those that are weather-related, and any other declared agency or facility emergency.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Manager, Port Physical Plant, the incumbent is responsible for administering environmental programs and projects necessary to protect the interests of the Port Department and assuring compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. This includes providing technical and regulatory information to facility management staff and tenants on all environmental issues, ensuring proper notification is made to regulatory authorities in the event of environmental incidents and/or discharges, and providing technical assistance and regulatory information to emergency responders and facility management during incidents and/or discharges.  The incumbent will be responsible for managing the following environmental program areas: under- and above-ground storage tanks compliance, environmental permit compliance and administration, materials/waste management, surface and ground water pollution control management, air emissions, hazardous materials management, sustainability measures, utility monitoring, and environmental occupational health issues.  In addition, the incumbent will assist in preparation of operations reports, work with staff to identify industry best practices for initial, refresher and on-going training for maintenance trades, management analyses that promote efficiencies and productivity at the facility level, oversee environmental components of tenant leases throughout Port Facilities, coordinate activities related to hydrographic surveys necessary for maintenance dredging activities and fender repairs in conjunction with the Capital & Port Planning Group  and the Resident Engineer’s Office. The incumbent will serve as facility representative/coordinator for the Environmental Management Program for the Port Facilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental or natural sciences, maritime transportation, business or other related field from an accredited college or university.
• A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in environmental management or related discipline.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Selected candidate will be required to pass a Federal Security Background check and obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) to work in a maritime environment as required by Department of Homeland Security.
• Selected candidate will be required to obtain Certification as a Facility Security Officer within one year of appointment to position.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete HAZWOPPER training within 6 months of appointment to position.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of environmental regulations and federal/state government processes.
• In-depth knowledge of the Port Authority organization, policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Port Authority operating policies and procedures, specifically those related to facility operations.
• Demonstrated ability to handle environmental emergency situations.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize projects, manage time effectively and work independently.
• Demonstrated analytic and problem-solving skills, and ability to take initiative.
• Demonstrated interpersonal, organization and written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work with individuals at all levels, both from within and outside the organization.
• Proficiency in the use of SAP, PeopleSoft, and Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of the maritime industry is desirable.

Selection Process

The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation & Benefits

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package, hybrid work options for many positions, and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.