Experience Inc. Jobs

Job Summary

The Environmental Inspector job family consists of four positions: Environmental Inspector 1 (EI1), Environmental Inspector 2 (EI2), Senior Environmental Inspector (SEI), and Lead Environmental Inspector (LEI).

The LEI position is distinct within the Environmental Inspector job family because it is not a progression step, but a distinct role that builds on the requirements of SEI by adding coordination and administrative responsibilities for a group of inspectors. These responsibilities include developing and delivering training, mentoring less experienced colleagues, implementing quality control practices, coordinating group tasks and assignments, communicating project coverage requirements, representing the inspector group during stakeholder collaboration, promoting safety, driving premier performance, and supporting the Team Leader as requested. The need for and location of the LEI position will be determined by the company and will be based on functional need within the organization.

Employees in the job family will be expected to use their professional judgment and expertise as subject matter experts to document their conclusions in written reports, compile photographic evidence of compliance or non-compliance, certify findings as required by law, evaluate the adequacy of environmental plans based on site conditions, assess whether environmental requirements are satisfied and communicate technical elements of plans and regulations to stakeholders. Their responsibility further includes, but is not limited to, developing corrective actions to resolve instances of non-compliance, instructing site personnel on how to implement best management practices, and recommending improvements to designs in order to enhance environmental performance and lower the risks of adverse events.

Positions involve technical skill and specialized knowledge in areas of environmental compliance involving electric and gas construction, legal requirements, best management practices for stormwater, management of potential pollutants, and understanding of applicable standards and policies. The work involves daily visits to project sites and typically includes driving, walking, writing, using digital devices (computer, tablet, smartphone), and verbal communication. Work outside of a standard work schedule may be required to comply with permit conditions or to monitor activities that pose a high environmental risk to NiSource. Job location will be an assigned region within the company's footprint but may sometimes require travel to and work in other areas of the company. Employees will work independently but also in collaboration with operations, engineering, construction, health, safety, and environmental colleagues in the performance of their duties.

Essential Functions

• Lead technical reviews of Environmental Compliance Plans at preconstruction meetings.

• Explain environmental training & certification requirements applicable to construction personnel.

• Perform environmental compliance inspections and audits as requested or as required by policies, plans and permits including completing reports, taking photos and documenting observations.

• Propose & document corrective actions for problem areas and non-conforming activities.

• Provide technical guidance and respond to questions about environmental plans, BMPs, procedures, and protocols

• Communicate inspection findings to stakeholders.

• Evaluate erosion and sediment control plans, propose changes to plans when conditions warrant, implement document control practices for plan revisions, and certify plan amendments as required.

• Develop and implement proposals for continuous improvement.

• Investigate delineations, field-staking, and contingency alternatives during construction as required.

• Assess installation of all project signage and environmental flagging and ensure work remains within designated work areas and outside of sensitive resource areas.

• Audit installation, maintenance, and removal of erosion and sediment control measures and construction crossings of sensitive habitat for compliance with applicable standards and best practices.

• Inspect water resource crossings for proper installation of environmental controls, development of contingency plans, completion of checklists and performance of restoration activities.

• Communicate requirements for cultural, wildlife and botanical specialists and coordinate mobilization of resource specialists to specific areas as required.

• Guide implementation of unanticipated discovery protocols, including incident reporting, deployment of containment measures, and implementation of response and management plans.

• Inspect for evidence of spills and other contamination and if detected, facilitate Contractor spill response, including reports listing material(s) involved, quantity and location.

• Assess implementation of topsoil segregation requirements, dust control measures, water quality requirements, sensitive resource protection measures, and other environmental protection measures.

• Verify weed-free certificates for seed used in site restoration.

• Inspect rough and finish grading for restoration of contours and topsoil.

• Monitor handling and disposal of wastes generated at project sites.

• Monitor management and disposal of spoils generated at project sites.

• Monitor and document reclamation and habitat restoration efforts, including installation of the appropriate seed mix and mulch per project specifications. Restoration will include reseeding of native prairie, streams and wetlands.

• Monitor sampling and lab analysis results of water, soils and materials encountered at project sites and assess whether plans and management practices are adequate for compliance

• Assess sites for soil compaction and oversee decompaction and restoration of agricultural lands.

• Operate motor vehicle safely during all travel for work.

• Provide inspections, site coverage or other support outside the normal work day or work area, including overnight stays when assigned.

• Provide expertise and professional judgement on issues of environmental compliance during bid-walkdowns, constructability reviews, and scoping meetings.

• Deliver instruction, training, and presentations on environmental topics applicable to the work.

• Maintain all required certifications and credentials.

• Lead Environmental InspectorRecognized subject matter expertPossess vehicle operator’s licensePhysically capable of moving about on construction sites and utility right-of-waysMinimum five (5) years’ experience in environmental or stormwater inspection including two (2) years experience in utility construction with supervisory experience preferredBachelor degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources/Management, Ecology or related fieldPossess EnviroCert International CESSWI or CPESC Certification as well as any state required certificationPossess OQs required by NiSourceManages large projects or processesSolves complex problems; takes a broad perspective to identify solutionsWorks independently, with guidance in only the most complex situationsCoaches, reviews and delegates work to professionals with less experienceRoutinely influences others regarding policies, practices and proceduresProvides leadership and expansive technical expertise while performing all required duties & responsibilitiesTakes career into management path with addition of team leadership duties and responsibilities

• Additional Duties and Responsibilities of Lead Environmental Inspector:Provide training, continuous improvement, coaching and development of EIs in skills important to their work.Participate in EI candidate interviews and provide hiring recommendations.Evaluate EI safety performance to ensure appropriate use of equipment, tools & PPE.Evaluate EI inspection reports for quality & completeness.Conduct job observations of EIs and document performance.Contribute to root cause analysis of process and compliance failures.Implement initiatives, deliver communications and solve challenges for assigned team of EIs.Represent environmental inspection at construction, engineering, project management and safety meetings.Organize and coordinate meetings and calls as directed.Coordinate closely with Team Leader on assignment and scheduling of work to ensure effective EI coverage and that applicable deadlines are met.

Required Qualifications For Position

• Bachelors degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources/Management, Ecology or related field

• 5 years environmental or stormwater inspection work experience

• 2 years experience in utility construction with supervisory experience

• Demonstrated experience with and understanding of utility construction

• Experience with group facilitation and information gathering

• Ability to attain Enviro-Cert QSM or CESSWI Certifications

• Ability to attain NiSource required Operator Qualifications

• Ability to attain State issued stormwater and/or land disturbance inspector certification, if applicable

• Analytical, planning, organization, and verbal/written communication skills

• Demonstrated public speaking and presentation skills

• Ability to drive and monitor continuous improvement and associated change management

• Ability to drive execution using a formal methodology

• Demonstrated knowledge and ability to quickly assess and make sound decisions

• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization

• Ability to gather and analyze data to make informed decisions

• Ability to accurately obtain, interpret, and transcribe a variety of communications and instructions

• Ability to recognize and evaluate risks, hazards, losses and prevent conflicts between activities

• Ability to learn software programs & technology tools

• Proficiency in the Microsoft suite, in particular Excel and Power Point.

• Ability to collaborate in a remote working environment

• Posses a vehicle operator’s license

• Physically capable of moving about on construction sites and utility right-of-ways

• State issued stormwater and/or land disturbance inspection certification, if applicable

• Demonstrated applications of Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action planning

• Knowledge of safety, environmental compliance & natural resource permitting requirements

• Demonstrated experience with and understanding of utility construction

• Understanding of environmental compliance and installation methods for horizontal directional drill bores under water resources

• Understanding of environmental compliance and installation methods for open trench excavations through water resources

• Knowledge of erosion and sediment control best management practices and industry standards

• Knowledge of stabilization and seeding specifications.

• Demonstrated skill in reading and interpreting project plans and construction drawings

• Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position

• 5 years environmental or stormwater inspection experience

• 2 years experience in utility construction with supervisory experience

• Demonstrated applications of Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action planning

• Enviro-Cert CESSWI or CPESC Certification

• State issued stormwater and/or land disturbance inspection certification, if applicable

• Physical Demands The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

Inclusion & Diversity

Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect and take into consideration diversity within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represent all walks of life and all backgrounds.

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Salary Range:

$77,400.00 - $116,200.00

Posting Start Date:

2024-04-26

Posting End Date (if applicable):

2024-05-11

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

At NiSource, you'll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers.

We're looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.