To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed in this document are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Incumbent serves as the Hazardous Materials Team Commander in the Porter County Emergency Management Agency, responsible for responding to chemical emergencies and providing educational information/presentations to the public regarding hazardous materials.
DUTIES:
Investigates public or agency reports or complaints, including, but not limited to, hazardous materials spills, underground storage tank problems, unusual emissions and dumping or discharges; determines validity and nature of problem and acts appropriately to contain and/or neutralize materials, and otherwise minimize or prevent damage to the area.
Performs follow-up inspections of sites to determine whether additional action is required, and to ensure compliance with directives.
Prepares, implements and trains personnel in various County offices in Hazardous Communications Standards, Confined Space Entry Procedures and other Health and Safety regulations as needed.
Performs routine inspections of County facilities storing various types of hazardous materials, to determine and enforce compliance with state and federal laws.
Reviews documentation provided by contractors to assure compliance with regulations.
Prepares daily reports and appropriate documentation of investigations, follow-ups and inspections detailing findings, actions taken, damage incurred and related information.
Coordinates monthly training sessions for members of the Porter County Hazmat Team, instructing them in appropriate procedures, maintenance of equipment and protective gear.
Conducts emergency response training sessions for area law enforcement and fire departments several times a year.
Meets with local officials, industries and organizations to discuss projects, new policies, procedures, problems and compliance with regulations.
Maintains current knowledge of emergency response techniques and procedures thorough frequent research/reference of professional journals and manuals.
Assists other counties or agencies with chemical emergency response as needed
Assists County Departments to obtain compliance with EPA, IDEM and OSHA regulations.
Processes requests for information and environmental audits for realtors, engineers, loaning institutions, engineers and law firms.
Assists with and/or conducts a variety of special projects for IDEM and EPA, such as compliance/enforcement programs and groundwater data collection.
Oversees response and maintenance of County-wide Hazardous Materials Mobile Command Center and Response Vehicle.
Prepares bills and invoices to recuperate expenses occurred by the county.
Periodically attends specialized training and certification courses.
Serves on 24-hour call for emergencies.
Assists Porter County Emergency Management Agency Command Staff as required.
All other duties as assigned by the Director of Emergency Management.
I. JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Thorough knowledge of a broad range of federal, state and local rules, regulations and laws governing storage, handling, containment and neutralization of hazardous materials, and ability to complete initial and ongoing certification and training programs and physical exams as required by NFPA/OSHA regulations.
Must be certified to the NFPA Hazardous Material Technician Level (minimum) and hold Indiana State Certification as a Hazardous Material Technician.
Working knowledge of basic chemistry and ability to take proper laboratory samples for analysis.
Ability to prepare and maintain appropriate reports and documentation of Department activities.
Ability to prepare and present educational programs and materials to a variety of groups.
Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing with co-workers, local, state and federal personnel, local fire and law enforcement personnel, other emergency response groups and members of the public, including being sensitive to professional ethics, gender, cultural diversities and disabilities.
Ability to properly use and maintain all Department equipment, including protective clothing.
Ability to meet all departmental hiring and retention requirements, including not posing a direct threat to the health and safety of other individuals in the workplace or community.
Ability to perform field duties involving moderate to heavy lifting and carrying, walking on varied terrain, and exposure to toxic materials, hazardous materials and inclement weather.
Ability to work irregular and extended hours during emergency situations. Ability to serve on 24-hour call and respond swiftly, rationally and decisively to emergencies.
Possession of a valid driver’s license and demonstrated safe driving record.
II. DIFFICULTY OF WORK:
Incumbent performs emergency response and educational duties according to numerous laws and regulations, as well as the standard and technical practices of the field. Determination of appropriate emergency response involves consideration of numerous variables. Judgement is also necessary to provide training and educate the public.
III. RESPONSIBILITIES:
Incumbent’s duties may affect County residents in spill areas, local industry/businesses and Hazardous Materials Team personnel. Duties primarily involve implementation of established policy, with work reviewed for compliance with legal requirements. Unusual problems or situations are referred to supervisor for consultation.
IV. PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:
Incumbent maintains frequent communication with local, state and federal government agencies, local fire prevention and law enforcement personnel, local industries and business owners, other county emergency response groups, co-workers and members of the public for a variety of purposes, including determining compliance with applicable laws, coordinating emergency response duties, providing training and investigating complaints.
Incumbent reports directly to the Director of Porter County Emergency Management.
V. PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Incumbent performs duties in the field and in an office environment, subject to a wide variety of toxins and hazardous materials while on emergency calls. Emergency situations require moderate to heavy lifting and carrying of equipment, protective clothing, and storage units, and exposure to varied terrain and inclement weather. Incumbent serves on 24-call for emergencies and often works extended, evening and/or weekend hours during emergencies.
Pay: $86,770.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Safety equipment provided
Work Location: In person
