Position SummaryThe Environmental Specialist is responsible for ensuring that mining operations comply with environmental laws, regulations, permits, and company standards. This role supports sustainable mining practices by monitoring environmental performance, managing permits, coordinating environmental programs, and working closely with operations to minimize environmental impacts throughout the mine lifecycle.
Job ResponsibilitiesReporting to the Chief Green Officer, the Environmental Specialist will
be responsible for the following:
- Ensure compliance with local, national, and international environmental regulations related to mining operations.
- Maintain and manage environmental permits, licenses, and approvals.
- Prepare and submit regulatory reports (air, water, waste, land disturbance, reclamation, etc.).
- Serve as a point of contact for environmental regulators and inspectors.
- Conduct or oversee environmental monitoring programs (surface water, groundwater, air quality, noise, soil, biodiversity).
- Review monitoring data and identify trends, risks, and non-compliances.
- Investigate environmental incidents and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Support environmental risk assessments and impact mitigation measures.
- Support implementation of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and ISO 14001 requirements.
- Assist with mine closure, reclamation, and rehabilitation planning.
- Coordinate waste management, hazardous materials handling, and spill prevention programs.
- Support water management, tailings management, and erosion control initiatives.
- Provide environmental training and awareness programs for mine employees and contractors.
- Promote environmental best practices across site operations.
- Assist in developing environmental procedures, standards, and guidelines.
- Participate in internal and external environmental audits.
- Track corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to sustainability reporting and ESG performance metrics.
- Other duties as assigned.
Skills and Qualifications- 10+ years' experience, in a mining related field preferred.
- Experience working with environmental permits and regulatory agencies.
- Knowledge of mine-related environmental issues (water management, tailings, waste rock, reclamation).
- Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and compliance requirements
- Experience with environmental monitoring and data interpretation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a site-based environment.
- Strong organizational and reporting skills.
Education- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Geology, Mining Engineering, or a related field.
Physical Requirements- Exposure to loud noise, dust, heavy machinery, and uneven terrain.
- Some lifting and strength are required when working in a plant.
Salary: $95,000 - $120,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with an HSA option.
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match.
- LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.
- Paid Time Off (PTO):
- 0-5 Years: 120 hours per year.
- 5-10 Years: 160 hours per year.
- 10+ Years: 200 hours per year.
- Plus 11 paid holiday.
