What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Assistant position at The Gowan Co.?
Position Summary:
The Environmental Assistant is responsible for assisting with waste categorization, operation of waste processing equipment, and supporting the environmental operations at Gowan Milling. This role involves handling waste and recyclable materials, preparing containers for production use, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. The Environmental Assistant works closely with the Environmental Operations Supervisor to maintain a safe and efficient work environment.
Job Status:
- Full-Time
- Non-Exempt
- Reports to: Environmental Operations Supervisor
Role Responsibilities:
- Categorize and label waste by type for proper disposal or recycling.
- Operate waste processing equipment, including horizontal and vertical balers, drum crushers, reciprocating saws, and stormwater pumps.
- Operate a forklift to load trucks for shipping waste and recyclable materials.
- Prepare empty containers for use by the production department, including palletizing, painting, removing old labels, and cleaning containers.
- Act as backup for custodial tasks when required.
- Participate in weekly safety meetings and contribute to a safe working environment aligned with Gowan Milling’s safety goals.
Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience / Skills / Abilities:
- Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions.
- Bilingual skills preferred.
- Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including half-face and full-face respirators, Tyvek suits, grounding straps, and eye protection.
- Basic math and communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with all levels of management and staff.
- Ability to prioritize responsibilities and work independently.
- Working knowledge of company policies related to safety, environmental, and quality systems.
Job Expectations / Working Conditions:
- Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time.
- Ability to operate forklifts for extended periods.
- Regularly required to ascend/descend stairs.
- Ability to lift items up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
- Frequent bending, reaching, squatting, pulling, and pushing required.
- Ability to work outdoors in extreme temperatures throughout the year.
