Brownfield Specialist

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a senior brownfields specialist to join one of our Michigan offices and undertake challenging and progressive work in the brownfields market. Assignments may include working as an individual or as part of a project team to assist with performing or coordinating the completion of ASTM Phase I environmental site assessments in support of property transactions (e.g., acquisitions, divestitures); designing, implementing, and coordinating activities associated with Phase II investigations, including investigating contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, and vapor intrusion; developing site management strategies and response action plans (RAPs), including conducting remediation technology evaluations and feasibility studies and estimating costs associated with these types of activities; responding to quotes and proposals; and engaging with local professional organizations in the market.

The ideal candidate for this position is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn, and comfortable asking thoughtful questions. They bring a high level of attention to detail and take ownership of assigned tasks in dynamic field and office conditions. They demonstrate reliability, safety awareness, and a growth mindset as they build their technical skills and professional judgment. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity in delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: Apply advanced environmental science, geology, and engineering expertise to lead ASTM Phase I assessments, Phase II investigations, and remediation of soil, sediment, groundwater, and vapor intrusion. Evaluate data and site conditions to develop response action plans, remediation strategies, feasibility studies, and cost estimates
• Project management: Coordinate environmental reviews, field investigations, subcontractors, and project logistics. Manage scope, budgets, schedules, permitting, and deliverables; contribute to proposals; and keep clients informed of progress, milestones, and recommendations.
• Problem Solving: Assess environmental data, site conditions, and regulatory requirements to develop practical, cost-effective investigation, remediation, permitting, and compliance strategies that address project challenges and support client objectives.
• Communication: Oversee and review field reports, technical documents, regulatory submittals, proposals, and client correspondence. Clearly present findings, compliance status, and recommendations to project teams, clients, subcontractors, and regulators.
• Interpersonal savvy: Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients to align technical work with project objectives while fostering strong, productive working relationships. Mentor junior and mid-level staff, delegate effectively, and support professional growth, practice development, and knowledge sharing.

About the opportunity

• Hybrid: A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor, Michigan, offices.
• Travel expectation: Willingness to travel and periodically adjust personal schedule to meet project needs (including up to 5% travel and up to 10% fieldwork expected; project needs will vary seasonally and over time).

• Work environment: Ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain typical of construction sites and may also require entering and working in facilities that include limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Job assignments may involve work on waste disposal sites and sites requiring cleanup of hazardous materials. An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required. Safety training will be provided. Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements for the role will include:

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).
• Must be able to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.
• Must be able to work individually in remote locations.
• Ability to safely operate or work around environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.
• Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in geology, environmental science, engineering, or a related degree.
• Experience: 10 or more years of relevant experience, including strong working knowledge of Michigan EGLE regulations as well as Part 201 guidance.
• Software: strong computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Driver’s license: Possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• Previous consulting experience.
• 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER) certification.
• Project management and leadership experience with complex projects.
• Experience conducting communications, meetings, and negotiations with clients and regulatory agency personnel.
• Experience with staff mentoring, building client relationships, and business development.

Compensation: anticipated range of $90,000–$110,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

#LI-Hybrid

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.