Hazardous Materials Specialist I/II

Under direct or general supervision, performs a variety of technical to complex monitoring inspection, and compliance in the administration of the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA), which implements hazardous materials business plan, hazardous waste generators, onsite hazardous waste treatment, underground storage tanks, Aboveground Petroleum Storage (APSA), and California Accidental Release Prevention Program (CalARP) programs; identifies violations of codes and regulations, ;conducts field inspections; collects and records data; prepares reports; maintains a variety of records and files; and performs related duties as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics
Hazardous Materials Specialist I: This is the entry-level classification in the Hazardous Materials Specialist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic experience learn City systems, operations, practices, and procedures. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Hazardous Materials Specialist II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. 

Hazardous Materials Specialist II: This is the journey-level classification in the Hazardous Materials Specialist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Hazardous Materials Specialist I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. 

Positions in the Hazardous Materials Specialist class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the Hazardous Materials Specialist II-level are normally filled by advancement from the Hazardous Materials Specialist I-level; progression to the Hazardous Materials Specialist II-level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the Hazardous Materials Specialist II-level.
 
Supervision Exercised and Received:
Receives direct supervision (Hazardous Materials Specialist I) or general supervision (Hazardous Materials Specialist II) from the Hazardous Materials Supervisor. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

Examples of Typical Job Functions
The typical job functions of the classification may include, but are not limited to, the functions below and are subject to changes in operational necessity.
Positions at the I-level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

• Performs routine and non-routine inspections and associated technical tasks in the administration and implementation of the City’s Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) program which include: Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA); Area Plans for hazardous materials emergencies; California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) for extremely hazardous substances, including toxic and flammable materials; Hazardous Materials Business Plans for onsite handling of hazardous materials; Hazardous Waste/Universal Waste Generator and Onsite Hazardous Waste Treatment; and Underground Storage Tanks.   
• Responds to and investigates inquiries/complaints and agency referrals related to the handling, storage, or disposal of hazardous materials  .
• Communicates with facility representatives about regulatory violations, enforcement actions, waste minimization and industrial and commercial stormwater controls..
• Reviews Risk Management Plans and inspects and audits industrial facilities covered under the California Accidental Release Program.
• Reviews Hazardous Materials Business Plans and Hazardous Waste Generator Registrations submitted through the California Environmental Reporting System (CERS) for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with applicable state and federal codes and regulations.
• Conducts plan reviews for new construction/alteration to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations including the hazardous materials provisions of the California Fire Code.
• Permits, inspects, and oversees the installation and removal of underground hazardous materials storage tank systems.
• Perform related duties as required. For detailed information about the job classification, visit: Hazardous Materials Specialist I/II.

Experience and Education Guidelines
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would most likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: Educational requirements as specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 27 §15260. Equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university or equivalent degree with major course work in one of the following disciplines of biology or microbiology, chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, physical science, environment science, geology or soil science, environmental health, environmental or sanitary engineering, toxicology, industrial hygiene, hazardous materials management, fire science or fire technology.

Experience: 
Hazardous Materials Specialist I: One (1) year of experience in hazardous materials, industrial waste management, environmental regulatory programs, environmental science, or a related field.

Hazardous Materials Specialist II: Two (2) years of experience in hazardous materials, industrial waste management, environmental regulatory programs, environmental science equivalent to an Hazardous Materials Specialist I with the City of San Leandro.

Certifications:
Hazardous Materials Specialist I:

• Possession of a 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certificate issued by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA), to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession by the end of probationary period and ongoing maintenance of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA)/SPCC Inspector certificate issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshall.

Hazardous Materials Specialist II: 

• Possession of a 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certificate issued by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA), to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of an Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA)/SPCC Inspector certificate issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshall, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of an Underground Storage Tank Inspector certificate issued by the International Code Council, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Completion of the technical expertise and training requirements required at CCR 27 §15260.

Wondering what to expect during the recruitment process?  Visit the City's Job Opportunities page.

SELECTION PROCESS: The following dates are tentative and subject to change based on the needs of the hiring department:

Deadline to Apply:	November 26, 2026 5:00 PM
Review of Applications:	Ongoing
Interviews	Mid-December 2026

The City of San Leandro is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information regarding ADA accommodations or Veteran's preference, please visit the City's FAQ page.