Remote Freelance Environmental Science Jobs in California

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Tetra Tech is seeking a self-motivated, Entry-Level Environmental Scientist / Compliance Specialist to support and expand our landfill and air quality compliance services within the solid waste industry. This position is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in air regulations, landfill gas systems, emissions compliance, and environmental data analysis.

In this role, you will support regulatory compliance programs by analyzing field and operational data, interpreting air quality regulations and permit requirements, preparing compliance reports, and assisting with air permitting and emissions calculations. The primary focus areas include landfill gas monitoring, Surface Emissions Monitoring (SEM), Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFGTE) Systems, air quality permitting, and compliance with New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations applicable to solid waste facilities.

This position is primarily remote, with limited, as-needed travel or occasional site visits. Only those in PST or MST will be considered. Candidates must be comfortable working independently with limited supervision while collaborating with project managers, field staff, engineers, and regulatory specialists across geographically dispersed teams.

This position is eligible for our full benefits package including but not limited to Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Spending Account (HSA), My Flex Time (MFT - paid time off), 401K, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. The pay range for this position is $55K-$75K annually, based on qualifications, location, and experience. Only those that attach a cover letter will be considered. The deadline to apply is 09/3/2026. 

Your Role:

• Review, analyze, and interpret landfill air quality and landfill gas monitoring data, including wellfield data, SEM, and air emissions datasets. 
• Compare monitoring and operational data against regulatory standards, permit limits, and NSPS/NESHAP criteria to assess compliance.
• Prepare environmental compliance reports, including air compliance summaries, monitoring reports, deviation analyses, and regulatory submittals. 
• Support the development and preparation of air quality permit applications, amendments, and renewals, including emission calculations and regulatory compliance demonstrations. 
• Collect, manage, track, and organize large datasets related to air emissions, landfill gas, SEM results, and compliance deadlines. 
• Develop and maintain templates, trackers, and tools to support consistent, accurate, and timely reporting for multiple facilities / landfills. 
• Coordinate with on-site operations, technicians, and subcontractors to confirm that monitoring, testing, and system performance meet regulatory and permit requirements. 
• Support Project Managers with deliverables, schedules, and client coordination including procurement of supplies, subcontractor coordination and Work Order development.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary teams on engineering, permitting, and environmental projects.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including technical and regulatory writing.
• Proficiency in MS Office - specifically Word and Excel.
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment, demonstrate initiative, and manage multiple priorities with limited supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with field staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability and willingness to perform limited travel as required.
• Interest and ability in developing technical and leadership skills within the Environmental Compliance field.