How to Be Environmental Services Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Cause: The need for efficient and effective cleaning services in businesses and healthcare facilities Effect: This has led to a growing demand for Environmental Services Technicians, who are responsible for providing these services. They use specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean, sanitize and disinfect areas, removing dirt, debris, and germs. Their duties also include disposing of medical waste, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and guidelines. In addition, they may be involved in pest control, laundry services, and other duties related to the maintenance of a clean environment.

Steps How to Become

  1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most environmental services technician positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Receive on-the-job training. Many employers provide on-the-job training for new environmental services technicians.
  3. Earn a postsecondary certificate or degree. While not always required, a postsecondary certificate or degree in environmental services, health science, or a related field may be beneficial.
  4. Obtain certifications. Some environmental services technicians may need to obtain certifications related to their specific job duties.
  5. Gain experience. Practical experience is important to becoming an effective environmental services technician.
  6. Stay current on industry trends. The field of environmental services is constantly evolving, so continuing education and keeping up with the latest industry trends can be beneficial.

The role of an Environmental Services Technician is to ensure that the environment is safe and healthy for all. They must be highly skilled and efficient in order to accomplish this. By being knowledgeable in various environmental regulations, they are able to identify potential risks and take the necessary steps to mitigate them.

they must have a good understanding of how different environmental elements can affect one another, so that they can develop effective strategies to protect the environment. Finally, they must be well-versed in various safety protocols and regulations to ensure that they are able to safely and effectively carry out their duties. Skilled and efficient Environmental Services Technicians are essential for creating and maintaining a safe and healthy environment for everyone.

You may want to check Environmental Research Scientist, Environmental Protection Scientist, and Environmental Health Officer for alternative.

Job Description

  1. Provide cleaning services for all areas of the facility, including but not limited to floors, walls, windows, furniture, and fixtures.
  2. Empty and clean waste receptacles and replace liners.
  3. Dust furniture, walls, fixtures and equipment.
  4. Operate buffing and other floor machines to clean, strip, buff, seal, finish, and polish floors.
  5. Wash walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
  6. Clean, disinfect and deodorize bathrooms and other areas.
  7. Replenish supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, and soap.
  8. Follow established safety procedures and techniques to perform job duties, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment when necessary.
  9. Monitor building security and safety by performing such tasks as locking doors after operating hours and checking electrical appliance use to ensure that hazards are not created.
  10. Set up and break down chairs, tables, and other equipment for events in accordance with instructions.
  11. Assist in the moving of furniture and equipment as needed.
  12. Perform minor maintenance tasks such as replacing light bulbs and air filters.
  13. Identify and report any necessary major repairs or additions to building operating systems.
  14. Assist in snow removal as needed.
  15. Follow instructions from supervisor regarding additional job duties as required.

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of cleaning methods, techniques, and materials.
  2. Ability to use cleaning equipment, such as vacuum cleaners, mops, and buffers.
  3. Good physical stamina and strength to complete tasks quickly and efficiently.
  4. Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures.
  5. Attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
  6. Respectful and professional demeanor when interacting with customers and colleagues.
  7. Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
  8. Knowledge of proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
  9. Ability to lift and move heavy objects.
  10. Good organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks.

The most important skill for an Environmental Services Technician is the ability to problem solve. Having the ability to identify and diagnose environmental issues quickly and accurately can mean the difference between a successful project and an environmental disaster. Good problem solving skills allow an Environmental Services Technician to develop effective solutions to complex issues such as mapping out street drainage systems, assessing land use for development projects, or monitoring hazardous waste sites.

this skill set helps them to understand the causes and effects of environmental issues, and how to prevent them from occurring in the future. Problem solving is a key factor in the success of any Environmental Services Technician, and will help them to continue to make a positive impact on the environment.

Environmental Protection Officer Coordinator, Environmental Protection Planner, and Environmental Inspector are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

  • What experience do you have working in environmental services?
  • How do you stay up-to-date on environmental regulations and standards?
  • Describe a time when you had to solve an environmental problem.
  • How do you ensure that environmental protocols are followed?
  • What safety measures do you take when working with hazardous materials?
  • How do you handle a situation when safety protocols are not being followed?
  • What methods do you use to control air pollution and water pollution?
  • How do you document environmental data and results?
  • What strategies do you use to reduce energy consumption and waste?
  • What challenges have you faced in the past when it comes to environmental services?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Vacuum Cleaner. A device used to clean carpets and floors, such as rugs, carpets, and hard surfaces (eg: Dyson V 11).
  2. Mop. A tool used to clean floors, often made of a handle attached to a long piece of fabric or a sponge (eg: O-Cedar Microfiber).
  3. Broom. A tool used to sweep floors, usually consisting of a long handle attached to a bundle of stiff bristles (eg: Libman Precision Angle Broom).
  4. Dustpan. A tool used to scoop up debris, usually consisting of a shallow bowl with a handle (eg: OXO Good Grips Dustpan and Brush Set).
  5. Window Cleaner. A tool used to clean windows, such as using a cloth or sponge (eg: Windex Original Glass Cleaner).
  6. Disinfectant. A chemical used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces (eg: Clorox Disinfecting Wipes).
  7. Scrub Brush. A tool used to scrub and clean surfaces, often made of hard plastic bristles (eg: Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Brush).
  8. Squeegee. A tool used to clean windows by pushing liquid off the glass surface (eg: Ettore Professional Window Cleaning Kit).

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES)
  2. Association for the Healthcare Environment (AHE)
  3. International Association for Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM)
  4. International Association of Healthcare Practitioners (IAHP)
  5. Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA)
  6. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
  7. American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
  8. American Institute of Architects (AIA)
  9. Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)
  10. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

We also have Environmental Protection Monitor, Environmental Technician, and Environmental Health and Safety Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

  1. Janitorial Services. These are services provided by janitors to clean and maintain buildings. This includes vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and other related tasks.
  2. Sanitation Services. These are services provided by sanitation workers to ensure that the environment is safe and clean. This may include garbage collection, waste management, sewage treatment, and other related services.
  3. Housekeeping Services. These are services provided by housekeepers to keep a space tidy and organized. This includes cleaning and maintaining furniture and fixtures, making beds, doing laundry, and other related tasks.
  4. Floor Care Services. These are services provided by floor care technicians to clean and maintain floors. This may include sweeping, mopping, waxing, buffing, and other related tasks.
  5. Pest Control Services. These are services provided by pest control technicians to prevent and eliminate pests from the environment. This may include trapping, baiting, spraying, and other related tasks.
  6. HVAC Services. These are services provided by HVAC technicians to maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This may include installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems.
  7. Window Cleaning Services. These are services provided by window cleaners to clean and maintain windows. This may include cleaning both interior and exterior windows, as well as repairing window frames and replacing seals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Environmental Services Technician?

An Environmental Services Technician is a professional who works to maintain a clean, healthy and safe environment by providing cleaning services, waste management, and other environmental services.

What qualifications are needed to become an Environmental Services Technician?

To become an Environmental Services Technician, one must typically possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and have knowledge of the principles of sanitation and hazardous materials management.

How much does an Environmental Services Technician earn?

The median annual salary for an Environmental Services Technician is approximately $33,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What are the primary duties of an Environmental Services Technician?

The primary duties of an Environmental Services Technician include cleaning and maintaining the interior and exterior of buildings, disposing of hazardous materials, performing minor repairs, and maintaining records of maintenance activities.

What type of environment does an Environmental Services Technician typically work in?

An Environmental Services Technician typically works in a variety of environments, including hospitals, schools, manufacturing plants, and office buildings.

Web Resources

  • Environmental Science Technician - Florida Gateway College www.fgc.edu
  • Free Environmental Technician Training Program - sfcc.edu www.sfcc.edu
  • Certificate in Environmental Technician - Guam Community College guamcc.edu
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