CERCLA
CERCLA, also known as Superfund, is a major environmental law that deals with cleaning up contaminated sites. It was created in 1980 to help identify and clean up areas that have been polluted by hazardous waste. Environmental consultants often work with this law because it sets the rules for who is responsible for cleanup costs and how the cleanup should be done. Similar programs include RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) and state-level cleanup programs. When you see CERCLA on a resume, it usually means the person has experience with environmental site assessments, cleanup projects, or helping clients navigate environmental regulations.
Examples in Resumes
Managed CERCLA site investigations and cleanup activities at three major industrial properties
Prepared compliance reports for Superfund sites in accordance with EPA guidelines
Led risk assessments and remediation planning for multiple CERCLA and Superfund projects
Typical job title: "Environmental Consultants"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Environmental Consultants
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a complex CERCLA site cleanup project?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss experience coordinating with multiple stakeholders, understanding of investigation phases, risk assessment, remediation planning, and budget management. They should mention experience dealing with regulatory agencies and managing client relationships.
Q: Describe your experience with cost recovery under CERCLA.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of liability principles, experience negotiating with potentially responsible parties (PRPs), and knowledge of how cleanup costs are allocated. Should mention experience with legal documentation and settlement agreements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What is your experience with environmental site assessments under CERCLA?
Expected Answer: Should explain their role in conducting site investigations, sampling procedures, and report writing. Should demonstrate understanding of the different phases of site assessment and basic remediation strategies.
Q: How do you determine if a site might fall under CERCLA regulations?
Expected Answer: Should explain the basic criteria for CERCLA sites, including types of contamination, potential risks, and regulatory thresholds. Should demonstrate knowledge of initial site screening processes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is CERCLA and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of CERCLA as the Superfund law, its purpose in cleaning up contaminated sites, and the general process of site assessment and cleanup.
Q: What types of documentation are typically required for CERCLA projects?
Expected Answer: Should show familiarity with basic reporting requirements, including site investigation reports, sampling plans, and cleanup progress documentation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of environmental regulations
- Assist with site investigations
- Help prepare environmental reports
- Support sample collection and analysis
Mid (2-5 years)
- Lead site investigations
- Manage small to medium cleanup projects
- Prepare compliance documentation
- Coordinate with regulatory agencies
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management of large CERCLA sites
- Expert knowledge of environmental regulations
- Risk assessment and remediation planning
- Client and stakeholder management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic environmental regulations
- Lack of field experience in site assessment
- Poor understanding of documentation requirements
- No experience with environmental sampling or monitoring
Related Terms
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