SPCC

Term from Environmental Consulting industry explained for recruiters

SPCC stands for Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure. It's a set of rules and plans that companies must follow to prevent oil spills from reaching water sources. Think of it as a safety playbook that helps businesses store and handle oil properly. Environmental professionals create and update these plans to keep facilities compliant with environmental laws. This is particularly important for places that store large amounts of oil, like manufacturing plants, construction sites, or transportation facilities.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and implemented SPCC plans for 12 industrial facilities

Conducted monthly SPCC inspections and employee training sessions

Updated Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure documentation for manufacturing clients

Typical job title: "Environmental Compliance Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Environmental Specialist Environmental Consultant EHS Specialist Environmental Compliance Officer SPCC Plan Writer Environmental Project Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage SPCC compliance for multiple facilities with different needs?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should include experience coordinating multiple site assessments, developing customized plans, managing implementation timelines, and ensuring consistent compliance across various locations while considering each facility's unique requirements.

Q: Describe a challenging SPCC implementation you've managed and how you resolved it.

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show leadership in problem-solving, stakeholder management, and practical solutions to compliance challenges, including budget considerations and timeline management.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements you look for when conducting an SPCC inspection?

Expected Answer: Should mention checking containment systems, reviewing maintenance records, inspecting storage tanks, verifying training documentation, and ensuring proper labeling and safety equipment is in place.

Q: How do you ensure facility personnel maintain SPCC compliance between inspections?

Expected Answer: Should discuss training programs, creating easy-to-follow procedures, regular communication with facility staff, and establishing clear reporting systems for incidents or concerns.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of an SPCC plan?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a document required by law to prevent oil spills from reaching water, including basic elements like facility description, prevention measures, and response procedures.

Q: What types of facilities typically require SPCC plans?

Expected Answer: Should identify facilities storing more than 1,320 gallons of oil above ground or 42,000 gallons underground, such as manufacturing plants, construction sites, and transportation facilities.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of environmental regulations
  • Ability to conduct routine inspections
  • Documentation and report writing
  • Basic site assessment skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • SPCC plan development and updates
  • Training program delivery
  • Compliance auditing
  • Stakeholder communication

Senior (5+ years)

  • Multiple facility management
  • Program development and implementation
  • Regulatory agency coordination
  • Team leadership and project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of current EPA regulations
  • Inability to explain basic spill prevention measures
  • Lack of field inspection experience
  • Poor understanding of documentation requirements