Stack Testing

Term from Environmental Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Stack Testing is a way to measure and analyze the emissions that come out of industrial chimneys or smokestacks. Think of it as a health check-up for factory emissions. Professionals who do this work collect samples of the air coming out of these stacks to make sure companies are following environmental rules and not releasing too many pollutants into the air. This type of work is also sometimes called "source testing" or "emissions testing." It's an important part of environmental compliance and helps companies prove they're meeting air quality regulations set by agencies like the EPA.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted over 50 Stack Testing projects at various industrial facilities

Led Stack Testing and Source Testing programs for major manufacturing clients

Performed Stack Testing, Emissions Testing, and data analysis for environmental compliance projects

Typical job title: "Stack Test Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Source Testing Specialist Air Emissions Tester Environmental Field Technician Stack Test Technician Air Quality Specialist Environmental Compliance Engineer Stack Sampling Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure quality control in stack testing projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, equipment calibration, proper sampling techniques, chain of custody procedures, and quality assurance measures to ensure accurate results.

Q: How would you handle a situation where test results show emissions exceed permitted limits?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication protocols with clients, documentation procedures, verification of results, and knowledge of regulatory reporting requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when conducting stack testing?

Expected Answer: Should mention personal protective equipment, working at heights safety, hot work procedures, and site-specific safety protocols.

Q: Explain your experience with different types of sampling equipment.

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common testing equipment, maintenance procedures, and proper setup for different types of emission tests.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in conducting a stack test?

Expected Answer: Should describe site preparation, equipment setup, sampling procedures, and basic documentation requirements.

Q: How do you maintain accurate records during testing?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic data recording procedures, field notes, chain of custody forms, and sampling documentation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic sampling techniques
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Safety procedures
  • Data collection and recording

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Project planning and execution
  • Multiple testing methods
  • Quality control procedures
  • Report writing and analysis

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Regulatory compliance expertise
  • Client relationship management
  • Team leadership and training

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Limited knowledge of safety procedures
  • No experience with quality control measures
  • Unfamiliarity with EPA methods and regulations
  • Poor documentation practices
  • No field testing experience