By Yvonne Rodriguez
Alumna at American Public University
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that environmental scientists and specialists have a positive outlook in job growth, 15% faster than other occupations. While I was studying for my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies, I was exposed to variety of career paths from wildlife biologist, forest rangers to environmental law and policy. Career paths were so broad, I needed help narrowing my search.
After recognizing additional skills and areas where I’ve excelled in such as writing, research and assessments, environmental due diligence became an attractive career option. Environmental due diligence helps avoid environmental risks of contamination in real estate which can impair cash flow, decline value of collateral, and cause foreclosure.
People in this field help borrowers by performing an All Appropriate Inquiries or Phase I Assessment in which they can use to seek protection under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Liability, and Compensation Act (CERCLA). Phase I Assessments reduce liability for borrowers and lenders as well as provide protection to landowners under the Innocent Landowner Defense.
I now work for an environmental due diligence consulting firm as a staff scientist whose primary role is to help identify the presence or likely presence of any hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at a property. Dry cleaners, underground storage tanks, and Industrial/manufacturing sites are common areas of concern. It’s also very common to assess multifamily properties and assisted living senior facilities.
After being assigned to a new project, I confirm site locations through tax assessor information, supplemental maps, and historical searches. I contact the site contact to schedule a visit to assess the property. I take photographs, interview the site contact and send Freedom of Information Act requests to local government agencies for health, fire and building records.
My goal is to identify risks in the past or present. After collecting historical information and information from my onsite reconnaissance, I generate a report of my findings and either recommend or not recommend further investigation.
There are a variety of career paths one can take with an environmental science degree. I recommend a career in environmental due diligence for those who enjoy writing, research, and watching a project come together or those interested in a career in project management. It’s a serious role for serious candidates; if a scientist fails to recognize an environmental condition, this can complicate real estate collateral and/or complicate environmental health and public safety.
I’m satisfied with my decision in pursuing this career field and looking forward to expanding my career in due diligence and help prevent borrowers from experiencing environmental risks to their valuable properties.
About the Author: Yvonne Rodriguez earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies with American Public University System in 2013 and is an Environmental Professional at Partner Engineering & Science, Inc.
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