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Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians

SOC 17-3025.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers environmental field investigation, laboratory sample management, remediation system monitoring, regulatory compliance reporting, and organizational technical leadership within Architecture & Engineering and environmental consulting industry contexts calibrated to Job Zone 4.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Project logbooks and computer program files — maintain under direct supervision using established templates on active environmental monitoring projects.
  2. Field and laboratory data including numerical results, photographs, and visual observations — record accurately following standardized protocols at regulated field sites.
  3. Environmental quality tasks in office and field settings — perform under technician guidance using prescribed checklists and safety procedures.
  4. Pollution samples from air, soil, and groundwater matrices — collect using designated sampling equipment under the direction of a licensed environmental engineer.
  5. Environmental samples for shipping or laboratory analysis — prepare, label, and package in compliance with chain-of-custody requirements and hazardous materials regulations.
  6. Field equipment used to test or remediate pollutants — decontaminate following written standard operating procedures between sampling events.
  7. Basic data tables, charts, and graphs for environmental assessment reports — compile from field measurements using spreadsheet software under senior staff review.
  8. Technical environmental literature and regulatory guidance documents — read and summarize key requirements to support project team decision-making.
  9. Process parameters within environmental control systems — monitor instrument readings and flag anomalies to supervising engineers during routine operations.
  10. Geographic information system (GIS) and analytical software tools — operate at a basic level to input field data and generate preliminary site maps under guidance.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Project logbook records and digital program files — maintain independently across multiple concurrent environmental field projects, ensuring completeness and regulatory defensibility.
  2. Field and laboratory datasets including test results and observational summaries — record, validate, and organize with reduced oversight, identifying data gaps before submission.
  3. Environmental quality work across field and office settings — perform routinely, adapting sampling and monitoring techniques to varying site conditions and seasonal constraints.
  4. Air and groundwater pollution samples — collect and conduct preliminary chemical analyses, interpreting results against applicable regulatory benchmarks.
  5. Environmental assessment reports with tabulated data, charts, and sketches — produce to a draft-final standard using desktop publishing and analytical software tools.
  6. Field sampling and decontamination equipment — test, calibrate, and maintain to manufacturer and regulatory specifications, documenting findings in equipment logs.
  7. Process anomalies within environmental control or remediation systems — evaluate against baseline parameters and recommend corrective actions to project engineers.
  8. Chain-of-custody documentation and sample packaging protocols — execute with accuracy for complex multi-media sample shipments to accredited analytical laboratories.
  9. Environmental compliance software and database interfaces — query and update project records, generating status reports to support client deliverables.
  10. Technical findings from field investigations — communicate clearly in written reports and oral briefings to project teams and agency representatives.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Comprehensive project logbooks and electronic file systems — manage autonomously across the full project lifecycle, ensuring data integrity for regulatory submittals and legal defensibility.
  2. Multi-parameter field and laboratory datasets — analyze independently, applying statistical methods and scientific judgment to identify trends, outliers, and site-specific contamination patterns.
  3. Complex environmental quality investigations in diverse field and office settings — conduct across the full scope of site characterization, remediation monitoring, and compliance verification.
  4. Air, soil, and groundwater pollution samples — design site-specific sampling programs, oversee collection, and interpret analytical results to guide remedial decision-making.
  5. Detailed environmental assessment reports and technical memoranda — author with professional-level rigor, integrating data visualizations, regulatory citations, and risk-based conclusions.
  6. Non-routine process anomalies in remediation or environmental control systems — diagnose root causes using systems analysis and inductive reasoning, implementing corrective operational changes.
  7. Field equipment decontamination and QA/QC programs — develop and oversee site-wide protocols, ensuring equipment performance meets data quality objectives across all sampling events.
  8. CAD and GIS platforms — utilize proficiently to produce site maps, cross-sections, and spatial analyses that support technical reports and regulatory submissions.
  9. Environmental regulations and engineering standards — interpret and apply to novel site conditions, exercising independent judgment to select appropriate compliance strategies.
  10. Interdisciplinary project teams and client stakeholders — coordinate technical workflows, resolve scheduling conflicts, and present findings with credibility and clarity.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organization-wide environmental data management systems and project file standards — architect and enforce, ensuring consistent quality across all programs and regulatory jurisdictions.
  2. Strategic environmental assessment frameworks — develop and institutionalize, guiding the methodology by which the organization characterizes, evaluates, and reports site conditions at scale.
  3. Technical staff performing environmental quality work in field and office settings — mentor and evaluate, building team competency through structured training and performance feedback.
  4. Firm-level sampling and analytical quality assurance programs — design and lead, establishing data quality objectives and corrective action protocols that meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
  5. Complex, multi-site remediation and compliance portfolios — direct as principal technical authority, integrating engineering judgment, regulatory strategy, and resource allocation across concurrent projects.
  6. Environmental process control systems with recurring or systemic anomalies — lead root-cause investigations, recommending capital improvements or operational redesigns to senior leadership and clients.
  7. Regulatory agency relationships and technical negotiations — represent the organization authoritatively, interpreting emerging policy and advocating for science-based compliance pathways.
  8. Cross-functional project delivery teams spanning engineering, science, and field operations — coordinate at an organizational level, aligning timelines, budgets, and technical outputs to client objectives.
  9. Advanced GIS, analytical, and industrial control technologies — champion adoption and integration across the organization, evaluating emerging tools against operational and regulatory requirements.
  10. Environmental engineering and science knowledge — contribute to the profession through technical publications, peer review, or regulatory comment, elevating organizational and industry standards.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted data logging — uses AI tools to transcribe and organize field-collected numerical data, test results, and observational notes into structured project logbook files, reducing manual entry time Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic report drafting support — prompts an AI assistant to format tabulated pollution sample results into charts and preliminary report sections, then reviews outputs for accuracy before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Environmental report generation — directs an AI tool to synthesize field and laboratory data into draft environmental assessment reports, including charts and graphs, while applying domain knowledge to verify data integrity and regulatory compliance Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Sample data pattern recognition — uses AI-assisted analysis to identify trends or anomalies in air or groundwater pollution datasets, then validates findings against standard environmental benchmarks Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Literature and regulation review — delegates reading comprehension tasks to an AI assistant to summarize relevant environmental regulations and technical guidance documents, then critically evaluates the summaries for project applicability Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. End-to-end assessment workflow — orchestrates AI tools across the full environmental assessment cycle, from field data ingestion through statistical analysis to final report tabulation, retaining professional judgment on all interpretive conclusions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Critical evaluation of AI outputs — applies critical thinking to audit AI-generated pollution analysis summaries and flag automated misclassifications before they reach regulatory submissions, recognizing the moderate automation ceiling of this skill domain Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Time-optimized field documentation — structures AI-assisted documentation pipelines that capture photographs, numerical readings, and visual observation summaries in near-real time, realizing substantial efficiency gains on repetitive logging tasks Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI autonomy calibration — sets appropriate levels of AI task delegation for each project phase, assigning high-volume data collation to autonomous AI processes while retaining human authorship of environmental conclusions and risk characterizations Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-system AI orchestration — designs integrated AI-assisted workflows that connect field data collection tools, laboratory information systems, and report generation platforms, ensuring outputs meet regulatory and scientific standards WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Mentored AI adoption — trains junior technicians on effective AI prompting and output validation practices specific to environmental quality work, embedding critical review checkpoints that account for the occupation's mixed automation feasibility Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 502
Augment share: 50.2%
Time saved: 95.2%
AI autonomy: 2.74
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Computational Thinking
computational_thinking
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Field observation notes — documents visual site conditions and preliminary sample data using standardized logbook formats in field settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technical vocabulary — applies basic environmental engineering terminology when discussing sampling procedures with supervising technologists Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Laboratory report drafting — compiles numerical data, test results, and photographs into structured environmental assessment report sections with minimal revision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stakeholder updates — conveys routine monitoring findings to project supervisors through clear verbal summaries during field debriefs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory correspondence — prepares written communications to agency contacts describing sample collection protocols and chain-of-custody documentation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental assessment reports — produces complete tabulated data summaries with charts, graphs, and sketches that communicate pollution findings to technical and non-technical audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client-facing explanation — translates air, soil, or water quality results into plain-language summaries for landowners or community stakeholders during site reviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Anomaly documentation — records and communicates process parameter deviations through precise written entries in project logbooks and digital program files O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-disciplinary briefing — authors and presents integrated environmental monitoring reports synthesizing multi-media sampling data for engineering teams, regulators, and clients simultaneously Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication standard-setting — establishes field data recording conventions and report templates adopted across project teams to ensure consistency in environmental documentation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer mentorship in technical writing — coaches junior technicians on structuring findings, labeling graphics, and calibrating language precision in environmental assessment deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership — completes assigned field sampling and decontamination tasks independently after initial instruction, signaling readiness for expanded responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety initiative — proactively follows PPE and hazardous material protocols without prompting during environmental field operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Field crew coordination — organizes equipment staging, sample labeling, and packaging sequences for small field teams during multi-point environmental sampling events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process accountability — takes ownership of process parameter monitoring logs and flags anomalies to senior staff before they escalate into data integrity issues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Site operation leadership — directs daily field activities including equipment decontamination schedules, chain-of-custody completion, and sample shipping deadlines for active remediation projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior technician guidance — assigns and reviews data collection tasks for entry-level staff, providing real-time feedback on sampling technique and logbook accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Decision authority — makes on-site judgment calls regarding equipment anomalies or unexpected contamination indicators without requiring supervisor escalation in standard scenarios O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Project leadership — manages end-to-end technical execution of environmental assessment projects, coordinating field, laboratory, and reporting phases across multidisciplinary teams Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational influence — champions adoption of improved field protocols or monitoring technologies, persuading leadership through data-driven proposals and demonstrated pilot results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship program development — designs structured onboarding and skills progressions for incoming environmental technicians, increasing team competency and retention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition10 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-monitoring in the field — recognizes personal knowledge gaps in sampling procedures and seeks clarification before executing unfamiliar collection techniques Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning reflection — identifies which laboratory or field skills require additional practice after reviewing corrected data sheets or supervisor feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Procedural self-evaluation — reviews own chain-of-custody records and sample preparation documentation for completeness before submission, catching self-generated errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill-gap awareness — proactively pursues training in new analytical methods or regulatory standards when recognizing limitations in current knowledge base Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cognitive load management — structures complex multi-media field sampling events using pre-planned checklists and decision trees to maintain data integrity under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance calibration — compares own environmental data outputs against quality control benchmarks and adjusts collection or recording technique based on discrepancy patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Adaptive learning planning — selects targeted professional development activities (e.g., regulatory updates, instrumentation training) based on honest self-assessment of technical competency gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic self-improvement — analyzes patterns across multiple project cycles to identify recurring technical blind spots and redesigns personal workflow to eliminate them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Metacognitive modeling — explicitly demonstrates self-evaluation and error-correction thinking processes to junior technicians during field debriefs, building team reflective practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Knowledge transfer architecture — distills personal lessons learned from complex remediation projects into reusable decision frameworks shared across the technical team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Data validity check — identifies obvious outliers or transcription errors in field-collected numerical data before submitting laboratory samples for analysis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Procedure evaluation — compares actual sampling conditions against standard operating procedure requirements and flags deviations to supervisors O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Anomaly interpretation — evaluates unexpected process parameter readings against historical baseline data to distinguish instrument error from genuine environmental change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence-based reporting — selects appropriate chart or graph type to represent pollution concentration data based on the nature of the dataset and audience analytical needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory requirement analysis — interprets applicable environmental standards and determines whether collected sample results indicate compliance or require further investigation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-variable contamination analysis — evaluates air, soil, and groundwater sampling results in combination to identify probable contamination sources and migration pathways Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Field judgment — assesses real-time site conditions, equipment performance, and sample integrity indicators to decide whether to proceed, modify, or abort a sampling event Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Root-cause determination — investigates process anomalies by systematically ruling out equipment malfunction, procedural error, and genuine environmental signal through structured analysis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Investigative design critique — evaluates sampling plans for logical flaws, coverage gaps, or statistical insufficiency before field execution, recommending design improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-project pattern recognition — synthesizes findings across multiple environmental assessment projects to identify site-wide contamination trends informing remediation strategy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Assumption challenging — questions inherited monitoring protocols by testing their continued validity against evolving regulatory guidance and site-specific conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration11 statements
Emerging
  1. Field team participation — contributes assigned sampling, labeling, and equipment decontamination tasks reliably within a coordinated multi-person field crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Laboratory coordination — communicates sample arrival times and condition notes to laboratory staff to support smooth analytical handoffs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-functional data sharing — provides timely, accurately formatted field data to engineers, project managers, and laboratory analysts supporting integrated environmental assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — resolves disagreements about sampling location selection or equipment use with field partners through discussion grounded in protocol requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Client interaction support — participates constructively in site meetings with landowners or regulators, contributing technical observations while deferring to senior staff on interpretive conclusions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Interdisciplinary project integration — coordinates environmental sampling schedules with engineering design, construction, and regulatory review timelines to meet project milestones Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared quality assurance — collaborates with laboratory and field colleagues to maintain chain-of-custody integrity and uphold data quality standards across the full sample lifecycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory agency collaboration — works cooperatively with agency inspectors during site visits, providing accurate documentation and responsive answers to technical inquiries O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-stakeholder facilitation — leads collaborative sessions integrating perspectives from engineers, regulators, community representatives, and field technicians to reach consensus on remediation approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team capability building — identifies and addresses skill gaps within the field team through deliberate collaborative work structuring that distributes learning opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Partnership development — establishes productive working relationships with external laboratories, regulatory contacts, and subcontractors that improve project efficiency and data reliability across engagements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character11 statements
Emerging
  1. Data integrity foundation — records all field measurements and observations truthfully, including unfavorable or ambiguous results, without alteration or omission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol adherence — follows prescribed decontamination, sampling, and chain-of-custody procedures consistently even when shortcuts would go undetected Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error accountability — self-reports data recording mistakes or sample handling errors to supervisors immediately and assists in determining corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory ethics — maintains full compliance with environmental sampling and reporting regulations without compromise, even under project schedule or cost pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional reliability — meets field scheduling, sample shipping, and reporting deadlines consistently, demonstrating dependability to project teams and clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental stewardship — applies conscientious judgment in field decisions that affect public health or ecosystem integrity, prioritizing protective outcomes over convenience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Confidentiality maintenance — handles sensitive site contamination data and client information with appropriate discretion in communications and document management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Conflict-of-interest avoidance — identifies and discloses situations where personal relationships or interests could compromise objectivity in environmental assessment work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical standard advocacy — raises systemic data quality or reporting ethics concerns through appropriate channels when organizational practices drift from regulatory or professional standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Character modeling — demonstrates consistent integrity in high-stakes or ambiguous situations, establishing behavioral norms that junior technicians emulate in their own practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community accountability — proactively communicates accurate environmental risk information to affected communities even when findings create reputational or legal complexity for project stakeholders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Field problem improvisation — devises practical workarounds when standard sampling equipment malfunctions or site access conditions differ from plan Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Data visualization experimentation — tests alternative chart and graph formats to find the most informative representation of pollution concentration datasets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sampling strategy adaptation — modifies standard collection approaches creatively when site geology, hydrology, or access constraints prevent textbook execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Reporting innovation — develops novel sketch or photographic documentation techniques that capture site conditions more clearly than existing report templates allow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Monitoring network design — proposes original spatial configurations for air, soil, or water sampling points that improve contamination detection coverage beyond minimum regulatory requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process optimization invention — identifies and implements creative modifications to field decontamination or sample preparation workflows that reduce time, waste, or cross-contamination risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Technology integration — introduces novel instrumentation or digital data capture tools into standard field operations, improving data resolution or efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Methodology innovation — develops original environmental monitoring or remediation assessment approaches that address site-specific challenges unresolved by existing standard methods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-domain solution transfer — applies principles from adjacent scientific or engineering domains to generate novel solutions to persistent environmental sampling or analysis problems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Creative capacity building — fosters a team culture of experimental thinking by encouraging junior technicians to propose and pilot procedural improvements in controlled field settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset11 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction on sampling technique, data recording format, or equipment handling from supervisors without defensiveness and applies changes immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge embrace — volunteers for unfamiliar sampling media (e.g., first air emission or groundwater assignment) as a deliberate skill-building opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Setback recovery — resumes accurate field data collection after equipment failure or invalidated sample events without allowing frustration to compromise subsequent work quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory learning — actively studies evolving environmental regulations and updated analytical standards to stay current with compliance requirements beyond minimum job expectations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Skill stretch — pursues certification or training in advanced instrumentation or remediation techniques to expand technical range Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Iterative improvement — systematically incorporates lessons from previous project data quality issues into refined field procedures for subsequent sampling events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Productive failure analysis — treats invalidated sample batches or failed QC checks as structured learning events, identifying root causes and updating personal practice accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Continuous technical currency — maintains active engagement with emerging environmental science literature, regulatory guidance updates, and industry conferences to sustain applied competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Growth culture leadership — normalizes error reporting and lessons-learned sharing within the field team, reducing blame culture and accelerating collective skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Transformative learning pursuit — undertakes substantive professional development (advanced certifications, graduate coursework, cross-disciplinary exposure) to expand environmental engineering competency into new technical domains Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Organizational learning contribution — synthesizes personal growth lessons into formal training materials, procedure updates, or knowledge bases that elevate team-wide capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety attention — maintains focused awareness of chemical exposure risks, PPE requirements, and site hazards during field operations without prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Task presence — sustains attention during repetitive sample preparation and packaging tasks to prevent mislabeling or contamination errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional regulation under pressure — manages frustration during equipment failures, difficult site conditions, or schedule compression without compromising data collection accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional observation — approaches each field site with deliberate attentiveness to visual, olfactory, and contextual cues that inform contamination assessment beyond instrument readings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Decision pacing — pauses to verify chain-of-custody documentation, sample condition, and protocol compliance at defined checkpoints before proceeding to next field phase Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Environmental awareness — sustains attentive monitoring of process parameters over extended field sessions, detecting subtle anomalies that signal emerging contamination events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Stress-state management — recognizes personal cognitive load limits during simultaneous multi-media sampling events and applies structured attention strategies to maintain data integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team attentiveness modeling — demonstrates and teaches deliberate mindfulness practices (pre-task briefings, checkpoint reviews, fatigue management) that reduce field errors across the crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic hazard awareness — maintains heightened situational awareness during complex remediation site operations, anticipating cascading safety or data quality risks before they materialize Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Reflective field leadership — integrates intentional after-action reviews into project close-out routines, ensuring the team processes experiences consciously rather than moving on without learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical persistence — completes full field sampling schedules in adverse weather, remote locations, or physically demanding site conditions without abandoning assigned tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ambiguity tolerance — continues productive data collection work when regulatory interpretation or site characterization outcomes remain uncertain Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Deadline resilience — maintains data recording accuracy and completeness during compressed project timelines or when multiple concurrent sampling events increase workload Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Contamination exposure courage — operates in chemically hazardous environments with full PPE compliance and calm professionalism, not allowing risk anxiety to degrade task execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained quality under adversity — upholds rigorous chain-of-custody and sampling protocol standards across multi-week field campaigns despite fatigue, logistical obstacles, or uncooperative site conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory challenge persistence — pursues accurate environmental data and complete reporting even when findings generate pushback from clients, contractors, or other stakeholders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Equipment failure recovery — reconstructs disrupted sampling plans and maintains project momentum after significant equipment failures or site access denials without compromising data objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Long-term project endurance — sustains technical rigor and professional engagement across multiyear environmental remediation projects with shifting regulatory requirements and recurring setbacks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous reporting — presents unfavorable environmental findings to clients, leadership, or regulators with factual confidence, resisting pressure to minimize or reframe data contrary to evidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Resilience mentorship — coaches junior technicians through their first high-pressure or emotionally taxing field assignments, modeling composed persistence and professional recovery from setbacks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors61 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Air Analysis Engineering Technician · Air Analysis Technician · Air Analyst · Air Moving Technician · Air Pollution Specialist · Air Quality Instrument Specialist · Air Technician · Aquatic Technician (Aquatic Tech) · Emissions Technician (Emissions Tech) · Engineer Technician · Engineering Technician · Environmental Engineering Aide
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningActive LearningSpeakingScienceMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingWritingTime ManagementComplex Problem SolvingQuality Control AnalysisSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationOperations MonitoringSystems AnalysisManagement of Personnel ResourcesLearning StrategiesMathematics
Knowledge domains
Engineering and TechnologyMathematicsCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageChemistryMechanicalPhysicsPublic Safety and Security
Abilities
Inductive ReasoningDeductive ReasoningWritten ComprehensionOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionInformation OrderingProblem SensitivityNear VisionSpeech ClarityCategory Flexibility
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityIntellectual CuriosityPerseverance
Technology
Desktop publishing softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareObject or component oriented development softwareCompliance softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemDevelopment environment softwareIndustrial control software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Maintain project logbook records or computer program files.
  2. Record laboratory or field data, including numerical data, test results, photographs, or summaries of visual observations.
  3. Perform environmental quality work in field or office settings.
  4. Produce environmental assessment reports, tabulating data and preparing charts, graphs, or sketches.
  5. Collect and analyze pollution samples, such as air or ground water.
  6. Decontaminate or test field equipment used to clean or test pollutants from soil, air, or water.
  7. Prepare and package environmental samples for shipping or testing.
  8. Maintain process parameters and evaluate process anomalies.
CIP education codes
15.050615.050715.050815.070426.1006

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.