EPA Brownfields Remediation Job Training Program
A No-Cost Environmental Workforce Training Opportunity for St. Louis Area Residents
Saint Louis University’s Center for Environmental Education & Training (CEET) is proud to offer a grant-funded Brownfields Remediation Job Training Program, supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This program prepares community members for high-growth careers in environmental cleanup, hazardous-waste operations, GIS applications and worker safety.
Your Pathway to a High-Demand Career Starts Here
This free program is designed for people seeking employment, career change, or a new start in a field where trained workers are in demand. Environmental cleanup and remediation work is essential across the St. Louis region, and companies need skilled, safety-trained workers now.
Whether you want to work for a union contractor, a non-union environmental firm, a municipal agency or a private cleanup company, this training gives you the certifications and hands-on skills to get your foot in the door.
- No experience needed.
- No tuition costs.
- Just motivation, commitment, and a desire for a better job and a cleaner, safer community!
Why Brownfields Training Matters
Brownfields are properties where environmental contamination may complicate redevelopment, such as former industrial sites, rail yards, gas stations or vacant commercial properties. Cleaning and restoring these sites opens the door for new housing, parks, businesses and economic revitalization.
The EPA’s Brownfields Job Training Program ensures that local residents benefit directly from cleanup efforts by receiving the certifications required for environmental remediation careers.
What the Training Includes
Participants receive free, industry-recognized training delivered by SLU-CEET, an OSHA Training Institute Education Center. Training tracks vary by cohort but may include:
Core Certifications and Skills
- 40-Hour HAZWOPER Certification (Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response)
- OSHA Construction Safety Training (OSHA 10-hour)
- Lead-awareness and lead-safety modules
- Asbestos awareness
- Confined-space and fall-protection awareness
- Chemical safety and PPE use
- Environmental sampling basics (soil, water and air)
Advanced Training Options by Track
Track 1: Brownfields / Environmental Remediation Technician Track (approx. 192 hours):
- Asbestos abatement
- Lead-paint abatement
Track 2: Brownfields GIS Technician Track (approx. 124 hours):
- GIS fundamentals
- Mapping contaminated properties and demographics
- Brownfields site inventory mapping
Program Benefits
- Training is no-cost to eligible participants
- No prior experience required
- Earn multiple industry-recognized certifications
- Opportunities to interview with regional employers
- Career coaching and job placement support
- All learning materials and equipment supplied (EPA-funded resources)
- Supportive cohort environment and staff who are committed to your success
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for individuals who:
- Are seeking a career change or a pathway into environmental remediation, construction/demolition, or GIS fields
- Live in or near St. Louis-area communities near contaminated and/or blighted properties
- Are unemployed, underemployed or looking for career advancement
- Are able to commit to full-time training over several weeks
- Are at least 18 years old and legally able to work in the U.S.
- Are willing and physically able to participate in hands-on field training (with reasonable accommodations available)
- Earned a HS diploma or GED
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Pass required drug test
- Are physically able and willing to wear a respirator
Ready to Learn More?
Attend an upcoming information session to discover how the EPA Brownfields Remediation Job Training Program can help you launch a meaningful, impactful career, while contributing to cleaner, safer communities in the St. Louis region and other regions.
Contact SLU-CEET
Email: ashley.norton@slu.edu