Since 1980, Clean Harbors has been the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services across North America. From waste management to industrial cleaning, the company offers a variety of services, including hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, cleaning for industrial facilities, recycling services, and the provision of parts washers.
In addition to the environmental services, Clean Harbors also offers co-ops and internships for engineering students to gain real-world experience. Engineers play a crucial role in the company’s day-to-day operations, and Clean Harbors’ partnership with Syracuse University has supported their mission of a sustainable future while gaining access to the University’s brightest minds prepared to tackle today’s environmental challenges.
“We are proud to highlight the significant contributions of Clean Harbors to the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) Employer Partnership Program. Since the program’s inception two years ago, they have been a steadfast Employer Partner, actively participating in numerous student events and providing invaluable support to our students,” says Assistant Director of Employer Relations & Career Services Jennifer Fazio.
“We see tremendous value in our partnership with Syracuse University, particularly with the College of Engineering and Computer Science. This relationship creates a powerful, mutually beneficial pipeline between industry and academia,” says Vice President of Talent Management Patrick Orr.
Engineers, especially those with backgrounds in environmental or chemical engineering, are involved in the safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste and conducting chemical analysis and lab testing to ensure materials meet safety standards. Engineers also design and optimize waste processing systems and recycling workflows to streamline site operations for better safety and sustainability practices.
Engineers with computer science or data engineering backgrounds analyze field and lab data to improve decision-making and service delivery, use tools to track waste movement and operational metrics and contribute to digital solutions for reporting, sustainability tracking and logistics planning. Engineers may also advise clients and stakeholders on sustainable solutions.
Clean Harbors also operates in several locations across India, providing crucial support services to frontline operations in North America. These teams contribute to a range of functions, including IT, finance, customer service and business process support, providing unique opportunities for international students. There also may be opportunities for top talent in their India locations to transfer or be temporarily assigned to roles in the U.S.
“International students who may be returning to India after graduation could be strong candidates for roles within our Indian operations, offering them the opportunity to apply their U.S.-based education and experience in a dynamic, global company,” says Orr. “We see great potential in building a pipeline of talent who understand both the U.S. and Indian business environments and can help bridge our global teams.”
As Clean Harbors continues to grow its business across the globe, the company looks forward to exploring new opportunities to deepen its relationship with ECS.
“As one of our valued Employer Partners, we deeply appreciate Clean Harbors’ dedication and support. We look forward to continuing to build a mutually beneficial relationship with them, working together to create more opportunities for our students and advancing the field of engineering and computer science,” says Fazio.
“Ultimately, this partnership helps build the next generation of environmental and operational leaders. It’s a win for Clean Harbors, a win for Syracuse University and a win for the future of sustainable industry,” says Orr.