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Payton Elwonger

@paytonelwonger

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Lead approvals chemist specializing in environmental compliance and waste management.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek roles where I can lead environmental compliance and hazardous waste programs, optimize processes, mentor teams, and drive measurable safety and regulatory improvements within collaborative, safety-focused organizations.

I am a Lead Approvals Chemist with over a decade of experience in environmental compliance, hazardous waste management, and technical analysis. I develop SOPs, ensure DOT and regulatory adherence, and optimize processes across multi-facility operations.

At Arcwood Environmental I led resource development for a new chemical incinerator, streamlined waste review with a new tracking system, and implemented clearer communications and PPE assignments to improve onsite safety and efficiency.

Previously, I managed hazardous waste operations for a large university campus, coordinating monthly hazardous shipments, conducting routine safety audits, and supporting EHS staff and research labs to maintain compliance with OSHA, EPA, and DOT standards.

I hold a B.S. in Environmental Policy and Decision Making, have international study experience, and bring leadership in SOP development, HAZWOPER/RCRA knowledge, ISO 14001 familiarity, and a demonstrated track record of measurable safety and compliance improvements.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Lead Approvals Chemist

Current

Arcwood Environmental

May 2019 - Present (6 years 5 months)

Lead chemist optimizing chemical incinerator process development and streamlining waste profiling processes, improving accuracy and operational safety across multiple facilities. Implemented PPE assignment and a new tracking system that increased waste-review efficiency and compliance.

SOP Development HAZWOPER Waste Profiling Process Optimization

Field Chemist

Arcwood Environmental

Jan 2014 - Apr 2019 (5 years 3 months)

Managed hazardous waste operations for Penn State campus, coordinating monthly hazardous shipments and ensuring OSHA, EPA, and DOT compliance while improving site safety through audits and proper labeling/segregation. Supported EHS staff and research labs with waste handling and manifests.

Waste Manifesting Inventory Management Chemical Segregation Laboratory Waste Support

Researcher

Ohio League of Conservation Voters

Jan 2014 - Dec 2015 (1 year 11 months)

Researched and communicated environmental impacts to the public and legislators, authored reports to increase public access to data, and partnered with community leaders to raise engagement on environmental issues.

Public Engagement Report Writing Community Outreach

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Ohio State University - Main Campus

Bachelor of Science, Environmental Policy and Decision Making

Grade: 3.4 GPA

Activities and societies: Study abroad (Australia and Fiji); Member of the Environmental Professionals Network and Buckeye Shale Energy Organization

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy and Decision Making with a 3.4 GPA, made Dean's List for four terms, and participated in a 5-week study abroad program in Australia and Fiji.