Anyone had experience with a firm of "environmental engineers"? Trying to figure out if they would be considered professional service employers, so as not to be subject to premiums. I called the PBGC but got transferred 6-7 times (literally) and no one could get me an answer. Thanks!

I've had good luck with emailed requests to the PBGC on coverage determinations. Surprisingly, they have responded promptly. You want it in writing anyway.

They sometimes give you the answer you are looking for even when it is clearly (IMO) incorrect! So try it and see. Engineers are a listed profession for exemption but I suppose what you mean is that these guys are not real engineers but are just calling themselves something?

Not unlike certain government agencies that employ "actuaries" with no such professional designation?