ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATOR III - Houston Water

Position Overview

Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Service Line: Houston Water

Section: Regulatory Compliance

Reporting Location: 10500 Bellaire.*

Workdays & Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

• Subject to change
  
  

Description Of Duties/Essential Functions

This position involves technical inspections and investigative work within the Industrial Waste/Pretreatment Program to detect, analyze, and manage environmental pollutants and contaminants. The role includes conducting field investigations, collecting and analyzing samples, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting pollution prevention awareness.

Collects industrial wastewater, receiving stream, and treatment plant samples following standard operating procedures (SOPs) for proper collection and preservation. Conducts field analyses for parameters such as pH, temperature, and residual chlorine using approved methods. Maintains, calibrates, and operates field analysis equipment to ensure accurate results. Delivers samples to inhouse and contract laboratories, maintaining proper chain of custody procedures. Conducts inspections and field investigations to identify sources of treatment plant upsets and monitor industrial dischargers. Performs sampling surveillance to detect illegal discharges and non-compliance. Monitors chemical and microbiological aspects of treatment plants to ensure compliance with TCEQ regulations. Reviews field data for quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) and enters it into the electronic pretreatment software system in a timely manner. Trains employees on special field projects and sample collection procedures. Prepares detailed reports summarizing inspection and investigative findings. May be required to testify in court regarding environmental investigations and enforcement actions. Promotes environmental awareness about illegal dumping and educates the public on pollution prevention. Identifies opportunities for quality and efficiency improvements and takes a leadership role in special projects. Works closely with team members and stakeholders, ensuring QA/QC standards in all aspects of work. Demonstrates strong communication skills and fosters collaboration within the department.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The position routinely requires lifting of moderately heavy items (up to 40 pounds) and occasionally requires long periods of walking on rough surfaces. There are occasional exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture, air pollution, and raw sewage. This position may involve infrequent exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises, and minor burns.

This is a Department of Public Works & Engineering Emergency Management position at the Tier II Level.

Minimum Requirements

MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Health Engineering or a closely related degree.

Minimum Experience Requirements

Two (2) year of pollution/environmental control experience is required.

Minimum License Requirements

NONE

PREFERENCES

Preference will be given to applicants with experience implementing pretreatment program requirements and dental amalgam program requirements, industrial wastewater treatment, and investigation of industrial users upstream from treatment plants.

Preference given to candidates with valid driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston policy on driving (AP-2-2)

• Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6. ***
  
  

GENERAL INFORMATION

ELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: None

However, the department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: Yes

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 20

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov .

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-6032.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-393-6032. (TTY 7-1-1)

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employment

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy .