Environmental Investigator III

About the role

The Houston Source Water Protection Program aims to protect Houston’s seven drinking water systems from hazards that could contaminate the water supply, both for drinking water wells and Lake Houston. The Program conducts investigations at sources of the City's drinking water facilities where potential contamination could occur, educates the public about source water protection, and enforces state and construction code requirements regarding boat docks, piers, and bulkheads.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with City of Houston departments to ensure compliance of boat houses, piers, and bulkheads.
• Oversee compliance activities related to structures on Lake Houston and its tributaries, including boat houses, piers, and bulkheads.
• Support and help lead field operations and inspections.
• Assist in evaluating source water protection areas, drinking water wells, and Lake Houston for regulatory compliance.
• Participate in the collection of source water samples from Lake Houston and associated drinking water wells.
• Conduct inspections that may involve reviewing construction plans, verifying setback requirements, assessing building materials, and identifying navigable waterways.
• Recommend corrective actions, conduct follow-up inspections, and issue warnings or citations as necessary.
• Interpret and apply state laws and policies related to source water protection.
• Investigate public complaints and conduct special investigations concerning water quality issues or unauthorized construction.
• Document findings thoroughly, including corrective actions, identified deficiencies, and supporting photographic evidence.
• Respond to public inquiries and provide effective solutions related to the City's drinking water sources.
• May be required to testify in court or enforcement hearings regarding violations and investigative findings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Engineering or a closely related degree.
• Two (2) years of pollution/environmental control experience is required.

Preferences

• Applicants who are bilingual or speak multiple languages, with knowledge of water distribution and investigative experience.
• Eligible veteran applicants who possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for.

Working Conditions

This is a field position 80% of the time. There are occasional exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution. This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier II Level.

Pay

Pay Grade 20. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm, subject to change.