Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior (OSSF) - Austin Water

City of Austin•Austin, TX

4d•$33 - $41•Onsite

About The Position

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. What Makes the City of Austin Special? Make a Difference : Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Value and Innovation : Work in an environment where employees are valued and innovation thrives. Competitive Benefits : Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits. Retirement Security : Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System. Sustainable Transportation Options : Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure. Focus on Wellness : Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support. Career Growth : Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities. Modern Workspaces : Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration. By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country. ABOUT AUSTIN WATER: For over 100 years, Austin Water has been committed to providing safe, reliable, high-quality, and affordable water services to our customers. Today, we serve over 1,000,000 people in the Austin metropolitan area, across more than 548 square miles. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, we’re not just keeping up—we’re leading the way with sustainable infrastructure, advanced treatment technology, and environmental innovation. Austin Water consistently ranks among the best in the country when it comes to water quality. We also treat, return, and recycle wastewater in ways that protect environmental resources. Austin Water exceeds federal and state requirements for clean water and environmental compliance at our water and wastewater treatment plants. Job Description: Environmental Compliance Specialist Senior Purpose: Under minimal supervision and using advanced knowledge, review, inspect, analyze, and/or investigate development, construction, businesses, remediation plans, and pollution events of advanced scope and complexity to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Requirements

Graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Environmental Science, Life Science, Natural Science, or related field, plus six (6) years of relevant experience.
Graduation with a Master's degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience
One (1) additional year of experience may substitute for one (1) year of the required education with a maximum substitution of four (4) years.
May require a valid State of Texas Class C Driver License and the ability to meet driver eligibility standards detailed in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program.
For Austin Water positions: On-Site Sewage Facility positions: TCEQ Designated Representative (DR) license and valid plumbing inspectors license from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners or the ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Skill in using computers and related software applications.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Ability to train others.
Therefore, the ability to obtain an OSSF Designated Representative license within six (6) months of employment is necessary.
Therefore, the ability to obtain a Plumbing Inspector license within six (6) months of employment is necessary for the incumbent to complete essential job functions.
External New Hires must meet the City of Austin’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.

Nice To Haves

Experience inspecting onsite and decentralized wastewater treatment facilities and wastewater connections
Demonstrated knowledge of wastewater treatment design
Experience managing code compliance issues
Experience using geographic information systems, work order and case management systems such as HANSEN, AMANDA, or similar software applications
Experience applying the City of Austin Land Development Code, the Texas Administrative Code regarding onsite sewage facilities, and the City of Austin or State of Texas water and wastewater regulations
Experience analyzing, interpreting, and managing large volumes of data
Experience interpreting technical data, policies and procedures to a wide audience including citizens, plumbers, and contractors
Current Designated Representative (DR) license or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire
Current Plumbing Inspector License from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire

Responsibilities

Coordinates, directs, and/or conducts investigations and surveys related to environmental issues and programs.
Issues directives and performs enforcement actions for non-compliance with code and/or regulations.
Develops sampling protocol and standard operating procedures.
Responds to and directs spills and complaint actions.
Provides technical information and assistance to internal and external customers.
Develops and implements rules, code changes, and training programs.
Implements permitting and registration programs.
Reviews and interprets policies, codes, regulations, ordinances, plans, and proposals for compliance.
Researches, develops, presents, and/or submits incident, inspection, and technical reports/cases to appropriate agency/personnel.
Participates in and/or leads City-wide initiatives, task forces, and committees.
Resolves appeals of permit denials.
May provide leadership, guidance, and technical support to others.
Investigate instances of sewage on the ground involving onsite sewage facilities
Conduct construction inspections of onsite sewage facilities
Coordinate and/or conduct investigations of failing on-site sewage facilities
Analyze, query, and manage data from the City’s Geographical Information System and licensed tracking software(s)
Identify, develop, and gather information in support of enforcement cases
Serve as expert witness in appearance hearings and trials
Provide technical information and assistance to internal and external customers
Review and interpret policies, codes, regulations, ordinances, plans, and proposals for compliance
Participate in and/or lead city wide initiatives, task forces, and committees
This position inspects onsite sewage facilities ( OSSF ) and issues notices of violation.