Water Quality Inspector - Watershed Protection

Harris County•Houston, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Water Quality Inspector plays a critical role in ensuring environmental compliance across Harris County. This position involves evaluating newly built on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), and may include inspecting residential and commercial construction sites and investigating violations related to stormwater and wastewater management. The inspector maintains detailed records, monitors assigned areas for environmental infractions, and recommends corrective actions when needed. Work is performed independently or collaboratively within the Watershed Protection Group, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship, regulatory enforcement, and good customer service.

Requirements

A high school diploma or G.E.D. is required.
Must be a State-registered Designated Representative or become one within six (6) months of hire, unless extended by the Watershed Protection Division Manager.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Familiarity with wastewater and stormwater treatment concepts.
Intermediate computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
Detail-oriented, conscientious, and self-motivated.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Ability to work for extended periods in hot, cold, and inclement weather.
This position requires bending, stooping, and lifting up to 25 pounds, frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, carrying, ascending/ descending stairs, extended time outside, and walking on uneven terrain.
Good oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information and regulatory findings.
Capable of working independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
In accordance with Harris County’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Policy, this position is subject to emergency response and deployment protocols.
The employee may be designated as supporting a Mission Essential Function (MEF) and must: Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities.
Be available for temporary deployment to an alternative work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events.
Confirm work assignments with their supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events.
Remain flexible in assuming alternative duties as directed to support County operations continuity.
Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation, but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a natural science or related field.
Current State-registered Designated Representative or Registered Sanitarian.
Experience in environmental compliance or field inspections is preferred.
Basic understanding of stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWP3s) and Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Bilingual Spanish and/or Vietnamese a plus.

Responsibilities

Evaluate newly constructed on-site sewerage facilities for regulatory adherence and operational integrity
Investigate violations related to on-site sewerage systems and determine appropriate corrective actions
Perform inspections of residential and commercial construction sites - both active and completed - to ensure compliance with environmental regulations enforced by the Watershed Protection Group
Monitor assigned areas for stormwater quality issues, document findings, and report violations in accordance with established protocols
Maintain accurate and detailed inspection records, reports, and documentation
Schedule inspections and address complaints as necessary to ensure timely regulatory oversight
Operate independently or collaboratively within designated inspection zones
Perform other related duties as assigned to support environmental compliance and public health objectives
Support enforcement actions for environmental violations
Participate in disaster recovery planning and operational support as needed
Other duties as assigned.