Job Details

Environmental Investigator II

The City of Houston is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Sampling Investigator to join our Pretreatment Program team. This role plays a critical part in protecting public health and the environment by monitoring industrial wastewater discharges, conducting field sampling, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform field sampling of industrial and commercial wastewater discharges, following established protocols and safety requirements.
• Collect, preserve, and transport samples for laboratory analysis in accordance with EPA, TCEQ, and City of Houston standards.
• Assist with site inspections at industrial facilities and wastewater treatment plants to ensure compliance with pretreatment regulations.
• Document field activities with accurate records, chain of custody forms, and detailed field notes.
• Operate and maintain sampling equipment, vehicles, and related field instruments.
• Communicate effectively with industrial users, contractors, and City staff to explain requirements and resolve issues.
• Assist with investigations of potential violations, including illegal discharges, accidental spills, and other environmental incidents.
• Prepare reports and contribute to compliance enforcement actions when necessary.

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 Houston Public Works Management position at the Tier II Level.

Minimum Requirements:

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

Experience Requirements: One (1) year of pollution/environmental control experience is required.

Preferences: Preference will be given to applicants with field experience related to Industrial wastewater treatment, samples collection and investigation of industrial users upstream from treatment plants. Valid driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving.

General Information:

Selection/Skills Tests Required: None. However, the department may administer a skills assessment test.

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: 16.

Application Procedures: Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

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. The city offers a competitive benefits program, including health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan.