Environmental Investigator III

Job Description:

Environmental Investigator III

Description

POSITION OVERVIEW

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FROM : ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

SERVICE LINE / SECTION : Houston Water /Regulatory Compliance
REPORTING LOCATION : 10500 Bellaire*
WORKDAYS & HOURS : M-F, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm*
*Subject to change

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Environmental Investigator III (EI III) is a mid-level technical and compliance position within the City of Houston’s Pretreatment Program. This role is responsible for conducting permitting activities, inspections, enforcement actions, and compliance evaluations for assigned industrial users to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local wastewater regulations. The position requires strong technical judgment, independent fieldwork capabilities, and precise documentation skills. While not a lead or supervisory role, the EI III may provide guidance to EI I and EI II staff as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducts comprehensive inspections and investigative work within the Industrial Waste/Pretreatment Program to identify, evaluate, and help control environmental pollutants and contaminants.
• Evaluates industrial and other non-domestic users for compliance with applicable environmental regulations and permit conditions.
• Assists in determining appropriate enforcement responses for identified violations, drafts enforcement documents, and verifies data for accuracy and completeness.
• Supports the development, processing, and renewal of industrial wastewater discharge permits for new and existing industrial users.
• Reviews self-monitoring and regulatory reports submitted by permittees to assess compliance and identify potential issues requiring follow-up.
• Updates and maintains compliance tracking databases for assigned facilities to ensure accurate and timely records.
• Communicates effectively with industrial users, the general public, and internal stakeholders; collaborates with team members to resolve compliance concerns.
• Follows all safety procedures and contributes to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
• Assists with public education and outreach activities related to pollution prevention and the impacts of illegal dumping

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work may require occasionally lifting moderately heavy items (up to 100 lbs). Extended walking on uneven or rough surfaces in outdoor environments, including exposure to Houston weather conditions. Occasional exposure to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture, and air pollution. Infrequent exposure to chemicals or minor physical hazards (cuts, bruises, or burns). Weekend and evening shifts required as part of the biomonitoring testing schedule.

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

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Engineering or a closely related degree.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Two (2) years of pollution/environmental control experience is required.

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.

Valid driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's 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

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 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 active posting period. 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 832-393-6020.

If you need special services or accommodations 832-393-6020 (TTY 7-1-1)

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

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.

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

EEO Equal Employment Opportunity
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.

The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Wellness
• Supplemental Insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability
• Retirement pension
• 457 deferred compensation plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• 10 days of vacation each year
• 13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
• Compensable Sick Leave
• Personal Leave
• Flexible schedules
• Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
• Professional development opportunities
• Transportation/parking plan
• Section 125 pretax deductions
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account

For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html

Closing Date/Time: 5/14/2026 11:59 PM Central

Salary:

$28.72 - $33.99 Hourly