Environmental Investigator II

Environmental Investigator II  Salary $2,085.89 - $2,260.00 Biweekly Location Houston, TX Job Type Full Time Job Number 38377 Department Houston Public Works Opening Date 03/12/2026 Closing Date Continuous Description Benefits Questions POSITION OVERVIEW Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED Service Line/Section: Houston Water/Regulatory Compliance and Utility Development (RCUD) Reporting Location: 10500 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77072 Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:30pm * Subject to Change DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 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 Routine lifting of moderately heavy items (up to 40 pounds). Extended walking on uneven or rough surfaces in outdoor environments under typical Houston weather conditions. Occasional exposure to heat, cold, rain, air pollution, and high-noise environments. Infrequent exposure to chemical substances and minor physical hazards such as cuts, bruises, or burns (safety training and protective equipment are provided). This is a Department of Public Works 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. LICENSE REQUIREMENTS None 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. **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 skill assessment evaluation. 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. The salary range for this position is: 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. To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-395-2972. If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-395-2972. (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. EOE Equal Opportunity Employment 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. Employer City of Houston Address 901 Bagby St Houston, Texas, 77002 Website https://www.houstontx.gov/