QSD/ QSP Inspector

QSP (Qualified SWPPP Practitioner) and QSD (Qualified SWPPP Developer)

- Job Descriptions For SWPPP-Related Work under California's CGP –

Overview

QSP and QSD are certifications required under California's Construction General Permit (CGP), administered by the State Water Resources Control Board. These roles ensure compliance with stormwater regulations to prevent pollution from construction sites through the development and implementation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

These positions are particularly relevant for construction projects disturbing soil (typically 1 acre or more) in California, where a certified QSD prepares the SWPPP, and a QSP oversees its on-site execution.

Duties:

Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD)

• Planner, Designer & Certifier Develops and certifies the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to meet 2022 CGP standards, including TMDL compliance and post-construction requirements.
• Key Responsibilities
• Prepare, certify, and amend the SWPPP (site maps, risk assessments, pollutant source evaluation, BMP selection, monitoring plans).
• Conduct site-specific TMDL assessments (e.g., RUSLE2 modeling for sediment) and select advanced BMPs/treatment systems.
• Ensure compliance with effluent limits, Numeric Action Levels (NALs), post-construction run-off, and dewatering rules.
• Perform required inspections (e.g., startup, biannual seasonal, post-NAL exceedance).
• Collaborate with owners/engineers/contractors to integrate SWPPP into project design/permits.
• Submit/amend documents via SMARTS (NOI, risk assessment, SWPPP uploads).
• Oversee implementation and support corrective actions/amendments.
• Conduct visual inspections required by QSD (Initial 30 Day, Semi-Annual, Inactive).

Qualifications & Certification

• Approved prerequisite (e.g., CA PE, PG, CESSWI, or equivalent).
• Complete CASQA-approved training, exams, and 2022 CGP Reissuance Review.
• 6 hours annual continuing education; biennial renewal.
• QSDs may also perform QSP duties.

Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP)

• On-Site Implementer & Compliance Manager Leads daily field execution, inspections, sampling, and BMP maintenance during construction.
• Install, inspect, maintain, and repair BMPs (erosion/sediment controls, stabilized entrances, etc.) to BAT/BCT standards.
• Conduct frequent visual inspections (monthly, pre/during/post-qualifying rain events, post-NAL exceedance).
• Perform stormwater/non-stormwater observations, effluent sampling (pH/turbidity for higher-risk sites), non-visible pollutant checks, and receiving water monitoring when triggered.
• Identify/correct deficiencies, implement fixes for exceedances, and recommend SWPPP amendments.
• Train site personnel and delegates on SWPPP/BMPs/TMDL requirements.
• Update SMARTS with inspection logs, sampling data, and Annual Reports.
• Delegate tasks to trained QSP Delegates (with foundational/site-specific training and oversight).
• Verify compliance for inactive/stabilized sites and support project closeout.

Qualifications and Certification

• Approved prerequisite (e.g., relevant certifications/education).
• Complete CASQA-approved training, exams, and 2022 CGP Reissuance Review.
• 6 hours annual continuing education; biennial renewal.

Key Differences – Quick Comparison:

• QSD: Technical planning, SWPPP certification, TMDL modeling, targeted inspections (more design-focused).
• QSP: Hands-on field work, frequent inspections/sampling, BMP implementation/training (more site-based).

Compensation:

Salary: $75,000-$120,000 depending on experience

Emerald Site Services offers a competitive compensation package based on estimating experience, technical knowledge, industry relationships, and demonstrated ability to produce profitable work.

Equal Opportunity

Emerald Site Services is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a professional workplace based on qualifications, performance, and business needs.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $120,000