Senior Water Quality Inspector

Senior Water Quality Inspector

The Senior Water Quality Inspector plays a critical role in ensuring environmental compliance across Harris County. This position involves inspecting residential and commercial construction sites, evaluating newly built on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), 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. Additionally, the role includes mentoring junior inspectors, supporting supervisory tasks, and contributing to disaster recovery efforts.

Work is performed independently or collaboratively, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and regulatory enforcement.

• Perform inspections of residential and commercial construction sites—both active and completed—to ensure compliance with environmental regulations enforced by the Harris County Watershed Protection Group.
• 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.
• 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.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and leadership support to Water Quality Inspectors to foster professional development and ensure consistent enforcement practices.
• Operate independently or collaboratively within designated inspection zones.
• Support supervisory staff in executing departmental responsibilities and initiatives.
• Participate in disaster recovery planning and operational support as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support environmental compliance and public health objectives.
• Responsibilities may evolve and are not limited to the list above.

• A high school diploma or G.E.D. is required.
• Must be a State-registered Designated Representative or become one within six months of hire, unless extended by the Watershed Protection Division Manager due to training schedule.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A minimum of one (1) year of environmental compliance experience.
• A minimum of one (1) year conducting field inspections.
• Documented increases in work-related responsibilities and leadership roles.
• Familiar with wastewater and stormwater treatment concepts.
• Intermediate computer skills and proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office programs required.
• A valid driver’s license (Texas upon hire).
• This position requires daily operation of a County vehicle, and the candidate must provide and maintain a rider insurance policy at personal expense upon employment.
• Detail-oriented, conscientious, and self-motivated.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, decision-making, leadership, 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.
• Excellent 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.

• Bachelor’s degree in a natural science or related field, or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• Current State-registered Designated Representative and/or State-registered Registered Sanitarian is highly preferred.
• Certification as a Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality (CPSWQ) or a Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Stormwater Inspector (CESSWI) is a strong preference.
• Texas OSSF Site Evaluator or Installer II license is desirable.
• Bilingual Spanish and/or Vietnamese a plus.

• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in the environmental or regulatory field, including compelling compliance.
• Proven…