Scientist; Water Ecology), Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering

The Office of Building Water System Oversight (BWSO) within the Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (ESE) is responsible for conducting inspections to ensure compliance with various rules and regulations aimed at improving the operating conditions of engineered systems such as cooling towers, water tanks, evaporative condensers, internal plumbing, and wastewater systems in order to prevent risks associated with these systems.

• Conduct investigations of building water supply and distribution systems including cooling towers, evaporative condensers, internal plumbing, and wastewater systems.
• Perform environmental sampling of building water supply and distribution systems for water quality analysis including collection of water quality measurements.
• Review building maintenance programs and plans for cooling tower systems to ensure compliance.
• Conduct compliance inspections to selected facilities to ensure corrective actions and documentation were done to mitigate potential risks to the public.
• Review building cooling tower systems operational records to ensure compliance.
• Prepare reports pertaining to the findings of the field investigation including the preparation of electronic inspection reports using software developed for BWSO to implement inspection protocols.
• Educate building owners and managers in best practices for managing cooling towers, evaporative condensers, internal plumbing, and wastewater systems.
• Counsel facility/premises/owner‑operator regarding regulations and remedial measures when necessary.
• Issue Notice of Violations and Tribunal summons for non‑compliance with NYC Health Code and NYS Sanitary Code.
• Participate in the development of standard operating procedures for the field and conduct field surveys associated with building water supply and distribution systems.
• Review plans, drawings, and specifications for building water supply and distribution systems.
• Provide recommendations and take corrective actions based on findings of the field investigation as needed or directed by supervisor.
• Assist the ESE in related Public Health Engineering tasks including water and sewage complaints, beach inspections and sampling and pool inspections and sampling as needed.

• Academic background in environmental or chemical engineering, limnology, environmental science, marine science, geology, biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, or health science.
• Prefer to work in the field including travel throughout the five boroughs.
• Must be able to climb ladders and work in confined spaces, and at high altitudes (building roofs) in order to perform field inspections and water testing.
• Pass medical clearance and FIT testing for wearing proper PPE respirators. Must complete and pass agency required trainings and be in compliance with the position related certificates and licenses.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Access).

• Benefits:
  City employees are entitled to unmatched benefits such as:
  • A premium‑free health insurance plan that saves employees over $10K annually, per a 2024 assessment.
  • Additional health, fitness, and financial benefits may be available based on the position’s associated union or benefit fund.
  • A public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement.
  • A tax‑deferred savings program.
  • A robust Worksite Wellness Program that offers resources and opportunities to keep you healthy while serving New Yorkers.
• Work from Home Policy:
  Depending on your position, you may be able to work up to two days during the week from home.
• Job Security:
  You could enjoy more job security compared to private sector employment and be able to contribute to making NYC a healthy place to live and work.