Storm Drain / Wastewater Compliance Inspector / Educator
About this role
Under general direction of Special Projects and Senior Compliance Inspector, performs primarily field-based work supporting the City’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit, wastewater collection system operations, and related environmental compliance programs. This position assists with stormwater, wastewater, and environmental field inspections, investigations, maintenance support, and public interaction activities. Work is focused primarily on field operations throughout the City’s storm drainage and wastewater systems, with limited office and administrative responsibilities. The Storm Drain/Wastewater Compliance Inspector/Educator supports inspection and compliance activities involving stormwater systems, private wastewater lift stations, illicit discharge investigations, outfall inspections, spill response, catch basin systems, and environmental protection efforts. The position may also assist with septic-related inspections within city limits, mapping verification, and field documentation activities. This position will work closely with city staff, contractors, businesses, property owners, and regulatory agencies to help maintain compliance with City, State, and Federal environmental regulations. The position serves an important public education and customer service function by interpreting technical information, explaining regulatory requirements in understandable terms, and promoting environmental compliance through effective communication, education, and collaborative problem-solving.
Work activities involve multiple skills and may include any or all of the following depending on area of assignment, crew needs, emergency services, special projects, and seasonal factors:
• Perform field inspections of stormwater drainage systems, wastewater collection systems, outfalls, catch basins, and related infrastructure. • Assist with illicit discharge detection and elimination investigations. • Conduct dry weather screening and field observations related to storm water quality concerns. • Assist with spill response activities and field containment efforts. • Inspect and document stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) and maintenance needs. • Perform inspections of grease interceptors, grease traps, oil/water separators, and wastewater-related facilities. • Assist with private wastewater lift station inspections and operational observations. • Assist with septic inspection programs within city limits, field recordkeeping, and mapping verification as assigned. • Operate and maintain field monitoring equipment and assist with water quality sampling activities. • Respond to public complaints and inquiries regarding spills, drainage concerns, wastewater issues, and illicit discharges. • Prepare field reports, inspection records, photographs, notices, and related documentation. • Assist with enforcement documentation and compliance notices under supervision. • Assist with stormwater and wastewater maintenance operations as needed. • Assist in emergency response and after-hours callout situations when assigned. • Assist with the preparation of outreach materials and educational handouts. • Assist with public education activities related to stormwater pollution prevention and wastewater protection including interpreting and translating technical information, inspection findings, environmental regulations, and compliance requirements into clear, accurate, and easily understood information for individuals with varying levels of technical knowledge. • Address questions, concerns, and disagreements regarding inspection findings and compliance requirements through respectful communication, active listening, sound judgment, and appropriate referral or escalation when necessary. • Establish and maintain effective, professional, and cooperative working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, other City departments, contractors, regulatory agencies, businesses, and members of the public. • Attend training sessions, safety meetings, and regulatory workshops as required. • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Performance Requirements (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities): To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required, with or without reasonable accommodation. • Knowledge of English, spelling, grammar, vocabulary, and punctuation. • Knowledge and understanding of the City’s NPDES permit. • Basic knowledge of stormwater and wastewater systems, and field operations. • Ability to work independently in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions. • Ability to read maps, utility plans, and field inspection documents. • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and field data collection systems. • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with a variety of audiences, including individuals with limited technical knowledge or familiarity with environmental regulations. • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with City officials, employees, intergovernmental agencies and the public in a courteous and helpful manner, sometimes in stressful situations.