City of Santa Cruz
Environmental Compliance Inspector – Public Works Department
The current vacancy is for Environmental Compliance Inspector in the Public Works Department.
The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Environmental Compliance Inspector vacancies during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resources Director.
Application and Selection Process Recruitment #26-039. The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
On Thursday, 01/08/26 recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:
Application – online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online process.
Response to supplemental questions – will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.
Week of 01/12 and 01/19/26: Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment by 01/30/26.
Week of 02/02 and/or 02/09/26: Interviews will be tentatively scheduled for top candidates. The examination process will include an interview and may include a written and/or performance exercise.
Basic Function Under general supervision, maintain environmental compliance oversight for designated sections of the wastewater and stormwater system; storm drains, associated domestic trunklines and industrial discharges into the wastewater treatment facility. Perform technical tasks of modest to moderate complexity within the city to ensure compliance with Federal, State and local pretreatment standards and requirements; and perform investigations of discharges into the sewer systems, the city’s waterways and the nearshore.
Distinguishing Characteristics This classification is the entry level position in the Wastewater environmental compliance series. It is distinguished from the next higher level classification of Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector in that the latter classification supervises and provides work direction for assigned staff and assumes the primary enforcement role related to environmental compliance for wastewater and stormwater discharges. An Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade III certification is required within eighteen months of appointment.
Duties
Plan monitoring programs of designated sections of the City's wastewater and storm water monitoring programs in accordance with federal guidelines by scheduling regular and random inspections, performing sampling from trunklines, commercial and industrial dischargers into the sewer lines of the City, and determining location and frequency of sampling activities.
Install automatic sampling apparatus and flow measurement equipment in rivers, creeks, waterbodies and manholes using safety equipment as required; collect grab samples of storm water effluent discharges; and preserve collected samples, as needed.
Develop and perform moderately sophisticated analyses of candidate compounds for use in the wastewater system, using specifically assigned analytical systems and recognized instruments.
Work with Environmental Laboratory and WWTF Operations to investigate and resolve questions on pass-through; interference and violations of the discharge permit as needed.
Perform field and screening tests for pollution indicators including conductivity, discharge color, turbidity, pH, temperature and other indices to ensure the integrity of the collect system, personnel and equipment.
Arrange for analysis of samples from industrial processes and effluents by coordination with the City environmental laboratory and/or contracting commercial laboratories, transporting samples and determining analyses to be performed.
Inspect new industrial and commercial businesses to determine if wastewater discharge permits are required.
Inspect building plans and infrastructure layouts for compliance with City stormwater and wastewater regulations and best management practice (BMP) requirements.
Inspect the physical plant and records of wastewater discharge permit holders on regular and random basis; inspect and approve the proper installation and maintenance of grease, sand, and oil interceptors.
Distribute wastewater discharge permit applications; monitor the collection of permit fees; evaluate permit applications; and make recommendations to supervisor concerning permit conditions and self‑monitoring requirements.
Work with dischargers to maintain compliance with City’s environmental pollution ordinances and BMPs.
Evaluate monitoring data to identify violations; make recommendations to supervisor concerning noncompliance.
Investigate and prepare incident reports on complaints received from governmental agencies or the public; take appropriate follow‑up actions including issuing citations for ordinance violations.
Maintain comprehensive records and reports of sampling and monitoring programs, applications, permits, and citations.
Prepare correspondence to industrial and commercial firms notifying them of industry standards, program results, compliance or violation, and inspection schedules.
Perform environmental chemical and biochemical analyses in the environmental laboratory facilities at the WWTF.
Maintain supply inventories; requisition and order needed materials, parts and equipment; maintain supply and associated records as required.
Test, calibrate, and maintain sampling and testing equipment.
Act as liaison with local commercial and industrial business representatives, State and County inspectors, and the general public on environmental water and wastewater inspection matters.
Contribute to the program’s annual and quarterly pretreatment reports for submittal to appropriate regulatory agencies.
Assist in revision or modification of policies and the City Municipal Code regarding water pollution control, as required.
Perform other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.
Working Conditions Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level, uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movements in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires near, far and color vision when analyzing samples in reading work related documents and using a computer. The ability to lift, carry, and push tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds is also required. Additionally, the incumbent may be exposed to biohazards and a variety of working conditions, including mechanical, electrical and water‑related hazards, loud noises, wet, heat and cold. The use of cleaning and laboratory chemicals may expose the incumbent to fumes, dust, and contaminants. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders and steep slopes.
The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to operate motor‑powered boats and off‑road vehicles when collecting samples, to go to remote and isolated areas, drive on rough and unpaved roads in varying weather conditions, and enter customers’ businesses and homes to collect samples in the investigation of environmental water complaints.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Qualifications Education and Experience
A Bachelor’s degree in an environmental science or related field of study.
Completion of two (2) years of college courses in chemistry, biology, or biochemistry, or other environmental management curriculum, and one (1) year of experience as a full‑time laboratory assistant or two (2) years of experience in a wastewater field such as operations or laboratory.
Knowledge
Basic principles and terminology of chemistry, biology and/or biochemistry.
Procedures, materials and equipment used in the performance of standard chemical and bacteriological tests.
Basic proficiency in digital productivity software, especially Microsoft software including MS Word and Excel.
Abilities
Comprehend and interpret complex industrial waste pretreatment regulations and to communicate such information in a clear, comprehensive manner, both verbally and in writing.
Establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with industrial and commercial businesses.
Understand questions and complaints raised by the general public and to provide satisfactory responses.
Learn Access, PowerPoint and program database.
Prepare and maintain accurate statistical records and reports.
Plan and implement long‑range programs and goals.
Determine appropriate safety procedures to be used in a given situation.
Licenses and Certificates
Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California Class C driver’s license.
Other Requirements
Willingness to enter confined spaces and hazardous environments.
Willingness to work hours other than the established shift in order to collect samples or inspect commercial and industrial discharges.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of secondary wastewater treatment processes.
Possession of CWEA voluntary certification as Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade I.
Related Positions
Wastewater Systems Manager
Wastewater Laboratory/Environmental Compliance Manager
Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector
Environmental Compliance Inspector
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. The City is an equal opportunity employer. The City's Employment Practices are in compliance with the applicable federal and state laws governing equal employment opportunity research and practice.
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The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Environmental Compliance Inspector vacancies during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resources Director.
Application and Selection Process Recruitment #26-039. The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
On Thursday, 01/08/26 recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:
Application – online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online process.
Response to supplemental questions – will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.
Week of 01/12 and 01/19/26: Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment by 01/30/26.
Week of 02/02 and/or 02/09/26: Interviews will be tentatively scheduled for top candidates. The examination process will include an interview and may include a written and/or performance exercise.
Basic Function Under general supervision, maintain environmental compliance oversight for designated sections of the wastewater and stormwater system; storm drains, associated domestic trunklines and industrial discharges into the wastewater treatment facility. Perform technical tasks of modest to moderate complexity within the city to ensure compliance with Federal, State and local pretreatment standards and requirements; and perform investigations of discharges into the sewer systems, the city’s waterways and the nearshore.
Distinguishing Characteristics This classification is the entry level position in the Wastewater environmental compliance series. It is distinguished from the next higher level classification of Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector in that the latter classification supervises and provides work direction for assigned staff and assumes the primary enforcement role related to environmental compliance for wastewater and stormwater discharges. An Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade III certification is required within eighteen months of appointment.
Duties
Plan monitoring programs of designated sections of the City's wastewater and storm water monitoring programs in accordance with federal guidelines by scheduling regular and random inspections, performing sampling from trunklines, commercial and industrial dischargers into the sewer lines of the City, and determining location and frequency of sampling activities.
Install automatic sampling apparatus and flow measurement equipment in rivers, creeks, waterbodies and manholes using safety equipment as required; collect grab samples of storm water effluent discharges; and preserve collected samples, as needed.
Develop and perform moderately sophisticated analyses of candidate compounds for use in the wastewater system, using specifically assigned analytical systems and recognized instruments.
Work with Environmental Laboratory and WWTF Operations to investigate and resolve questions on pass-through; interference and violations of the discharge permit as needed.
Perform field and screening tests for pollution indicators including conductivity, discharge color, turbidity, pH, temperature and other indices to ensure the integrity of the collect system, personnel and equipment.
Arrange for analysis of samples from industrial processes and effluents by coordination with the City environmental laboratory and/or contracting commercial laboratories, transporting samples and determining analyses to be performed.
Inspect new industrial and commercial businesses to determine if wastewater discharge permits are required.
Inspect building plans and infrastructure layouts for compliance with City stormwater and wastewater regulations and best management practice (BMP) requirements.
Inspect the physical plant and records of wastewater discharge permit holders on regular and random basis; inspect and approve the proper installation and maintenance of grease, sand, and oil interceptors.
Distribute wastewater discharge permit applications; monitor the collection of permit fees; evaluate permit applications; and make recommendations to supervisor concerning permit conditions and self‑monitoring requirements.
Work with dischargers to maintain compliance with City’s environmental pollution ordinances and BMPs.
Evaluate monitoring data to identify violations; make recommendations to supervisor concerning noncompliance.
Investigate and prepare incident reports on complaints received from governmental agencies or the public; take appropriate follow‑up actions including issuing citations for ordinance violations.
Maintain comprehensive records and reports of sampling and monitoring programs, applications, permits, and citations.
Prepare correspondence to industrial and commercial firms notifying them of industry standards, program results, compliance or violation, and inspection schedules.
Perform environmental chemical and biochemical analyses in the environmental laboratory facilities at the WWTF.
Maintain supply inventories; requisition and order needed materials, parts and equipment; maintain supply and associated records as required.
Test, calibrate, and maintain sampling and testing equipment.
Act as liaison with local commercial and industrial business representatives, State and County inspectors, and the general public on environmental water and wastewater inspection matters.
Contribute to the program’s annual and quarterly pretreatment reports for submittal to appropriate regulatory agencies.
Assist in revision or modification of policies and the City Municipal Code regarding water pollution control, as required.
Perform other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.
Working Conditions Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level, uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movements in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires near, far and color vision when analyzing samples in reading work related documents and using a computer. The ability to lift, carry, and push tools, equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds is also required. Additionally, the incumbent may be exposed to biohazards and a variety of working conditions, including mechanical, electrical and water‑related hazards, loud noises, wet, heat and cold. The use of cleaning and laboratory chemicals may expose the incumbent to fumes, dust, and contaminants. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders and steep slopes.
The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to operate motor‑powered boats and off‑road vehicles when collecting samples, to go to remote and isolated areas, drive on rough and unpaved roads in varying weather conditions, and enter customers’ businesses and homes to collect samples in the investigation of environmental water complaints.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Qualifications Education and Experience
A Bachelor’s degree in an environmental science or related field of study.
Completion of two (2) years of college courses in chemistry, biology, or biochemistry, or other environmental management curriculum, and one (1) year of experience as a full‑time laboratory assistant or two (2) years of experience in a wastewater field such as operations or laboratory.
Knowledge
Basic principles and terminology of chemistry, biology and/or biochemistry.
Procedures, materials and equipment used in the performance of standard chemical and bacteriological tests.
Basic proficiency in digital productivity software, especially Microsoft software including MS Word and Excel.
Abilities
Comprehend and interpret complex industrial waste pretreatment regulations and to communicate such information in a clear, comprehensive manner, both verbally and in writing.
Establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with industrial and commercial businesses.
Understand questions and complaints raised by the general public and to provide satisfactory responses.
Learn Access, PowerPoint and program database.
Prepare and maintain accurate statistical records and reports.
Plan and implement long‑range programs and goals.
Determine appropriate safety procedures to be used in a given situation.
Licenses and Certificates
Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California Class C driver’s license.
Other Requirements
Willingness to enter confined spaces and hazardous environments.
Willingness to work hours other than the established shift in order to collect samples or inspect commercial and industrial discharges.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of secondary wastewater treatment processes.
Possession of CWEA voluntary certification as Environmental Compliance Inspector Grade I.
Related Positions
Wastewater Systems Manager
Wastewater Laboratory/Environmental Compliance Manager
Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector
Environmental Compliance Inspector
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. The City is an equal opportunity employer. The City's Employment Practices are in compliance with the applicable federal and state laws governing equal employment opportunity research and practice.
#J-18808-Ljbffr