Environmental Compliance Inspector (Civil Engineering Specialist, Associate)

Position Description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Compliance Inspector to join our team. This position plays a critical role in protecting our wastewater infrastructure and the environment through inspection, education, and enforcement activities. The Environmental Compliance Inspector will be responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with the city's Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) program regulations, investigating sewer-related issues, conducting public outreach, and responding to environmental incidents.

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout th e:

• SPU Website
• Strategic Business Plan
  
  

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities. We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free public transportation options
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities
  
  

Job Responsibilities

Inspection and Compliance Activities:

• Conduct site visits/inspections of food service establishments to ensure compliance with city codes associated with the Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) program and educate facilities on these requirements and best management practices.
• Prepare enforcement letters, assess penalties, and track corrective actions associated with non-compliant wastewater discharges. Evidence and records must be gathered, generated, and maintained in a manner suitable for legal actions and court cases.
  
  

Public Education And Program Management

• Conduct education and outreach activities to business and residents to inform the public about topics pertaining to wastewater source control and pollution prevention.
• Programmatic monitoring to include collecting and analyzing GIS and other data resources to track program metrics.
  
  

Field Investigation And Response

• Respond to and investigate reports of leaking or broken private side sewers. Investigation includes site visits, speaking with homeowners, conducting dye tests at private residences to determine necessary action to ensure compliance with applicable city, state, and federal codes.
• Investigate and analyze sewer line segments with a history of sanitary sewer overflows and/or frequent maintenance which is the result of grease laden wastewater discharges to the sewer system.
• Periodic on call shifts as 24/7 responder to spills and act as incident commander, mobilizing resources and directing and coordinating clean-up efforts involving DWW assets.
  
  

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

Education: An Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology or two years of college level coursework in engineering and construction technology (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class).

Experience: Two years of civil engineering experience.

Certification/License: Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of wastewater systems and environmental regulations
• Experience with regulatory compliance and enforcement procedures
• Proficiency with GIS and data analysis tools
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently in field settings
  
  

Work Environment/ Physical Demands

• Most work is performed in a normal City work/office environment.
• Field assignments entail exposure to all types of weather, traffic, hazardous/toxic substances and work in or near construction sites.
• May be required to lift over 50 pounds.
• May be required to stand, walk, or bend for extended periods of time.
• Overnight travel may be required.
  
  

Additional Information

Workplace Schedule/Environment:

• This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Starting January 2, 2025, City employees will have the option to work remotely two days a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.
• Work is performed both in an office environment and in a public setting.
  
  

Application Requirement(s)

• A complete NEOGOV/Government Jobs on-line application
• Supplemental questionnaire responses
• Attached Resume & Cover Letter describing your skills and experience in relation to this position.
  
  

~Candidates submitting an incomplete Application Packages will NOT be considered~

Note: Candidates selected to interview will be required to complete an assessment.

T he salary range for this position is $51.74 - $60.23 hourly.

This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records incompliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SME 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents . More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at : https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans .

Who may apply:The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

If you have any questions, please contact Erika Monroe at erika.monroe@seattle.gov .

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/ .