POSITION OVERVIEWApplication open to: All Persons Interested
Service line/Section: Houston Water/Regulatory Compliance and Utility Development
Reporting Location: 10500 Bellaire Blvd
Workdays/Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:30pm
*Subject to change
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The City of Houston is seeking an Environmental Investigator II to support compliance with the biomonitoring requirements of the TPDES permits of the City’s wastewater treatment plants.
Key Responsibilities:- Perform field sampling for acute and chronic biomonitoring toxicity tests following established protocols and safety requirements.
- Collect, preserve, and transport samples for laboratory analysis in accordance with EPA, TCEQ, and City of Houston standards.
- Document field activities with accurate records, chain of custody forms, and detailed field notes.
- Operate and maintain sampling equipment, vehicles, and related field instruments.
- Support compliance investigations, QA/QC reviews, and calibration log management.
- Assist with Toxicity Reduction Evaluations (TREs) and follow-up sampling when test failures occur.
- Assist with maintaining record keeping requirements of the city’s Pretreatment Program.
- Participate in compliance investigations when schedule allows, providing field support and data collection.
Working Conditions Work may require lifting moderately heavy items (up to 100 lbs). Extended walking on uneven or rough surfaces in outdoor environments, including exposure to Houston weather conditions. Occasional exposure to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture, and air pollution. Infrequent exposure to chemicals or minor physical hazards (cuts, bruises, or burns). Weekend and evening shifts required as part of the biomonitoring testing schedule.
This is a Department of Public Works position at the Tier II Level.MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Health Engineering or a closely related degree.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS One year of pollution/environmental control experience is required.
LICENSE(S) REQUIREMENTS None
PREFERENCESPreference will be given to applicants with field experience related to Industrial wastewater treatment, samples collection and investigation of industrial users upstream from treatment plants.
**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.** GENERAL INFORMATION SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: None
However, the department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: Yes
This position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
Pay Grade: 16 APPLICATION PROCEDURES Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during the active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov .
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call (832-395-2972). If you need login assistance/technical support call 855-524-5627. If you need special services or accommodation, call (832-395-2972), (TTY 7-1-1).
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.All new recruits and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter and resume along with their completed application when applying. For further information pertaining to the Houston Airport System, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDWLV_sJFoM . EOE Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Wellness
- Supplemental Insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability
- Retirement pension
- 457 deferred compensation plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- 10 days of vacation each year
- 11 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
- Compensable Sick Leave
- Personal Leave
- Flexible schedules
- Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
- Professional development opportunities
- Transportation/parking plan
- Section 125 pretax deductions
- Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
- Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
- Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
Closing Date/Time: 1/6/2026 11:59 PM Central