Industrial Wastewater Inspector

Pima County; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 3,397,000 - 4,757,000; Full time

Job summary

Pima County is seeking an Industrial Wastewater Inspector to conduct inspections, sampling, and reporting to ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act and local regulations. The role includes preparing enforcement documentation, coordinating with laboratories, and training junior staff.

Weekly schedule features a four-10 hour day pattern (6:00am - 4:30pm) and requires a valid driver license; prior experience in wastewater facilities is preferred.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in environmental science/technology, hydrology, hydro‑geology, engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, watershed/wildlife management, ecology, mathematics, public administration, public health or a closely related field as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment.

Responsibilities

• Inspects EPA-regulated and/or significant-discharge industrial wastewater pre-treatment facilities and other industrial facilities to evaluate the compliance of physical/chemical treatment processes, treatment records, and hazardous wastes manifests.
• Conducts pre-permit inspection of businesses/industries to determine the category of discharge and appropriate sampling methods.
• Performs manual and automatic wastewater sample collection from industrial discharges, Pima County treatment plants, surface water runoff, rivers, and collection systems.
• Analyzes wastewater laboratory and self-monitoring reports for violations and documents violations of discharge requirements for use by the County Attorney, documenting chain-of-custody on samples as evidence of legal custody.
• Drafts industrial wastewater discharge permits; writes concise reports-for-record detailing inspection results for use in enforcement actions.
• Maintains supply levels, controls vehicle and equipment status and condition; responds to chemical spills and other wastewater issues.
• Trains other Industrial Wastewater Inspectors in procedures and techniques; assists with Food Service Facility inspections for grease management compliance.
• Participates in inspections and sampling of wastewater reclamation facilities and coordinates with operators and laboratories.

Education

Associate’s degree in environmental science/technology or related field

Job description

Job Description Summary Department - Regional Wastewater Reclamation

Job Description OPEN UNTIL FILLED Job Type: Classified Job Classification: 5648 - Industrial Wastewater Inspector Salary Grade: 9 Pay Range Hiring Range: $24.66 - $29.60 Per Hour Pay Range: $24.66 - $34.53 Per Hour Range Explanation: Hiring Range is an estimate of where you can receive an offer. The actual salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, training, and internal equity. Pay Range is the entire compensation range for the position. The first review of applications will be on 09/11/2026. Do you enjoy serving your community or consider yourself an environmental steward? Then a job as an Industrial Wastewater Inspector may be for you. A career in wastewater offers the opportunity to be involved in cleaning, and renewing our world’s most essential resource, water. You will have the opportunity to conduct semi-annual inspections and sampling of businesses/industries to determine compliance with the Clean Water Act and local regulations, investigate spills and/or illegal discharges, and assist in preparing written incident reports and documentation. Plus enjoy work a compressed schedule of four 10-hour days, 6:00am - 4:30 pm! Take a look at our website! https://webcms.pima.gov/government/wastewaterreclamation/

Essential Functions:

• Inspects EPA-regulated and/or significant-discharge industrial wastewater pre-treatment facilities and other industrial facilities to evaluate the compliance of physical/chemical treatment processes, treatment records, and hazardous wastes manifests;
• Conducts pre-permit inspection of businesses/industries to determine the category of discharge and appropriate sampling methods;
• Performs manual and automatic wastewater sample collection from industrial discharges, Pima County treatment plants, surface water runoff, rivers, and collection systems;
• Analyzes wastewater laboratory and self-monitoring reports for violations and documents violations of discharge requirements for use by the County Attorney, documenting chain-of-custody on samples as evidence of legal custody;
• Drafts industrial wastewater discharge permits;
• Writes concise reports-for-record, detailing inspection results for use in potential civil and criminal enforcement actions and drafts enforcement action documents such as notice of violation, show cause, intent to suspend, and suspensions;
• Maintains supply levels, controls vehicle and equipment status and condition;
• Responds to chemical spills and other wastewater conveyance system problems to perform sample analysis and problem resolution;
• Trains other Industrial Wastewater Inspectors in procedures and techniques;
• Assists with Food Service Facility inspections by researching and reviewing previous facility inspections, compiling paperwork, inspecting the facility to determine connection to pre-treatment device and verifying compliance with the Pima County Grease Management Program;
• Participates in inspections and sampling of wastewater reclamation facilities which include, but are not limited to, verifying that facilities are operational, coordinating sampling with facility operators, reviewing appropriate sampling procedures, and advising the laboratory of incoming samples for testing;
• Investigates permitted and non-permitted entities which may include interviewing witnesses, collection of evidence for use in enforcement actions, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and the ability to de‑escalate tense situations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in environmental science/technology, hydrology, hydro‑geology, engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, watershed/wildlife management, ecology, mathematics, public administration, public health or a closely related field as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment. (Relevant experience and/or education from an accredited college or university may be substituted.)
• Two years of experience in a laboratory setting collecting, testing, and analyzing water or wastewater samples or in operating/maintaining industrial wastewater treatment systems.
• One year of experience with Pima County as an Operations and Maintenance Technician or as a Utility Maintenance Worker I.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum one (1) year experience working with environmental regulations.
• Minimum one (1) year experience writing environmental or technical reports, permits, or preparation of environmental permit applications.
• Minimum one (1) year experience conducting inspections of sewer construction/plumbing schematics or commercial/industrial facilities.
• Minimum one (1) year experience in data entry, retrieval, and evaluation/analysis.
• Minimum one (1) year experience operating water, wastewater, or industrial treatment processes or sewage conveyance systems.

Selection Procedure:

Pima County Human Resources Department reserves the right to admit to the selection process only those candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. All applications will be assessed based on an evaluation of the listed education and experience. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications may be further evaluated/scored against any advertised Preferred Qualifications. The hiring authority will interview and select the successful candidate from a referral list provided by Human Resources. Additional assessments/testing may be required as part of the selection process.

Supplemental Information:

Licenses and Certificates: Valid driver license is required at time of application. Valid AZ driver license is required at time of appointment. The successful applicant will be subject to a 39‑month DOT Motor Vehicle Record review to determine applicant’s suitability to operate county vehicles in accordance with Pima County administrative procedures. Failure to obtain and maintain the required licenses and certifications shall be grounds for termination. Any offer of employment resulting from this recruitment is contingent upon Fleet Services’ review and approval of the candidate’s driving record.

Special Notice Items:

The County requires pre‑employment background checks. Successful candidates will receive a post‑offer, pre‑employment background screening to include verification of work history, education, and criminal conviction history. A prior criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment with the County. This position will require a post‑job offer physical and/or drug screen.

Physical/Sensory Requirements:

Constantly operates and inspects mechanical equipment. Constantly positions self to use, inspect, clean or repair tools and machinery. Constantly observes details at close range. Frequently required to exchange accurate information. Frequently remains in a stationary position. Frequently moves tools and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Constantly operates a motor vehicle safely and legally, in accordance with applicable state and federal transportation laws. Occasionally moves tools and equipment weighing up to 75 pounds. Occasionally climbs on or off machinery and equipment to perform repairs or maintenance. Action Activity - bending, climbing, crawling, kneeling, reaching, squatting, and stooping; Motion Activity - grasping; Hearing Activity - in noisy areas on a radio, behind themselves; Speaking Activity - in person, on a phone, on a radio; Vision - must be able to operate a motor vehicle, operate machinery, distinguish color, have depth perception, have peripheral vision. Frequently required to lift 50 pounds, push or pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds.

Working Conditions:

Frequently exposed to loud noise levels. Frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. Occasionally exposed to mechanical oils, vibration and risk of electrical shock. Frequently exposed to adverse weather conditions.

EEO Information:

Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce and will not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, kinship, political interest, or any other characteristic protected by law. Pima County stands out as an exceptional workplace, offering a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and personal satisfaction. As one of the largest employers in the region, Pima County prioritizes its commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, recognizing the unique contributions of each employee. Embracing innovation and collaboration, Pima County provides multiple opportunities in which individuals can make a meaningful impact on their community. One of the key advantages of working for Pima County is its comprehensive benefits package. Employees enjoy competitive salaries, generous health insurance coverage, and retirement plans that contribute to long‑term financial security. Pima County recognizes the importance of a healthy work‑life balance, offering flexible work schedules, a generous family leave policy and wellness programs that prioritize employee well‑being. Furthermore, Pima County takes pride in fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional advancement through training programs, workshops, and educational reimbursement programs. In addition, a County‑wide employee recognition program rewards employees who exemplify the County values of being accountable, respectful and ethical as well as providing great customer service. By joining Pima County, individuals become part of a dedicated team working towards a common goal: enhancing the quality of life for residents and building a vibrant future. Pima County is not just an employer; it's a community that values its employees, encourages their growth, and invests in their success.