Inspector II (Mainly OSSF)

Ellis, County of (TX); Waxahachie (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ellis, County of (TX) is looking for an inspector responsible for reviewing on-site sewage facilities and development permits. This role requires a valid Texas driver's license, a high school diploma, and strong customer service skills.

The ideal candidate will conduct field inspections, investigate code violations, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred. This position involves both field and office work, and the county offers a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid Texas driver's license.
• Requires passing background checks.
• Preferred: Site Evaluator certification.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field inspections for compliance with regulations.
• Process and approve permit applications.
• Investigate code violations and prepare court cases.

Skills

Knowledge of local laws and regulations

Strong customer service skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Ability to work independently

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish

Education

High school diploma or GED

TCEQ Designated Representative certification

Bachelor's degree in environmental health or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Permit tracking systems

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under general supervision, this position primarily reviews and inspects on‑site sewage facilities (OSSF) and development permit applications, investigates possible code violations, and prepares cases for courts, as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A high school diploma or GED and at least twenty‑one (21) years old.
• Hold a TCEQ Designated Representative (DR) certification or obtain it within 90 days of starting work, depending on class availability.
• Maintain a valid Texas driver's license and a good driving record according to the Department of Development's standards.
• Successfully pass background checks.
• Previous experience in an inspection role or related duties.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with at least 30 hours in environmental health or a related field is preferred.
• Site Evaluator (SE) certification.
• At least two years of inspection experience with a government or similar entity.
• Previous construction infrastructure or utility inspector experience.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Including but not limited to:

• Maintains regular and reliable attendance and completes assigned duties in a timely manner.
• Provides courteous, professional, and responsive customer service to internal and external customers, including responding to inquiries by phone, email, and in person.
• Works collaboratively with coworkers, other departments, governmental agencies, consultants, contractors, and the public.
• Reviews, processes, and approves permit applications for on‑site sewage facility (OSSF) and development permits in accordance with applicable regulations and departmental procedures.
• Reviews OSSF plans and related technical documents, identifies deficiencies, and communicates required corrections to designers, applicants, etc.
• Conducts field inspections of properties, development projects, and on‑site sewage facilities to verify compliance with applicable federal, state, county, and departmental regulations.
• Investigates complaints and potential violations, conducts research, documents findings, and prepares reports as necessary.
• Prepares notices of violation, enforcement documents, and court filings; may provide testimony or technical information during hearings, legal proceedings, or court actions.
• Maintains accurate paper and electronic records, databases, files, reports, and other departmental documentation.
• Assists with special projects, research assignments, and departmental initiatives as directed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

TECHNICAL, COMMUNICATION, AND OTHER SKILLS

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards related to on‑site sewage facilities (OSSF), environmental health, sanitation, construction plan review, stormwater management, and land development.
• Knowledge of county development regulations, permitting processes, technical review procedures, and applicable provisions of the Texas Local Government Code, Texas Administrative Code, Texas Health and Safety Code, Texas Water Code, etc.
• Ability to conduct inspections, review plans and technical documents, identify deficiencies, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
• Strong customer service and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to effectively address concerns and provide solutions while maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, analyze information, conduct research, and make informed decisions consistent with departmental policies and applicable regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with coworkers, consultants, contractors, property owners, governmental agencies, and the general public.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional, cooperative, and effective working relationships with diverse groups of individuals.
• Demonstrated professionalism, maturity, tact, and diplomacy, particularly when handling difficult situations, conflict resolution, or interactions with upset customers.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively as a member of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and other business software applications, including document management, collaborative platforms, permit tracking systems, online mapping applications, and emerging technologies relevant to departmental operations.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and perform routine technology‑related tasks.

WORK CONDITIONS

The physical requirements described in this description are representative of those that must be performed by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position involves a combination of field and office work. Field duties require regular travel to inspection and development sites with potential exposure to varying/adverse weather conditions, environmental/physical hazards (i.e., construction equipment/environment, open excavations, uneven terrain, chemicals and infectious materials, etc.), animals, and occasionally confrontational or agitated individuals. Employees are expected to follow all applicable safety policies and procedures at all times. Office duties are generally performed in a climate‑controlled environment and involve prolonged periods of sitting, computer use, and telephone communication.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee must be able to walk, stand, sit, bend, stoop, kneel, climb, and reach; operate a motor vehicle; and use hands and fingers to handle objects, tools, and equipment. The employee must be able to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through electronic means. The position may require lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects weighing up to 10 pounds on a regular basis and heavier items occasionally with assistance.

Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must possess sufficient visual acuity and manual dexterity to operate computers, mobile devices, and other office and field equipment.

NOTICE

This job description identifies the primary duties and requirements of the position but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, tasks, or qualifications. Applicants who require reasonable accommodations during the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position are encouraged to contact Human Resources.

DISCLAIMER

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, working conditions, or physical requirements for this position. At their discretion, management reserves the right to assign, modify, or remove duties and responsibilities as operational needs require.