Environmental Protection Specialist I

~ San Antonio Water System (SAWS) employees go beyond what is expected. We are committed to providing sustainable and affordable water services, and believe our responsibility extends further — to the environment and the community we serve. ~

Accomplishments like these don't just happen. They begin with refreshing ideas from a diverse workforce that believes in our values of excellence, integrity and respect. If you want to be part of a team committed to developing ideas and programs that provide solid opportunities for the community, consider a career at SAWS.

Position Overview

The Environmental Protection Specialist I is responsible for conducting routine inspections, flushing, and chlorine testing used to ensure water quality levels for regulatory compliance. Documents site activities and test results and performs related administrative work. The Environmental Protection Specialist I possesses basic knowledge of department policies, procedures, and applicable regulations. 

Responsibilities

• Inspects and flushes designated dead-end mains in accordance with System procedures.
• Conducts chlorine and related testing at site and documents results and action taken.
• Uses and calibrates test kits to test different parameters.
• Keys and maintains field data in database.
• Conducts quality assurance checks to validate accuracy of data collected.
• Inspects selected sites in response to customer complaints of concern and/or potential pollution sources.
• Maintains and cleans vehicles, equipment, and tools.
• Locates and identifies dead-end mains using GIS.
• May conduct basic analysis of data for inclusion in technical reports.
• May assist customers by answering general questions and providing appropriate information.
• May perform regulatory required sampling.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Decision Making:

• Receives immediate supervision.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Eighteen months' experience in maintenance or construction of water/wastewater systems, or related environmental activities.
• Obtain and maintain Class "D" Water License or higher within 6 months of hire/assignment.
• Valid class "C" Texas Driver's License consistent with SAWS Driving Policy.
• Perform position specific physical testing.

Job Dimensions:

• Knowledge of materials, tools, and equipment typically used in maintenance or construction.
• Knowledge of SAWS safety practices and procedures, as it applies to work being performed.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to perform all physical requirements of the job.
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to use a computer and work related systems.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to maintain and establish effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and general public.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Physical requirements include lifting/carrying up to 60 pounds occasionally; pushing a maximum force of 100 pounds; pulling a maximum force of 100 pounds.
• Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, and working in cramped and strained positions for long periods of time.
• Working conditions are both in an office environment and a field environment where there is a heavy traffic, construction, rugged terrain, and inclement and hazardous environmental conditions.
• If a part of the "emergency response team" must be able to complete the requirements as specified in applicable regulations for Hazardous Materials Emergency Response, including clearance for use of respiratory protection and other associated protective equipment.
• Operates a company vehicle on a daily basis.
• May be required to work hours other than regular schedule such as nights, weekends, and holidays.

Compensation