Water Quality Specialist 3 - Pollution Response and Correction

Job Overview Why it's a Great Opportunity: In this role you play a key part in protecting Pierce County's streams, lakes, groundwater, and Puget Sound by investigating pollution incidents, responding to spills, and helping prevent contaminants from entering the stormwater system. You will inspect public and private facilities, identify sources of pollution, collect and analyze environmental samples, and work with property owners, businesses, and partner agencies to resolve water quality concerns. The role combines field investigations, technical analysis, problem‑solving, and collaboration to protect our community's natural resources. Core Responsibilities Lead a water quality unit or program or project; assign work to a specific work unit and ensure tasks are completed correctly and timely; may approve leave requests and work schedules; provide input on performance evaluations. Conduct field investigations, interview witnesses, research property information, review applicable codes, photograph site, take water quality samples and gather additional evidence as necessary to confirm or identify violations. Provide direction, assistance and training to less experienced employees. Correspond with citizens, engineers, contractors, and other agencies regarding spill prevention, water quality protection, and stormwater management; respond to complex questions and information requests regarding best management practices and stormwater management regulations. Oversee stream flow discharge following the USGS guidelines. Conduct monitoring of publicly‑owned outfalls for stormwater characterization. Conduct effectiveness monitoring of specific best management practices. Conduct flow monitoring. Prepare quality assurance project plans (QAPPs) for monitoring programs. Conduct and direct on‑site inspections of sophisticated or complex stormwater management facilities associated with industrial, commercial, and multi‑family land use; determine or verify the proper operation and maintenance of stormwater management facilities and implementation of stormwater Best Management Practices. Meet with various entities and inform of violations; explain code intent and provide options on resolution through written and verbal communication. Work Environment This position is a 60/40 split between office and field work. Field inspections and investigations occur outdoors in urban areas, requiring safety awareness. Work takes place near roads, rivers, streams, lakes, stormwater areas, flooded sites, and sensitive locations, often in cold, wet, or rough terrain. Tasks involve walking, bending, reaching, pushing, pulling equipment, and lifting heavy stormwater components such as catch basin lids that may weigh over 40 pounds. Qualifications Four years of college or post‑high school technical training AND Three or more years of progressively responsible related experience. Additional Information Additional education or experience may substitute equally for the recruiting requirements. A background check is required by condition of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr Pierce County