Scientist (Water Ecology), I - Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering

Field Inspection Officer – Building Water System Oversight (BWSO) The Office of Building Water System Oversight within the Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering is responsible for conducting inspections to ensure compliance with rules and regulations aimed at improving the operating conditions of engineered systems such as cooling towers, water tanks, evaporative condensers, internal plumbing, and wastewater systems. Conduct field inspections throughout the five boroughs for building water supply and distribution systems, including cooling towers, evaporative condensers, building plumbing, and wastewater systems. Review water management plans, equipment operation records, and physically inspect mechanical and chemical treatment equipment. Collect water samples and perform water quality analysis. Generate and submit field inspection reports according to Bureau inspection protocols. Conduct follow‑up compliance inspections as needed to mitigate potential risks. Provide customer service support to building owners, facility maintenance personnel, superintendents, and other responsible parties. Recommend improvements to regulatory compliance and corrective actions to eliminate environmental health hazards in line with NYC and NYS regulations. Review inspection findings and prepare evidence for the Office of Administrative Tribunal hearings. Assist with rapid response to signals from the Department's Legionnaires' disease surveillance system and implement response protocol. Prepare water samples for drop‑off or shipping to analytical laboratories, completing all necessary laboratory forms and documents. Conduct field surveys related to identifying potential Legionella exposure risks; review process schematics, engineering plans, drawings, and specifications for cooling tower systems and building water supply and distribution systems. Preferred Skills Academic background in environmental or chemical engineering, limnology, environmental science, marine science, geology, biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, or health science. Willingness to work in the field and travel throughout the five boroughs. Ability to climb ladders, work in tight spaces, and operate at high altitudes (e.g., building roofs). Knowledge or study in hazard mitigation, risk assessment, environmental investigations, or public health. Pass medical clearance and FIT testing for wearing appropriate PPE respirators; complete and pass agency‑required trainings and maintain required certificates and licenses. Strong interpersonal and customer service skills. Ability to perform data entry and navigate inspection programs on a portable device (iPhone or tablet). Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Access). Benefits Premium‑free health insurance plan. Additional health, fitness, and financial benefits based on the position’s associated union/benefit fund. Public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement. Tax‑deferred savings program. Robust Worksite Wellness Program offering resources and opportunities to maintain health while serving New Yorkers. Work‑from‑home policy allowing up to two days per week. Job security and the opportunity to contribute to the health of NYC residents. Scientist (Water Ecology) – Position 21538 Qualifications for the Scientist (Water Ecology) position include: A master’s degree from an accredited college or university in environmental or chemical engineering, limnology, environmental science, marine science, geology, biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, or health science; or A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with 24 semester credits in one or more of the aforementioned areas, at least 12 of which must be in those areas, and at least one year of full‑time, non‑educational experience in water quality planning, management, environmental laboratory analysis, or environmental field sampling of water; or An associate’s degree with 24 semester credits and at least three years of satisfactory full‑time experience in the above areas. Additional requirements for Assignment Levels II or III include a bachelor’s degree and an additional year’s experience, totaling two years of experience. A master’s degree may substitute up to two years of required experience. The City of New York is an inclusive equal‑opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or characteristic, including but not limited to sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy. Equal Opportunity Employment Statement: NYC Health Department is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation to all individuals. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact Sye‑Eun Ahn, Director of the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Water Otter Job Board