Summary
This job involves conducting detailed chemical and bacteriological tests on wastewater and environmental samples to ensure they meet regulatory standards for the City of Houston's water and wastewater systems.
The role includes preparing solutions, maintaining lab equipment, interpreting results, and following quality procedures in a lab setting.
It's a good fit for someone with a chemistry background and hands-on lab experience who enjoys technical analysis and working with environmental regulations.
Full Job Description

Applications Accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Service Line/Section: Houston Water/Wastewater Regulatory Compliance
Location: 10500 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX
Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m.- 4:00p.m.
*Subject to change*
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Performs highly technical chemical analysis according to clearly prescribed standard operating procedures and laboratory techniques and methodologies. Performs highly technical chemical and bacteriological analyses of wastewater, industrial waste, pollution and/or other environmental samples. Prepares standard solutions and reagents for chemical testing. Reviews and interprets test results for various methods including BOD/CBOD, Ammonia, TSS, Microbiology, Metals, Mercury and VOCs. Handles instrument troubleshooting and maintenance; makes minor repairs; diagnoses and corrects instrument software problems. Designs and implements quality assurance procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONSThere are routine exposures to chemical hazards, unknown samples and moderate levels of heat, cold, moisture and 11 air pollution. The position may involve periodic exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns. The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, (up to 20 pounds) may be required. The position may require long periods of standing and/or sitting in one place at a time.
This is a Houston Public Works Emergency Management Position at the Tier II Level.
Requirements
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a closely related field.
When assigned to Public Works Department:
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a closely related field, along with a detailed knowledge of water and wastewater treatment practices as well as Federal and State regulations concerning environmental and potable water quality.
Should be skilled in the use of personal computers, equipped with
commercially available software, for data interpretation, manipulation and report preparation.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Two years of analytical experience, at least one of which involved use of sophisticated electronic instrumentation, in a laboratory or closely related facility are required.
SUBSTITUTION:
A Master's degree in Chemistry or a closely related field may be substituted for the experience requirement.
Qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants with experience in Environmental Laboratory and/or Wastewater testing.
Preference will be given to applicants with experience using LIMS, specifically Clinisys Element.
**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified 15 candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**
Additional Information
SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: None
However, the department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: Yes
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
Pay Grade 21
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfmor please call 832.393.6120.
"If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-393-6120. (TTY 7-1-1)
"If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, with specific instructions, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
EOE Equal Opportunity Employment
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.