Environmental Services Technician

Class Characteristics

Under supervision, to perform routine monitoring and sampling of industrial discharges, storm and surface water, and soils; to collect and preserve samples in the field; to monitor, evaluate and determine acceptance of septage, storm and surface water based on predetermined criteria; and to conduct inspections of non-domestic discharging facilities, and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Clackamas Water Environment Services (WES) produces clean water, protects water quality, and recovers renewable resources through the provision of wastewater services, stormwater management, and environmental education. Through the management of various resource recovery facilities, pumping stations, and compliance initiatives throughout the district, WES protects public health and supports the vitality of the communities serviced, the natural environment, and the economy.

The Environmental Services Technician participates in a work team to ensure private businesses within the service districts of the County comply with Federal, State and local regulations governing the discharge of industrial wastewater. The Environmental Services Technician samples and monitors industrial discharges, surface water, stormwater, biosolids, septage and other environmental media as needed. They assist in conducting routine private business inspections and maintains associated records in conformance with established procedures.

The Environmental Services Technician differs from the Environmental Services Specialist by its focus on monitoring and sampling of industrial discharges, storm and surface water discharges, septage, and soils, and by its lesser involvement in scope and activity of non-compliance, investigative and enforcement issues.

Typical Tasks

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Performs industrial pretreatment and surface water monitoring, and biosolids sampling in accordance with department safety procedures; prepares sampling requests; performs laboratory testing in field and preserves samples for further analysis; maintains records of flow monitoring from district's permanent monitoring stations; maintains sampling records in conformance with chain of custody procedures.
2. Contacts customers to schedule soil sampling; collects soil samples from fields prior to and after application of biosolids; prepares samples for shipment to laboratory. 
3. Collects septage samples prior to introduction into system; evaluates and determines acceptance of septage based upon predetermined criteria including conducting basic pH tests; monitors discharging facilities on a regular basis.
4. Assist Environmental Service Specialists in scheduling and conducting inspections of private businesses for compliance with WES' wastewater and stormwater Rules, Regulations, and permits; maintains inspection records in accordance with DEQ and related regulatory requirements.
5. Inspects, monitors and adjusts instruments such as flow meters and samplers; performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs; calibrates, programs and maintains flow meters, samplers, and related environmental monitoring equipment.
6. Performs sampling of streams and tributaries within WES' Service Area; maintains chain of custody records on all surface water samples collected; compiles data on stream characteristics; reports unusual circumstances to Environmental Services staff.
7. Collects, compiles, enters data into computer and analyzes data using various computer applications; compiles data for internal and regulatory compliance purposes; reviews industrial self-monitoring reports; maintains records regarding compliance reports and monitoring status; identifies industries in non-compliance with permit standards, local, state and federal regulations; informs Environmental Services staff of non-compliance events.
8. Gathers samples of unusual discharges to the treatment plants and sanitary and storm water collection systems; assists in determining the type of pollutant and developing strategies to identify sources of discharge; collects samples for other programs within the Department.
9. Responds to routine inquiries related to the industrial wastewater permitting process; assists in reviewing permit applications for completeness; gathers supporting documentation; refers new or complex applications to higher-level staff for further review and final determination.

Required Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of wastewater collection and treatment; principles and practices of wastewater sampling, preservation of samples, and laboratory analysis; Federal, State and district regulations pertinent to resource recovery and industrial pretreatment programs.

Working knowledge of: Industrial processes used by industrial pretreatment systems; surface and storm water sampling techniques; soil sample collection and preparation; district pretreatment, biosolids and resource recovery policies and procedures; sampling techniques and equipment; principles of basic chemical reactions; drainage structures.

Skill to: Communicate effectively and tactfully with the public, industrial users and other employees; prepare clear and concise report drafts; employ appropriate procedures for sampling, and for testing, interpreting and reporting laboratory findings with a high degree of accuracy and precision; maintain accurate records including chain of custody on all samples collected; use computer spreadsheet and database software programs and equipment associated with industrial pretreatment; make basic and algebraic mathematical calculations necessary to complete assigned work; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Working Conditions

Duties require physical labor, including walking, reaching, squatting, kneeling, bending, balancing, climbing, shoveling, fine motor control, and ability to lift up to 50 pounds, carry, and push/pull up to 70 pounds. Duties also involve exposure to bacteria, viruses and toxins in wastewater, chemicals, exhaust fumes and dust, loud noises, and vibration. Some duties involve exposure to adverse weather conditions and hazardous locations, such as streets, live sewers, confined underground areas and on elevated platforms.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum qualifications are used as a guide for establishing the minimum experience, education, licensure, and/or certifications required for employment in the classification. The following minimum qualifications are established for this classification. Additional minimum qualifications and special conditions may apply to a specific position within this classification and will be stated on the job announcement.

Experience: A minimum of one (1) year of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.

Licenses/Certifications: None required.

Pre-Employment Requirements

Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.

Employment is contingent upon passing a post-offer physical assessment. Accommodation requests will be reviewed on an individual basis in compliance with State and Federal legislation.

Post-Employment Requirements

Oregon Confined Space Entry certification is required within three months of hire.

Edited: 6/16

Classification No. 775
Established: 1/98
Revised: 7/00
Revised and Retitled: 8/25
FLSA: Non-Exempt
EEO: 3