Soil Scientist

Class Characteristics

Under general supervision to conduct plan reviews and on-site soil investigations to determine the feasibility of septic systems; and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Planning and Zoning Division within the Department of Transportation and Development provides services for processing land use, building, and septic permit applications for compliance with the Clackamas County Zoning and Development Ordinance and applicable state and federal laws. The long range planning services address the future planning needs of the community through updates to the Comprehensive Plan, County Code, and other special projects. Services provided by the septic and onsite waste water program include evaluating proposed sites for on-site sewage disposal and inspecting newly constructed, existing or failing on-site sewage disposal systems consistent with DEQ codes and County ordinances, and conducting field inspections of same as necessary.

The Soil Scientist is responsible for evaluating proposed sites for on-site sewage disposal or inspecting newly constructed, existing or failing on-site sewage disposal systems consistent with DEQ codes and County ordinances, and conducting field inspections of same as necessary.

The Soil Scientist is distinguished from the Senior Soil Scientist by the latter's responsibility to provide technical guidance and lead work supervision of soil inspection personnel. It is distinguished from the Soil Scientist Associate, which is the "Trainee" level in the series.

Typical Tasks

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

1. Reviews and approves or denies on-site sewage disposal permits and building permits requiring on-site sewage disposal; answers questions regarding septic system permit processes, soil evaluation studies, soil investigations, existing septic system reviews and variance procedures.
2. Conducts on-site soil investigations and evaluation studies; gathers information to determine whether the site is suitable for a septic system; analyzes soil samples and determines if soil characteristics, slope, surface water, and potential ground water sources meet current standards.
3. Reviews submitted designs for septic systems based on site and soil characteristics, Department of Environmental Quality rules and County codes.
4. Provides technical guidance to the general public regarding septic system installations, site characteristics and repair options for failing septic systems via the telephone, in person or in writing.
5. Reviews Planning Department applications for consistency with sewage disposal regulations.
6. Investigates complaints or observations of State, regional or local environmental law violations.
7. Prepares reports and completes correspondence regarding field investigations; maintains records for septic inspections, certificates and other programs.

Required Knowledge and Skills

Working knowledge of: Department of Environmental Quality regulations; general principles of geology, hydrology and soil science; septic design, septic system design standards and practices; basic math and statistics; on-site septic system field inspection procedures and practices; County permit process and zoning regulations; English grammar and composition.

Skill to: Interpret and create scale drawings; determine soil profiles and textural classifications; discriminate between functional, marginal and non-functional septic systems; provide advice on septic system installations; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; interpret topographic maps and profiles; prepare detailed reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Working Conditions

Duties require frequent standing, walking, squatting, bending, twisting, kneeling, reaching, digging, balancing, climbing, fine motor control, and the ability to lift 50 pounds and carry up to 25 pounds. Duties also involve frequent exposure to confined spaces, loud noises, slippery and/or uneven surfaces, dust, and adverse weather conditions.

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: None required.

Licenses/Certifications:
The following licensure/certifications are required at the time of hire.

• Registration by the State of Oregon as an Environmental Health Specialist or Wastewater Specialist.

Pre-Employment Requirements

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.

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.

Edited: 3/17

Classification No. 913
Established: 11/90
Revised: 5/07, 9/14, 6/18
FLSA: Exempt
EEO: 3