Environmental Technician II

Job Appointment: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Mon‑Fri, 8 am – 5 pm (alternate schedule may be available)

Work Location: See below

Benefits: Please check our benefits tab for an overview of benefits for this position

Union Representation: PROTEC
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Environmental Technician II – Industrial Permitting Program (BES)

The City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) is seeking an Environmental Technician II to join the Industrial Permitting Program.

Primary responsibility: managing the compliance of local industries that discharge industrial wastewater to the City’s sanitary sewer system through Industrial Waste Discharge Permits and other control mechanisms. Duties include inspections, review of analytical and compliance reports, evaluation of permit compliance, data entry, and enforcement actions. Approximately 25‑30% of the time is spent in the field.

What you’ll get to do

• Manage approximately 25 Industrial Waste Discharge Permits
• Analyze and review IWDP application materials for permit issuance
• Conduct thorough inspections of industries to evaluate compliance with permit requirements
• Draft, issue, and follow up on enforcement actions to ensure permit compliance
• Perform data entry and management using the City’s LINKO database
• Assist with sanitary sewer system incident investigations as assigned
• Apply basic biological, chemical, and physical principles in assessing industrial processes and wastewater pollutants
• Evaluate wastewater pollutant treatment systems
• Manage difficult situations with industry representatives in a positive manner
• Communicate professionally with internal and external stakeholders including enforcement, FOG, laboratory, and field operations staff

Ideal Candidate

• Strong working knowledge of industrial pretreatment, industrial operations, and interpretation of analytical data
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships
• Ability to explain and present technical information clearly and effectively
• Ability to support implementation of a strict regulatory program
• Ability to maintain working relationships with industries while ensuring compliance with City regulations
• Knowledge of treatment plant operations and biosolids

About the Bureau of Environmental Services

This is an exciting time to join the Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) as we re‑imagine our work to align with Our Values. BES focuses on equity, customer service, careful stewardship of watersheds and infrastructure, leadership, workforce diversity, respectful communication, and innovative solutions.

Environmental Technician II – Water Quality Division (PWB)

The position serves in the Water Quality Division, overseeing monitoring across the water system and analyzing and reporting data to ensure regulatory compliance and public health protection.

Primary responsibilities include collecting water samples, performing field measurements throughout the distribution system and source waters, operating sampling equipment, managing data, assisting in water quality investigations, collaborating across groups, and performing data analysis and reporting. A valid state driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required. Approximately 50‑75% of the time is spent in the field.

What you’ll get to do

• Collect regulatory samples for coliform bacteria and test for chlorine, pH, turbidity, temperature, and conductivity in the distribution system
• Test for indicators of nitrification to help optimize tank operations
• Conduct limnological monitoring from a boat in the Bull Run Reservoirs for operations and seasonal trend analysis
• Hike to tributary monitoring stations in the Bull Run Watershed to collect storm event samples
• Assist with groundwater monitoring in the Columbia South Shore Well Field
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot water quality field instruments
• Respond to water quality incidents, customer complaints, and conduct special investigations
• Perform data entry and review in the Laboratory Information Management System
• Review and improve SOPs and field sampling Quality Management System documents

Ideal Candidate

• Strong working knowledge of biological, physical, and chemical principles as applied to water quality
• Ability to work within a regulatory compliance setting
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships
• Ability to explain and present technical information clearly and effectively
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in the field
• Ability to uphold a culture of workforce safety
• Desire and ability to work outdoors, year‑round
• Passion for water quality and public health

About the Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves almost a million people, employing over 600 people for responsive service and maintaining the water system that enhances public health and safety.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

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