Specialist, Compliance WQ - (26-WQ&T-813012-121

Specialist, Compliance WQ

The Specialist, Compliance WQ is responsible for assisting in the development, implementation, and monitoring of customer compliance programs (backflow prevention and grease abatement) and the hydrant‑use permit program. This position is involved in a broad range of responsibilities including, but not limited to, conducting field compliance inspections; tracking and enforcing code and regulation requirements regarding cross‑connection control, unauthorized water use, temporary hydrant use and sewer discharge permits;

developing enforcement codes; monitoring industry trends; drafting letters describing inspection findings; communicating to customers; and educating stakeholders.

• Ensuring customers’ water, wastewater, and industrial waste systems are in compliance with governing DC Plumbing Codes, DC Municipal Regulations, and DC Water Policies.
• Assist in the development and monitoring of DC Water’s customer compliance programs.
• Provide technical support to internal customers within DC Water and other agencies on backflow prevention and cross connection issues; represent the Authority at public meetings.
• Schedule and conduct site inspections of water and sewer connections, meter yokes, backflow prev enters, and grease interceptors.
• Inspect industrial sewer dischargers such as hospitals and chemical plants to ensure compliance with discharge permits.
• Process issuance and return of fire hydrant meters and backflow prev enters with customers and internal tracking in database and billing systems.
• Process fire hydrant meter readings and account refunds in database and billing systems.
• Schedule and conduct site inspections to recover fire hydrant meters and backflow prev enters from customers with expired permits and investigate reported illegal connections to fire hydrants.
• Inspect, test, and repair fire hydrant meters and backflow prev enters.
• Communicate to all stakeholders verbally and through written reports, letters, and emails regarding inspection findings, recommendations, and requirements for compliance.
• Respond to and assist staff with emergency investigations.
• Operate Authority vehicles as an essential function; maintain vehicles and equipment in a clean and orderly manner and report deficiencies.
• Perform other related duties and projects as assigned at the discretion of the supervisor.

Interacts with co‑workers in the department and throughout DC Water, contractors, other government agencies, professional organizations, the general public, etc.

Two (2) years of progressive experience associated with water, wastewater, or cross‑connection field work; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Skill in using database and GIS applications.
• Skill in communicating orally and in writing.
• Ability to read maps and blueprints.
• Skill in troubleshooting, sampling, and operating field monitoring equipment.
• Maintains a working knowledge of applicable software programs (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, databases, e‑mail).

• Must possess and maintain a valid Motor Vehicle Operating License.
• Must have or obtain within 1 year from date of hire a valid backflow testing certification from an accrediting agency.

• Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Exposure to extreme cold and/or hot temperatures.
• Areas classified as confined space.
• Exposure to atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system or skin (fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases or poor ventilation, or exposure to oils or other cutting fluids).

We maintain a drug‑free workplace and perform pre‑employment substance abuse testing.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V.

The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against “qualified individuals with disabilities”. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please email