Water Quality Inspector

Term Full-Time (up to 6 months)
Competition #
HW26-12E
Title
Water Quality Inspector
Department
Regulatory Services
Primary Function

Perform both routine and response water quality sampling, processing, and analysis in source water tributaries and lakes, throughout the treatment process and in the distribution system. Investigate internal and external water quality complaints and issues and recommend methods for resolution.

You will be responsible for your personal safety and that of your co-workers by observing all Occupational Health and Safety Rules and Regulations and Halifax Water’s Occupational Health and Safety Program Manual.

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Carry out sample collection, processing, analysis and reporting from source water locations (tributaries and lakes), throughout the treatment process, and within the distribution system.
  • Responsible for the safe and proper operation of Halifax Water small, motorized watercraft and the health and safety of the boat crew.
  • Use the Water Quality Data Management system and various desktop and mobile applications to plan and execute sampling activities. This involves creating and tracking monitoring plans, activities and tasks, as well as working with third party laboratories and their systems, entering data and meeting quality assurance/quality control criteria.
  • Perform water quality sampling, analysis, investigations and reporting in response to water quality events in the drinking water source/treatment/distribution system. Recommend methods of resolution.
  • Perform customer investigations in response to water quality inquiries. This involves communication with customers and the general public, liaising with other departments, performing sample collection and analysis, developing resolutions, and reporting outcomes.
  • Provide water quality support, including investigations, to assist other departments in fulfilling operational goals, maintaining water quality throughout capital projects, and maintaining regulatory compliance.
  • Procure, commission, calibrate, operate, maintain, and deploy field water quality/quantity equipment, instruments and applications in source water, treatment and distribution systems.
  • Maintain inventory, procure chemicals, calibrate, operate and maintain lab equipment and supplies for various internal laboratory analyses. Update and maintain SDS documentation and safe laboratory policies and procedures.
  • Conduct activities related to delivering the Get the Lead Out program including but not limited to customer and contractor communication, program planning, executing sampling and filter programs, data analysis and interpretation, service line material investigations and record keeping.
  • Assist in the preparation of annual operational budgets, cost estimates and detailed quotes related to the acquisition of task specific equipment and services. Assist with tracking operational expenses.
  • Assist in developing, reviewing and implementing water quality strategies, policies, and procedures.
  • Support water quality related activities involving consultants, contractors, researchers and others related to water quality objectives and programs.
  • Standby on a rotational basis and any associated overtime based on operational requirements.
  • Establish and maintain comprehensive record keeping systems as required.
  • Perform other related duties as required
Reporting Relationships

Reports to: Water of Quality Manager or Water Quality Program Supervisor, as assigned

Supervises: n/a

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Education:

  • Undergraduate degree in engineering sciences (or a related field) with an emphasis on environmental sciences, water quality and/or municipal servicing (water, wastewater, stormwater); or a Technical Diploma with 2 years’ experience in water quality, chemistry, municipal servicing or a related field.

Experience:

  • 3 years practical experience in water quality and quantity monitoring, sampling, research, problem solving, laboratory and field testing and analysis
  • Previous experience in a similar environment
Other Requirements

Certificates / Licenses / Registrations:

  • Must possess a valid Nova Scotia Driver's License.
  • Will be required to undertake and maintain
    • First Aid,
    • Globalized Harmonized System (formerly WHMIS),
    • Traffic control,
    • Confined space entry training
    • Additional safety training as identified based on legislative and operational requirements.
    • Pleasure Craft Operator Card and boat safety training.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills, creative thinking and detail oriented to achieve accurate and innovative results.
  • Excellent customer service skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently or as a team with minimal supervision.
  • Demonstrate organizations skills and ability to keep detailed and accurate records.
  • Deal effectively with multiple demands and conflicting priorities.
  • Demonstrate ability to effectively deal with customers and respond to complaints.
  • Must have an elementary understanding of water quality chemistry, treatment processes and water quality instrumentation.
  • Must have a working knowledge of personal computers, spreadsheets, word processing software and web applications. Develop proficiency in the use of specialized software programs (i.e. SCADA/PI, Arc GIS, GIS, Field Maps, KLIR, PowerBI and other industry software).
  • Experience in drinking water quality investigations involving data collection, analysis, reporting and interactions with the public
  • Knowledge of drinking water infrastructure and systems including design, construction, operation and maintenance, and hydraulic principles.
  • Knowledge of specifications, industry standards, codes, legislation, rules and regulations relating to municipal drinking water.
  • Ability to Swim.
  • Prepared to work outside regular working hours if required.

Hours of Work: As per the Collective Agreement

Wage Rate: As per the Collective Agreement

How to Apply

Completed cover letters and resumes, application forms [PDF] (optional) quoting Competition #HW26-12E in the subject line (required) must be received by 12 noon on February 2, 2026. 

Please forward to:

Mail

  • Halifax Water
    HR Department
    P.O. Box 8388, RPO CSC
    Halifax, NS
    B3K 5M1

Fax

  • 902-490-6934

Email

Conditional Items Required for Employment:

  • Satisfactory background check
  • Satisfactory pre-employment testing

Halifax Water is an equal opportunity employer.

Halifax Water believes a diverse workforce positively contributes to its success, and the success of our community. We encourage applications from qualified African Nova Scotians, LGBTQ+ community, racially visible persons, women in non-traditional positions, persons with disabilities and Indigenous persons. Halifax Water encourages applicants to self-identify in the cover letter.