Pollution Control Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: See Position Description
Location : New Hanover County, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202600135
Department: ENGINEERING
Opening Date: 06/04/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Information
New Hanover County is seeking an experienced Erosion Control Supervisor (Engineering Specialist) to serve in the Engineering Department and oversee New Hanover County's Erosion and Sedimentation Control program as a state delegated local program to comply with the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 and the Clean Water Act. This position reviews construction plans, conducts inspections to ensure compliance with County ordinances and permits, and assists and educates the public regarding drainage, erosion, land stabilization and other related issues.
The ideal candidate possesses a thorough knowledge of engineering principles and practices related to hydrology, erosion and sedimentation control, construction methods, and applicable state laws and regulations. They are skilled in reviewing and interpreting engineering plans, construction drawings, calculations, maps, and technical documents to ensure regulatory compliance and sound project execution. Success in this role requires excellent oral and written communication skills, proficiency with engineering software, GIS applications, permitting databases, and local government technology platforms, as well as the ability to effectively manage permits, inspections, and project records through electronic systems.
Duties include:

• Coordinating the New Hanover County's Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program to ensure compliance with County ordinances, the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act, the Clean Water Act, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Reviewing erosion and sedimentation control plans, engineering calculations, and technical data for compliance with County ordinances and state regulations.
• Performing quality control on plan reviews and permitting activities.
• Ensuring compliance inspections are conducted in a thorough, consistent, and timely manner and that enforcement actions are appropriately administered.
• Evaluating program operations, identifying staffing, training, and operational needs, and implements process improvements to enhance program effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and customer service.
• Supervising, training, providing technical guidance and oversight, and managing the performance of the Erosion Control Inspector.
• Conducting preconstruction meetings and providing technical assistance, educational information, and regulatory guidance to developers, contractors, engineers, property owners, and the general public regarding erosion control requirements and construction activities.
• Interpreting construction plans, investigating complaints, and resolving disputes, delinquencies, and technical issues related to construction projects, drainage, flooding, and erosion control compliance.
• Consulting and coordinating with engineers, developers, contractors, property owners, regulatory agencies, and other County departments to resolve site issues and ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
• Documenting Notices of Violation, participating in enforcement and appeals processes, and monitoring corrective actions to ensure compliance with approved plans and ordinances.
• Preparing and submitting required reports, inspection records, enforcement documentation, and program data to the NC Department of Environmental Quality - Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources.
• Maintaining accurate records, inspection documentation, complaint tracking, and data entry using multiple computer systems and software programs.
• Performing work with regular and predictable attendance in support of County operational and scheduling needs.
• Performing duties during emergency or disaster response situations as assigned.
• Performing other duties of a similar nature or level as assigned.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.
Living in New Hanover County, NC:
New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.
Hours:
Hours are 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Must be available to work during emergency situations.
Salary Information:
The target hiring rangefor this position is $56,351-$76,074. The full salary range for an incumbent hired into this position is $56,351 to $95,797. Starting salary will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, internal equity, and budget. Candidates with exceptional qualifications and experience may be considered for a starting salary above the target hiring range, but not to exceed the maximum of the salary range.
Candidates validated as bilingual by the County's Language Access Coordinator are eligible for a pay differential when performing bilingual duties during scheduled work hours, in accordance with County policy.
New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more

Please check out our careers page atfor more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS
This position requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently to or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The position requires the ability to work independently in the field, navigate construction sites and undeveloped terrain, operate a vehicle, and locate and inspect permitted properties throughout the county.
Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, manual dexterity, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity and walking.
The work is performed primarily outdoors where the employee may be exposed to varying temperature and/or weather conditions and other environmental conditions. Occasionally, work may be performed in an office or indoor setting with typical levels of noise and disruptions where the employee may be exposed to varying temperature and/or weather conditions.
Qualifications
Associate's Degree in Engineering or a related field, and two (2) years of technician experience in erosion and sedimentation control or an equivalent combination of training and experience sufficient to successfully perform the duties of the position as listed above.
Bachelor's degree in an Environmental or Engineering curriculum such as Civil, Environmental or Biological Engineering, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Soil Conservation, Forestry, Agronomy or a related field from an accredited college or university, is preferred.
Licenses/Certifications

• Valid North Carolina Driver License required by first date of employment with good driving record.
• Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) or equivalent.

Must be obtained no later than one (1) year of employment

• Certified Erosion, Sediment and Stormwater Inspector.

Other Information
This role is posted continuously until filled, with a priority application date of Wednesday June 25th. After the priority application date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.
In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2(b), if this position requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the county must require the applicant to undergo a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI for all offers of employment made after October 1, 2025. These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S. 143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties. Additional information on how to complete this required check will be provided to the selected candidate after an offer of employment is accepted.
New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
New Hanover County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity to include

• Employer paid 401k deferred compensation contributions (5% for sworn law enforcement and 2.5% for all other benefits eligible positions);
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Employee assistance program;
• 100% employer paid long term disability;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

Benefit options for eligible positions include medical, dental, elective supplemental insurance options including short-term disability, vision, flexible spending accounts, voluntary term life, cancer, accident, and critical illness policies. Employees who elect medical and dental insurance within the specified timelines provided during on-boarding, will have coverage effective on their date of hire. For more information about New Hanover County benefit options, including our benefit rates, please click
Please check out our careers page at for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.
Note: All positions listed as temporary, casual part time, volunteer, and intern are not eligible to receive benefits. Part-time position with fewer than 20 scheduled hours per week will not include benefits.
01
Do you have a current certification as a Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) or an equivalent certification?

• Yes
• No

02
Please indicate your years of experience working in an erosion control program.

• No experience working in an erosion control program.
• Less than 2 years of experience working in an erosion control program.
• 2 years but fewer than 3 years of experience working in an erosion control program.
• 3 or more years of experience working in an erosion control program.

03
Do you have a current certification as an Erosion, Sediment and Stormwater Inspector?

• Yes
• No

04
Do you have experience reviewing construction plans and/or conducting inspections to ensure compliance with ordinances and permits?

• Yes
• No

05
If you have indicated that you have experience reviewing construction plans and/or conducting inspections to ensure compliance with County ordinances and permits, please provide a brief explanation about your experience in this area.
06
Are you able to fulfill the physical requirements of the position, as specified in this job posting?

• Yes
• No

Required Question