CITY OF WHITTIER Water Treatment Plant Operator I/II (1-21) Salary in the United States

WILL CLOSE AFTER 150 COMPLETED APPLICATIONS OR FEBRUARY 8, 2021. Class specifications are only intended to present a descriptive summary of the range of duties and responsibilities associated with specified positions. Therefore, specifications may not include all duties performed by individuals within a classification. In addition, specifications are intended to outline the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into the class and do not necessarily convey the qualifications of incumbents within the position. DEFINITION: Under general supervision, this position operates the Water Division's computerized supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system and ensures an adequate supply of water and pressure; operates and maintains a GAC groundwater treatment plant, follows blending procedures for manganese and PCE treatment, ensures 4-log disinfection for treatment plant effluent, performs or facilitates repairs on all booster pumps, wells, reservoirs, automated valves, and related equipment; conducts water facility inspections and performs preventative maintenance procedures; understands water treatment chemistry and uses basic laboratory equipment to monitor, operate, and maintain chemical disinfection systems; coordinates and conducts the water quality sampling program and ensures compliance with appropriate regulatory agencies; responds to emergency situations; performs related duties as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Water Treatment Plant Operator I The Water Treatment Plant Operator I is the entry/trainee level class in the Water Treatment Plant Operator series that allows the incumbent to develop journey level knowledge and abilities. Initially, under immediate supervision, incumbents perform the more routine and less complex assignments within an established procedural framework, where there are minimal consequences of error, including a wide variety of operation and maintenance tasks in water treatment plant operations, maintenance, and repair. As experience is gained, there is greater independence of action within established guidelines. This classification is distinguished from the next higher level classification of Water Treatment Plant Operator II by the performance of work requiring a lesser degree of skill in performing installation, preventative maintenance, and repair to water systems equipment. Water Treatment Plant Operator II The Water Treatment Plant Operator II is the journey level class in the Water Treatment Plant Operator series in which incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned duties and demonstrate experience in installation, preventative maintenance and repair activity of water treatment systems. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Water Production Supervisor in that the latter is responsible for assisting in the overall supervision of the water production systems and programs. SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED: Water Treatment Plant Operator I Receives immediate supervision from the Water Production Supervisor or Water Production Specialist. Incumbents in this class do not routinely exercise supervision. Water Treatment Plant Operator II Receives general supervision from the Water Production Supervisor or Water Production Specialist. May provide technical and functional supervision to maintenance workers and/or assigned workers.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:(include but are not limited to the following) Monitors SCADA system and makes necessary adjustments in order to maintain an adequate supply of water and pressure; reads and records water production and electrical usage meters at pump station and well locations and other related facilities; monitors and adjusts pressure regulators within the water system, may respond to emergency situations. Operates and performs installation, routine preventative maintenance, and repair of water systems, equipment, and facilities; investigates and may perform repair related to spills or pump failures; controls the level of water in the reservoir by reducing or increasing water production from wells. Operates valves and other controls to direct chemicals into water treatment systems; regulates and controls the flow of water from wells and through treatment systems; reads and interprets meters and charts; maintains related records. Draws samples and performs routine tests according to established procedures; monitors chlorine usage and residuals; maintains related records. Inspects water equipment and facilities on a daily basis; provides minor repairs as needed; maintains filters and control valves; assists in the collection and review of water samples from wells, reservoirs, and the distribution systems; ensures water samples meet State water quality requirements. Operates and maintains pumping equipment, reservoirs, and treatment facilities; inspects and evaluates the operational efficiencies of booster pumps and wells; reads and understands the meaning of recording devices used in pumping operations; performs maintenance, repair, and installation on water facilities and related equipment; implements water quality testing programs, hydrant flushing/testing, and valve exercising; performs periodic preventative maintenance on system components. Maintains detailed records of lubrication, calibration, and maintenance performed on equipment, tools, and machinery; performs skilled maintenance work or coordinates contractual repairs on pump stations and well buildings or other related facilities. Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, State/local agencies, City management and staff, and the public. OTHER DUTIES: (include but are not limited to the following) Operates light and moderately heavy power-driven equipment, and performs routine equipment and vehicle maintenance. Answers emergency calls from the public and other agencies taking appropriate action. May be exposed to confidential and privileged information during the course of duties, which should be maintained as such. Performs other related duties as required. PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work, reading documents, and operating assigned office and/or field equipment. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in preparing reports using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading written reports and work related documents. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, carry, and push tools, equipment, and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds may also be required. Additionally, the position may require outdoors field work in all weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold. The position may use chemicals and lubricants, which may expose the employee to fumes, dust, and air contaminants, and be exposed to mechanical, electrical and biological hazards. The nature of the work may also require the incumbent to work in confined spaces, climb ladders, and work at heights over 10 feet; use power and noise producing tools and equipment, and drive motorized vehicles in heavy vehicle traffic conditions. The incumbent may be required to respond to after hours emergency call-outs and be able to respond preferably within 60 minutes. The City of Whittier encourages applications from qualified individuals with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and California Fair Employment and Housing Act. Individuals who require accommodation in the application or testing process should contact the Human Resources staff at least 5 days prior to the application deadline or 5 days prior to the testing process so that a reasonable accommodation may be made. Persons requesting a reasonable accommodation will be required to provide documentation of such need. Seeking or receiving an accommodation by the City will have no negative impact on an individual's application or employment.QUALIFICATIONS: (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) Education and/or Experience: Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Water Treatment Plant Operator I/II. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of a high school diploma: Water Treatment Plant Operator I Willingness to learn and perform duties associated with water operations. Water Treatment Plant Operator II In addition to the above, one year of experience in the operation and routine maintenance of water systems equivalent to that of a Water Treatment Plant Operator I in the City of Whittier. License/Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California driver's license. Water Treatment Plant Operator I Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Grade II Certification in Water Treatment issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Water Treatment Plant Operator II Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Grade III Certification in Water Treatment issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS: (The following are a representative sample of the KAS's necessary to perform essential duties of the position. The level and scope of the knowledge and abilities listed below vary between the I and II levels.) Knowledge of: Equipment and procedures involved in the operation and routine maintenance of water systems; maintenance requirements of pumps; modern principles, practices, methods, and materials used in the operation, maintenance, and treatment of potable water treatment facilities; operational characteristics of water facility equipment, including pumps, electric motors, electrical panels, piping, wells, hydrants, valves, and tanks; principles and practices of bacteriological sampling techniques and mathematical analysis; an operational understanding of high voltage electrical circuitry and motor controls; chemical dosage calculations and use of basic laboratory instruments; applicable Federal, State and local laws, codes, and regulations; methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments; modern office procedures, practices, methods, and equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation; proper English, spelling, and grammar; and occupational hazards and standard safety practices. Ability to: Operate and perform routine maintenance on equipment related to water systems; draw samples and performs routine tests; read and interpret meters and charts; calculate chlorine dosages, blending volumes, reservoir volumes and water production; operate and maintain pumping equipment; read and understand the meaning of recording devices used in pumping operations; perform maintenance, repair, and installation on water facilities and related equipment; implement water quality testing programs, hydrant flushing/testing, and valve exercising; perform periodic preventative maintenance on system components; keep routine records; work effectively in the absence of supervision; understand and follow verbal and written directions; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; read and interpret water maps, blueprints, and schematics; organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships. Skill to: Safely and effectively operate a variety of diagnostic equipment and power and hand tools used in water production systems maintenance.Prior to hiring, candidates will be required to submit proof of U.S. Citizenship or employment authorization if not a U. S. Citizen. Medical: Applicants will be required as a prerequisite to employment to successfully pass a physical examination, including a drug screen, the cost of which will be paid by the City. Selection/Exam Process: Based on a review of the applications received, the candidates appearing to be the most qualified and meeting the City's particular needs will be invited in writing to the exam process. A candidate must achieve a passing score on each exam to proceed to the next exam. Exam Information: (Dates to be determined.) Oral Interview: 100% The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice. The City of Whittier is an Equal Opportunity Employer