System Operator

Description
The System Operator / Technician class is responsible for monitoring, maintaining and operating the recycled and potable water distribution systems and the waste water collection system. Under general supervision, this position performs skilled repairs, preventive maintenance on pump equipment and related systems such as: pumps, motors, valves, surge arresters, chlorinators, and air compressors. The incumbent is responsible for participating and implementing operational strategies with an effort to maintain the highest water quality for our customers, responding to calls and inquiries related to system operations and assisting with emergency situations.  Duties include:  monitoring the operation of the recycled and water distribution system utilizing the District’s SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system; monitoring water quality parameters; monitoring and adjusting flows from reservoirs, intakes, San Diego County Water Authority Flow Control Facilities, and turnouts; monitoring and regulating valves, pumping facilities, chlorination and other related equipment; operating automated and SCADA controls; documenting and evaluating data collected in the field; monitoring sewage lift stations and sewage collection systems; performing preventive maintenance, servicing and performing minor repairs on equipment; preparing and maintaining required documents and paperwork; optimizing operations to reduce energy expenditures; troubleshooting and repairing pump equipment and related systems; performing operational tests on motors, turbine and centrifugal pumps and various valves; evaluating the condition of related and auxiliary equipment and making recommendations for repairs; performing minor electrical work; assisting with the inspection of work done by contractors;  purchasing equipment and supplies; providing input for yearly budget considerations; responding to after-hours system emergencies; and such other duties as may be assigned.

Essential Duties
This is a broadband position with emphasis in three disciplines; Systems Operator, Pump Technician, and Valve Technician. We are currently only hiring into the Pump Technician Position or the System Operator Position.

Systems Operator:

1. Operates the water distribution system and recycled water distribution system by anticipating flow demands, calculating pumping and intake flow rates and daily operational changes and investigating alarms or abnormal conditions.  Keeps records and information by documenting required data, monitors access to field facilities by District staff and contractors, and communicates operational information to coworkers.
2. Monitors water quality parameters of both potable and recycled water systems to include cycling of reservoirs, detention time, chlorine feed rates, chlorination stations, system residuals, system flushing, and water sampling as required by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
3. Responds to water main breaks in emergency situations; assesses, plans and conducts emergency shut downs of transmission and distribution pipelines.  Provides feedback to Operations staff and supervisor.
4. Monitors and operates sewage lift stations, control systems and related software, to manipulate wet well levels and pump flows. Uses trending charts to help determine causes and find solutions to failures.
5. Calibrates, operates, and maintains chlorine generating and injection equipment. Uses mathematical formulas to compute proper dosages for chlorine injections.
6. Responds to after-hours system emergencies.
7. Receives after hours District security alarms from District field facilities and investigates potential security vulnerabilities.
8. Maintains Electronic records of daily operations, system residuals, facility performance and chlorine generation and injection equipment.
9. Oversees District power efficiency programs optimizing system pumping to avoid power curtailments and Time of Use (TOU) restrictions.
10. Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Pump Technician:

1. Performs skilled repairs and preventive maintenance on pump equipment and related systems and appurtenances. Repairs and maintains pump equipment, motors, pressure reducing stations, monitors long term performance of pumps and motors.
2. Monitors water quality parameters of both potable and recycled water systems to include cycling of reservoirs, detention time, chlorine feed rates, chlorination stations, system residuals, system flushing, and water sampling as required by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
3. Performs operational tests on motors, valves and pump stations to determine the condition of equipment and, based on test data, makes recommendations.
4. Inspects work done by maintenance contractors ensuring it is complete according to specifications.  Advises contractors on the proper set-up and installation of equipment being installed.
5. Monitors and operates sewage lift stations, control systems and related software, to manipulate wet well levels and pump flows. Uses trending charts to help determine causes and find solutions to failures.
6. Calibrates, operates, and maintains chlorine generating and injection equipment. Uses mathematical formulas to compute proper dosages for chlorine injections.
7. Plans, coordinates, constructs/installs small and large pumps, motors, valves, and appurtenances.
8. Performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs on water distribution and wastewater collection equipment.
9. Reviews drawings/plans and specifications received from Engineering Department and recommends changes or additions to projects.  Checks documents to ensure that all aspects are covered.
10. Purchases necessary equipment and related materials and supplies to complete tasks.  Maintains detailed maintenance records, using computer software such as Microsoft Excel or Word, and Munis Financial Software.
11. Responds to after-hours system emergencies.
12. Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Knowledge, Skills, Training, Experience & Licensing
Knowledge:

• Semi-complex computer controlled distribution and collection systems;
• Hydraulics;
• Understands job related Water Quality parameters;
• Applicable rules and regulations;
• Safe work practices and regulations;
• Valves and metering apparatus;
• Pumps and related systems;
• Automatic control valves and solenoids;
• Principles, methods and techniques utilized in system operations;
• Chlorine and chlorine safety;
• Works well independently and in a team environment with minimal supervision;
• Exercises good judgment and maintains effective working relationships.

Skills:

• Monitors water distribution and collection operations;
• Adjusts valves and flows;
• Monitors equipment operation;
• Uses precision measuring, hand and power tools;
• Reads and understands maps, blueprints, schematics, technical manuals, and rough sketches;
• Maintains and troubleshoots problems with pumps, motors and related systems;
• Uses computers and related software applications;
• Has good communication and interpersonal skills, interacts well with peers, supervisor, and the public.

Training and Experience:

• High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.); and,
• One year of related basic repair and maintenance experience; OR
• Two years’ experience in installing and repairing pumps, motors and related systems OR,
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

Licensing Requirements(position requirements at entry) (depending on area of assignment):

• Valid California Driver’s License;
• State of California Water Distribution Operator Grade D2 is required for Grade 18 – 19.
• State of California Water Distribution Operator Grade D3 is required for Grade 21.
• State of California Water Distribution Operator Grade D4 is required for Grade 23.
• Plant Maintenance Mechanical Technologist Grade II certificate from the CWEA is desirable;
• State of California Water Treatment Operator Grade T1 certificate is desirable.