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Sweetwater Authority

Water Treatment Plant Operator I/II/III

Sweetwater Authority, Chula Vista, California, United States, 91911

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Overview

Perform skilled work, on a rotating shift, in the operation of Sweetwater Authority's water treatment facilities and associated groundwater production facilities (as appropriate) to meet water quality and supply standards in an environmentally and economically responsible and safe manner. Responsibilities

Monitor plant SCADA system and make plant operational changes through the system: review and understand plant performance trends; make flow adjustments to meet daily demands; interpret meter and gauge readings and test results to determine processing requirements; monitor gauges, meters, and control panels; observe variations in operating conditions; maintain or adjust system flow and pressure requirements; control flows to meet consumer demands, including fire flow; calculate and adjust chemical flow rates and other operational parameters. Operate water treatment facilities (surface and groundwater) including urban runoff diversion system to control flow and processing of water in accordance with all appropriate state and federal regulations. Perform routine maintenance work on the filter plant facility: perform filter backwashes; oil, grease, clean, paint, and calibrate water treatment equipment; empty and change chlorine tanks; and perform other related activities. Perform laboratory tests, including turbidity, chlorine residual, jar testing, zeta potential, and pH testing; collect samples describing physical, chemical, and biological attributes of untreated and finished water systems. Inspect plant equipment for proper performance; prepare related work orders to resolve performance problems. Provide customer service to consumers; enter information related to customer accounts into applicable databases. Respond to emergency work requirements on a 24-hour basis. Operate pumps, valves, gates, engines, electric motors and other related flow, pressure control and storage facilities to control and adjust flow and treatment processes; read meters to determine and document chemical levels and water usage; determine and control proper chemical dosage rates for wellhead disinfection and distribution residual maintenance; maintain shift logs and record meter and gauge readings. Receive chemicals and ensure compliance with required security and safety procedures. Participate in assigned treatment plant rounds: inspect, maintain, monitor, troubleshoot, performance testing, and document plant processes, including the urban runoff diversion system, in accordance with all appropriate state and federal regulations. Assist System Operators to maintain and adjust system flow and pressure requirements and control flows to meet consumer demands including fire flow; assist Laboratory personnel in the collection of samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analyses; assist Water Treatment Plant Operators in all phases of water supply treatment and distribution. Assist with investigation of water quality problems in the distribution system; perform or assist others in related endeavors as assigned. Monitor gauges, meters and control panels; observe variation in operating conditions; interpret meter and gauge readings and test results to determine processing requirements. Receive and log emergency calls after hours, on weekends, and holidays; serve as an Entry Team member on the Authority's Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) team and ensure chemical and hazardous material spills are handled in accordance with State and Federal regulations. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, customers, vendors, Board members, and the public. Perform other duties of a similar nature or level. Typical Qualifications

Knowledge of:

Modern office procedures and practices, equipment, and clerical techniques. Computer programs and software, such as Microsoft Office. Principles and practices of proper water quality sampling. Principles and practices necessary in the operation of a water treatment facility including surface water, groundwater and reverse osmosis treatment plant equipment. Basic water quality regulations; water treatment plant operating policies and procedures; basic occupational health and safety procedures; mathematical and mechanical principles; data interpretation methods; basic hazardous materials and chemical safety requirements; proper English usage. Ability to

Follow lab procedures; operate a computer and related software applications; use tools necessary in making general repairs and adjustments to motors, pumps, and other equipment; perform mathematical calculations. Perform duties as a Hazardous Materials Technician; understand sampling and chemical testing requirements for unfinished and finished water supplies; serve as a hazardous material responder to ensure compliance with regulations. Troubleshoot motors, pumps, and other equipment; understand and carry out oral and written instructions and prepare simple written reports; collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests. Pass and certify as a Hazardous Materials Technician (24 hours); understand emergency response policies and procedures; handle water quality complaints and other customer inquiries with courtesy and efficiency. Work effectively under pressure; work on rotating shifts on a 24-hour/7-day per week basis; work around various animals and insects; keyboard proficiently; communicate clearly and concisely in writing and verbally; use interpersonal skills effectively to interact with coworkers, supervisors, the public, etc. Education/Training/Experience

Required: Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical path: completion of the twelfth grade; supplemented by state mandated training in water treatment plant operations, and some experience in operation and repair of motors, pumps, and related hydraulic equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform essential duties. Licenses/Certifications – Required Conditions of Employment

Possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver License. Maintain an acceptable driving record and proof of insurability. Possess a Water Treatment Plant Operator T3 certification (California DDW). Possess a Water Distribution Operator D2 certification (California DDW). Obtain a Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification within six (6) months of hire date. Physical Requirements

Hear normal conversation in person and on the telephone; mobility of arms and dexterity to manipulate objects; good visual ability (may be corrected). Speak clearly; sit/stand for prolonged periods; operate office equipment and standard vehicles; lift up to 50 pounds; keyboard for extended periods. Wear PPE including respirators and SCBA; climb ladders and work on water storage tanks; work outside in varying weather; exposure to chemicals and electrical equipment. Working Hours

Rotating shifts or as assigned by the supervisor. Other Conditions

Uniform provided; maintain a professional appearance; facial hair rules per Respiratory Protection Program.

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