Water Operator

This non-exempt position is responsible for operating, monitoring, controlling, testing and troubleshooting a well-based water supply and distribution system, and a potable water treatment plant. Minimum of “D1” Water certification required within two testing cycles of hiring date.

Duties & Responsibilities

Uses a SCADA computer system and manual controls to operate and monitor: 1) The potable water treatment process and adjusts chemicals and equipment in accordance with regulatory permits; and 2) The well system water supply and distribution system to maintain adequate water levels in the storage tanks by determining daily needs based on data, experience and seasonal / weather changes.
Operate pumps, engines, generators, and valves to control processes at wells, booster stations and reservoirs. Operate the water wells, water treatment plant, booster stations and storage tanks
according to the Standard Operating Procedures. Inspects equipment and makes recommendations
to the Water Department Manager regarding necessary repairs, maintenance and calibration.
Collects water samples, performs multiple laboratory tests, maintains accurate laboratory records,
and notifies Lead Operator when parameters are outside of established norms.
Adjusts and maintains chemical feed systems; replace cylinders; switch chlorinators and check analyzers. Handle sodium hypochlorite during replacement, operations, delivery and storage.
Records data required for regulatory and operational reporting on the physical changes made to the treatment plant and the well system. Data recorded includes: Alarms, adjustments made, troubleshooting, equipment rotations, instrument readings and process control.
Inputs readings from wells, tanks, booster stations and process control tests plus chemical usages
into database programs and prepares for reports such as, water production, production trends,
chemical costs and usage, water flow, level.
Calculates chemical orders based on technical expertise and standard operating procedures.
Maintain adequate chemical and supply inventories.
Verbally reports emergency and major malfunctions to the Water Department Manager and
initiates proper action per procedures. Perform appropriate follow-up procedures.
Obtain monthly meter readings from interconnections · Flushes water lines as necessary to rid the lines of minerals.
Conducts inspections of both water and Irrigation lines to assess damage to system lines.
Attend technical and safety training meetings, courses and seminars as required.
Assists with public relations by representing the department in the community or responding to telephone inquiries and complaints from the general public.
Routinely performs physical cleanup and housekeeping of work areas, equipment, and buildings
using standard cleaning equipment and material, and chemical cleaning procedures.

Qualifications

Basic knowledge of Federal and State regulations and permitting requirements.
Basic knowledge of equipment and procedures used in the operation of water and wastewater
treatment plants.
Basic knowledge of chemistry, biology and mathematical and statistical calculations necessary to
conduct, analyze and interpret the results from standard laboratory tests.
Basic knowledge of electricity, hydraulics and pneumatics to inspect equipment and request repair
and maintenance.
Basic understanding of SCADA computer system functions.
Basic computer knowledge including, but not limited to Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
Basic knowledge of safety procedures and use of personal protective equipment and ability to apply safety principles to all job tasks. Ability to anticipate unsafe circumstances; act accordingly to
prevent accidents, and promptly report accidents and hazardous conditions.
Ability to accurately compile, analyze, and interpret facts to prepare reports, to troubleshoot, to make decisions, and to solve problems on process and equipment.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as Material Safety Data Sheets, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions; procedure manuals, blueprints, and technical documentation.
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing, organize activities in order to complete
tasks in accordance with priorities, address multiple demands and meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently with broad direction and limited supervision. Ability to work effectively
with supervisors and co-workers and deal tactfully with the public.
Basic knowledge of water main installation, meter installations, service line repairs and water main repairs. Knowledge of parts and materials required for repairs
Ability to operate basic hand and power tools in a safe and efficient manner
Construction experience a plus.
Must have a Valid California Driver’s License.
Must pass Drug screening and background screening.

Experience & Education

Experience is preferred but not required

Special Requirements

N/A

Environmental Conditions

Physical Conditions

Experience is preferred but not required

Indian preference policy: In accordance with the Indian Preference Act of 1934 (25 USC 472), preference for filling this vacancy will be given to qualified Indian candidates who present proof of eligibility for Indian Preference. Verification on BIA form 5-4432 or form Tribal ID card must be provided with the application. For the purpose of this policy, Indian/Native American is defined as an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

NOTICE OF DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE REQUIREMENTS: The la Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians is committed to maintaining a drug-free working environment and to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998, 45CFR, subpart F. The interested candidate must be able to pass a drug-screening test and maintain a drug-free and professional working environment.

Full-time

Job Description