Water O&M Technician-Potomac

Company: Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC)
Location: Potomac
Posted on: May 3, 2021

Job Description:

Functional TitleWater O&M Technician-PotomacRecruitment Category TypeStandardFunctional CategoryProductionGradeCL.03FLSA StatusNon-ExemptRequisition Number21-0066Number of Vacancies1Job LevelNon-ManagementJob CodeJob Description SummaryA Water Operational & Maintenance Technician performs routine and occasionally complex work in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plant equipment and facilities on a rotating shift assignment basis. Mandatory overtime may occasionally be required. May perform tasks and shift assignments under supervision of more senior Water Plant O&M Technicians during shift operations and/or on major tasks.Organization NamePotomac WFPReports toPotomac Deputy Chief Water Plant OperatorFull or Part TimeFull TimeIf Part Time how many hours per weekRegular or TemporaryRegularPosition End Date (if temporary)Work ScheduleRotating shifts are required to support a 247365 plant operation. Weekend, holiday and mandatory overtime will be required.Position LocationPotomacGeneral SummaryA Water O&M Technician performs routine and occasionally complex work in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plant equipment and facilities on a rotating shift assignment basis. Overtime may occasionally be required. May perform tasks and shift assignments under supervision of more senior Water O&M Technicians during shift operations and/or on major tasks.Essential FunctionsEntry Level & Level I: Performs periodic tests (and calculates daily averages) for chlorine, pH and turbidity; Adjusts water treatment chemical dosages as directed by more senior O&M Technicians and records actions; Draws samples of water for laboratory analysis; performs routine chemical analyses of water undergoing treatment in accordance with regulatory requirements; Unloads and changes chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks; Receives and monitors chemical deliveries and interacts with delivery driver for watertreatment chemicals, including polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime, phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide, and sodium bisulfite; Monitors raw, settled, filter effluent and treated water turbidity and filter backwash processes; Starts and stops large pumps; Makes minor repairs to pumps and purification equipment; Maintains communication with Control Center; Performs weekly and monthly preventive maintenance for process equipment, in accordance with established schedule including cleaning, lubrication, and oil/grease changes; Assists in identifying factors that could cause water treatment process upsets, particularly during abnormal conditions.Level IIIn addition to performing tasks and functions that may normally be assigned to lower level O&M Technicians, the following functions are unique to those at the O&M Technician II Level: Coordinates work of and trains less experienced personnel during shift operations or during the performance of major tasks; Closely monitors and controls water treatment processes and equipment throughSCADAsystem Human Machine Interface (HMI); Coordinates water treatment chemical deliveries to ensure offloading to appropriate storage tanks with adequate capacities including such chemicals as polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide and sodium bisulfite;Oversees the unloading and change out of chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; loads; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks while ensuing appropriate safety equipment is in use at all times; Troubleshoots abnormal conveyance system and treatment process operations and conditions; Performs preventive action to avoid process upsets caused by unusual circumstances, loss of power, and abnormal plant operations.Other FunctionsEntry & Level I: Conducts laboratory sampling, testing and analysis to ensure compliance with state and federal water quality standards; Maintains records, fills in reports; contributes to a daily log of plant operations; Cleans intake; Conducts general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials; Operates and maintains pumping stations with general understanding of pump and pump station configuration, lubrication, and equipment; Monitors disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorine system, and recognizes alarm conditions; Calibrates process control equipment and instrumentation such as lab equipment, pH meters, turbidity meters, chlorine analyzers, and DO meters; Operates chemical feed system for coagulants and other chemical application systems; Enters data into computer to update records and uses the computer to aid in monitoring and controlling plant processes; Performs related duties as required.Level II In the absence of the superintendent or the operator in charge, makes operational decisions based on directives from the superintendent, operator in charge or standard operating procedures; Regulates valves, observes flow gauges, and performs calculations; Maintains handwritten and computerized records, fills in reports, and keeps a daily log of plant operations; Performs extensive repairs to pumps and purification equipment and repairs pneumatic and hydraulic control systems; Operates and maintains process control instrumentation; Operates and troubleshoots process equipment for valve operation, pump start, backwash flow rates, and gravity filters; Monitors, calibrates and maintains chemical feed systems including disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorinators and chlorinator vacuum systems; UsesTEAMS/CMMSto perform administrative tasks such as closing out work orders, maintenance and routine work requests; Performs related duties as required.Work Environment And Physical Demands Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, work in confined spaces, work in elevated and descend underground; Ability to lift up to 50 pounds; Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and sounds to detect abnormal equipment conditions; Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at anytime of the day or night (contact lenses are not permitted on the job); Verified non-existent respiratory and/or back problems; Ability to effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures; Ability to climb an elevated storage tank. Potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise, radioactive hazards and all weather conditions.Errors in work cause considerable expense and inconvenience with potential for serious health safety impact. Regulatory violations may be punishable by federal prosecution.Required Knowledge, Skills, And AbilitiesEntry & Level I: Knowledge of Water Treatment process and procedures involving water quality issues, water characteristics, chemical handling, and operating conditions; Ability to understand the function and servicing of mechanical equipment, piping, valves and other related equipment used in the water treatment process; Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions; Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process; Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis; Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing as well as maintain legible written records; Skill in the use of tools and correcting minor operational problems in electrical and mechanical systems and equipment; Knowledge and understanding of drawings, schematics, specifications, and reference materials; Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and the ability to use enterprise computer programs.Level II Extensive knowledge of Water Treatment process and procedures involving chemical dosing, water characteristics, and UV operation; Knowledge of the function and servicing of mechanical equipment; Ability to gain knowledge ofWSSCWaters Distribution System and the effect of abnormal conditions on the treatment plant; Ability to understand and effectively give direction both verbally and written; Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process; Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis; Ability to generate reports and update station log books, diaries, and inspections. Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing; Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, and to hear audible alarms and abnormal equipment noises; Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes any time of day or night; Knowledge of processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology); Intermediate level proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; Ability to use enterprise computer programs.Minimum Education, Experience RequirementsEntry Level: High School diploma or equivalent.Level I: High School Diploma or equivalent; 1 year of servicing mechanical equipment.Level II: High School Diploma or equivalent; 4 years of experience operating and maintaining water treatment class 4 plants and pumping stations, or equivalent experience.Additional Requirements Must demonstrate reading and math skills by takingWSSCWater Proficiency Exam; Possession of a valid drivers license with no more than 4 points and the ability to obtain aWSSCdrivers permit;Entry and Level I: Within 30 days of employment, the employee must submit an application for a Temporary Water Treatment Class 4 License to the Maryland Board of Waterworks and Waste Systems Operators; Permanent operator certification must be obtained no later than 3 years of employment as a Water O&M Technician. Failure to do so may result in demotion or termination.Level II: Possession of a fully certified operator certificate issued by The Maryland Board of Waterworks and Waste Systems Operators (Maryland Water Board), or, within 30 days of employment, submit an application to the Maryland Water Board for a Temporary / Operator-in-Training Water Treatment Class 4 Certificate; Pass the appropriate certification exam within one year (if licensed in another state), and obtain full certification within 6 months of being time-eligible; Must maintain valid Maryland Water Treatment Class 4 License for duration of employment in the position; A valid Water Samplers License issued by the Maryland Department of the Environment must be attained and maintained within 3 months of employment; Employees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor whenWSSCWater declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work; As a 24-hour operation, employee must be able to work off shifts; Note: Employees have 2 years from date of hire or start of position to successfully complete all skills demonstrations and testing requirements to maintain that level. Failure to do so will result in the employee being moved to a position equal to their existing skills and testing level, or they may utilize the internal posting process to obtain another position or be released.Preferences College courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics or related subjects; Mechanical and/or plumbing experience.SalaryEntry Level: $19.76 per hour + shift differential + Potomac differential; Level I: $21.53 - $25.58 per hour + shift differential + Potomac differential; Level II: $27.90 - $33.14 per hour + shift differential + Potomac differentialEEO StatementANEQUALEMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITYEMPLOYERIt is the policy of the Commission to select new employees and to promote current employees without regard to race, sexual orientation, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, or handicap. The Commission does not discriminate against qualified individuals with a disability and will make reasonable accommodation for any disability that does not result in undue hardship for the Commission.Close DateOpen Until FilledYesSpecial Instructions to ApplicantsThis posting will be used to fill a full-time, permanent position in the Water O&M (Operations and Maintenance) Technician proficiency advancement series. This series consists of four levels of positions: Entry level, Level I, Level II, and LevelIII.Candidates may be hired at the Entry Level, Level I, or Level II, depending on their experience and qualifications. Following the interview process, acceptable candidates will undergo a formal evaluation of their knowledge, skills, and abilities to determine the appropriate Level to be included in an offer of employment.Once hired, employees non-competitively advance through the proficiency advancement series by obtaining additional knowledge, skills, abilities, and certifications, and will receive skill-based pay increases. Advancement to the top of LevelIIIis possible.Additional InformationThis is a career ladder position. Incumbents placement will be based on their skill level.Supplemental QuestionsRequired fields are indicated with an asterisk ().Do you have a High School diploma or equivalent?YesNoDo you have a valid driver's license with no more than 4 points and with no restrictions (except eyeglasses/contact lenses)?YesNoDo you have a MDE State Temporary or Full Certification for Water Treatment Class 4?YesNoDo you have a MDE water sampler certification?yesnoHave you taken college courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics or related subjects?YesNoEmployees must be able to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and mandatory overtime as part of a 24-hour 7-day operation. Will you be able to meet this requirement?YesNoEmployees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor when WSSC Water declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work. Are you able to meet this requirement?YesNoAre you currently certified to operate a forklift/lift truck?YesNoDo you have the ability to lift up to 50lbs?YesNoDo you possess mechanical aptitude, problem solving skills and electrical and mechanical experience?yesnoDo you have 1 year of experience in water and wastewater plant, water distribution system or wastewater collections system or electrical/mechanical operations at a plant?YesNoDo you have electrical/mechanical skills?YesNoWill you, now or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status?YesNoAre you an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces who was a bona fide resident of the state of Maryland when you entered the U.S. military?YesNoApplicant DocumentsRequired DocumentsResumeOptional DocumentsCover Letter/Letter of Application

Keywords: Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), Potomac , Water O&M Technician-Potomac, Other , Potomac, Maryland