Water Distribution Senior Operator

Job Description:

Water Distribution Senior Operator

Description

Description

The City of Livermore is currently accepting applications for the position of Water Distribution Senior Operator. This recruitment is open until filled. Apply immediately as recruitment may close at any time. For a copy of the job announcement, CLICK HERE .

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, organizes, assigns and reviews the work of water distribution operators engaged in the operation and maintenance of potable and recycled water distribution systems; performs a broad range of skilled duties associated with the operation, maintenance and repair of major potable and recycled water facilities, including those requiring specialized knowledge; provides administrative support to supervisor; and performs other duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Water Distribution Senior Operator is a multi-skilled position required to perform a variety of tasks including, but not limited to, precautionary disinfection and process calibration, maintenance, quality control, safety, and problem solving. This is the advanced journey and lead level in the Water Distribution Operator series that is distinguished from other classes in the series by the level of responsibility assumed, complexity of duties, special projects assigned, independence of action taken, system-wide operational analysis, and by the nature of the interactions with the public. Employees provide lead direction to operations personnel and perform the most difficult and responsible assignments within this series. Employees at this level are required to be fully proficient in all procedures related to assigned areas of responsibility. It is further distinguished from the Water Distribution Supervising Operator in that the Supervisor Operator is the first line supervisor classification with primary responsibility for the overall supervision of staff assigned to the section, including completion of employee performance evaluations.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

General supervision is provided by the Water Distribution Supervising Operator and the Water Distribution Operations Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

May provide training and project direction to Water Distribution Operator Trainees, I, II, III, and temporary employees assigned to the section.

Examples of Important and Essential Functions

Lead Functions

Plans, prioritizes, and reviews the work of staff assigned to a variety of potable water and recycled water distribution operations and maintenance duties; develops schedules and methods to accomplish assignments ensuring work is completed in a timely and efficient manner; ensures appropriate staffing level is on duty; calls in personnel as needed; assumes responsibility for covering a part of the work assignments of other personnel during short absences; adjusts work assignments of on-duty personnel as needed.

Maintenance Functions

Performs difficult and/or complex repair and maintenance work; performs construction and improvement projects; operates a variety of hand and power tools and equipment; maintains tools and equipment in safe and proper working condition; and maintains work areas in a clean and orderly condition.

Water Distribution Functions

Troubleshoots difficult and complex operations issues and resolves problems; performs comprehensive oversight of data and systems, and provides solutions; monitors work of consultants; monitors and finalizes inspections of work in the field; participates in the inspection of water meters and water service lines; identifies and determines the cause of abnormally high consumption levels; opens and closes valves and performs related adjustments to ensure proper distribution pressure levels within each pressure zone, as necessary; initiates and discontinues water distribution to residential and commercial establishments; performs and directs the collection and transport of water samples for lab analysis; conducts bacteriological testing and monitors chlorine levels; flushes distribution system to maintain good water quality; inspects and repairs pressure reducing valves to maintain safe pressure levels; performs inspections of storage tanks and pump station buildings; programs pump stations; conducts the most difficult troubleshooting, diagnosis, and problem solving; monitors water system for unauthorized and improper connections to prevent damage to the water distribution system and injury; performs cross-connection control surveys, tests and inspection on potable and recycled water systems; responds to waterline emergencies as needed; performs and directs the installation, maintenance, and repair of water meters, and related service lines; services, adjusts and repairs motors, pumps, fire hydrants, and other equipment; and operates a hand held radio.

Administrative Support Functions
Accurately maintains records and documentation; reviews and initiates actions needed to respond to or comply with memoranda and other instructions; receives service requests and complaints from service users and the public; investigates and takes actions needed to respond to service needs; prepares records of service calls and complaints and submits follow-up reports; prepares drafts and final copy of written procedures, instructions and other materials; responds to utility service alerts on behalf of the system; monitors supply inventories; places orders to replenish supplies; receives and receipts materials and supply deliveries; records and submits administrative documentation; identifies operating requirements; creates documentation needed for operations as necessary; reviews manuals, diagrams, blueprints, and other equipment and system documentation; responds to information requests and conducts potable water and recycled water system tours for regulatory inspectors, potential bidders on system projects, and City personnel; prepares and presents formal reports and recommendations as appropriate; participates in City-wide committees; participates in teams engaged with process and customer service improvements, cross-training, and team evaluations; assists with the orientation and training of water distribution operation personnel; and performs other assigned work consistent with the responsibilities of the classification and necessary for effective potable water and recycled water systems and City operations.

Job Related and Essential Qualifications

Demonstrated Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of technical and functional supervision and training; current and advanced principles, practices, and equipment applied to the operation and maintenance of water distribution systems including major components of pumping plants, reservoirs and rate control valves; principles, methods and practices of water distribution and energy management within a multiple, complex cascade system; related equipment servicing and repair; mechanical, electrical and hydraulic principles; safety rules, codes, and regulations including confined space procedures; Federal, State and local legal and regulatory requirements and related technical terminology used in potable water and recycled water distribution and regulatory activities; general intent and specific application of administrative operating policies and procedures common to water distribution organizations; uses and principles of computerized electronic equipment in the collection, storage and interpretation of operational data related to monitoring and control of raw water and treated water distribution facilities and equipment; routine operating report generation; principles and practices of servicing, repairing and calibrating water distribution system equipment; current technological developments in water distribution and water quality; and specific situations requiring use of protective gear and equipment.

Demonstrated Skills to:

Perform the most difficult and complex duties related to operation and maintenance of potable and recycled water distribution systems and related facilities; operate water distribution system equipment including automatic control devices and distribution system equipment using advanced SCADA systems, techniques and complex analyses of water distribution system requirements; analyze problem equipment and operational systems; implement and comply with safety rules; identify safety hazards; interpret work orders; collect potable water and recycled water samples and perform standard field sample analyses; observe, interpret, and record measurements indicated on gauges, meters and similar measuring devices; maintain safe and reliable water supply to customers; service, repair and calibrate equipment; actively participate in multi person operation by giving feedback and offering constructive recommendations for operational problems; perform operations and maintenance tasks without immediate or detailed supervision; interpret and understand the contents of technical manuals, drawings, specifications, blueprints, layouts and schematics; prepare summary or detailed reports involving narrative comment and statistical and financial data; instruct and train others in specific policies and procedures used in distribution system and equipment operations; perform basic mathematical calculations common to the work; operate water distribution system equipment, controls and safety devices; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; exercise diplomacy and tact in controversial situations; establish and maintain effective working relationships; and exemplify an enthusiastic, resourceful and effective service attitude with those contacted in the course of work.

Ability to:

Recognize unusual, inefficient, or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action; compile, evaluate and analyze operational data and information and take appropriate action; establish and maintain effective communication with co-workers at all levels of the organization; work effectively with others; and exhibit and instill in co-workers a high customer service priority.

Experience, Education, and Training Guidelines:

Any combination of experience, education, and training that would provide the best qualified candidate. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:

Experience: Three years of performing journey level operations and maintenance duties in potable water distribution. Lead direction experience is highly desirable.

Education: Equivalent to graduation from high school.

Training: Any recent training such as academic courses and certification programs which are relevant to this job classification.

Certification: Requires possession and maintenance of the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Water Distribution Operator Grade III Certificate at time of appointment. An (AWWA) Cross-Connection Control Specialist Certification and a SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Grade IV Certificate is required prior to the completion of the probationary period.

License: Possession and maintenance of a valid California Class A driver's license with appropriate endorsements.

Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) Requirement: Incumbents in this job classification may be called upon, at any time, to perform safety sensitive functions, and therefore, may be subject to the Federal Highway Administration D.O.T. regulations and the City's policy concerning drug and alcohol testing as a continuing condition of employment with the City of Livermore.

Other Requirements: Willingness and ability to work scheduled and emergency overtime; work outdoors in all weather conditions; work at night, in confined and awkward spaces, in heavy traffic, and in the presence of noxious odors, toxic chemicals, biological agents, and sewage; work in potentially hazardous areas; wear and use appropriate safety clothing and equipment, including self-contained breathing devices; and attend meetings, workshops, and seminars during work and non-work hours.

Special Requirements : Essential duties require the mental and physical ability to drive a variety of vehicles and operate equipment; detect odors and running water; identify mechanical noises; converse on the telephone, two-way radio, and in person, often over the noise of machinery; bend, stoop, climb, and stand for long periods of time; read fine print with no color deficiencies to detect color-coded wires and read results of water color tests; manipulate small parts and components; safely lift and maneuver equipment and supplies such as fire hydrants, water meters, grates, large PVC pipe, wire spools, meter boxes, jackhammers, and other equipment and supplies weighing up to 100 pounds; and safely wear self-contained breathing apparatus while entering and working in confined spaces.

Additional Information

The City of Livermore is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity.

CITY OF LIVERMORE
BENEFITS SUMMARY
Association of Livermore Employees

Please click here for a copy of the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Association of Livermore Employees. The information contained here is a summary of benefits. For a more detailed summary of benefits for all employee groups, click here . Any errors or omissions do not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. Updated 1/2025

MOUTERM
10/01/2021 - 09/30/2025

SCHEDULED INCREASES
10/11/2021 2.0% + $725.40/year
10/10/2022 3.5% + $754.56/year
10/09/2023 2.5% + $777.36/year
10/07/2024 2.0% + $796.80/year

CAFETERIA PLAN (MEDICAL, DENTAL & VISION)
$1,950/month towards medical, dental, and vision; unused balance paid in cash to employee.

BASIC LIFE INSURANCE & ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE (AD & D)
FT - $60,000 EE coverage or PT - $30,000 EE coverage, ER paid
$1,000 dependent coverage, ER paid

EE option to purchase $25,000 additional life insurance & supplemental life to $500,000 (not to exceed 5x annual earnings).

LONG TERM DISABILITY (LTD)
ER paid
60% of base monthly earnings to $5,000/month max. (180 day waiting period)

PERS
New City of Livermore EEs are enrolled in the 2% at 60 formula or 2% at 62 formula, depending on eligibility, as per AB 340.

Classic PERS Misc Member - 2% at 60

• Member Rate = 7% EE paid
• Employer Rate = 34.43% ER paid (includes unfunded liability; FY23/24)
• 36 consecutive months Final Comp
• Sick Leave Credit
• 4th Level 59 Survivor Ben.
• Military Service Credit

New PERS Misc Member - 2% at 62

• Member Rate = 7.5% EE paid
• Employer Rate = 34.43% ER paid (includes unfunded liability; FY23/24)
• 36 consecutive months Final Comp
• Sick Leave Credit
• 4th Level 59 Survivor Ben.
• Military Service Credit

MEDICARE (Hired after 3/31/86)EE paid 1.45%ER paid 1.45%

RETIREMENT HEALTH SAVINGS (RHS) ER contribution of 4% of base pay into RHS account.

VACATION ACCRUAL
Years of Service Accrual Per Year 1 80.6 2-5 120.12 6-10 135.98 11-15 160.94 16-19 180.18 20+ 192.4
Prorated for part-time EE.
Maximum accrual: 340 hours

HOLIDAYS & HOLIDAY-IN-LIEU PAY
Holidays: 12 observed holidays or in lieu day off or if work 2.5 times pay.
Holiday-In-Lieu Pay: EE's assigned receive 7.5% of base salary, paid per pay period

SICK LEAVE ACCRUAL
96.2 hours/year
Pro-rated for part-time EE

SICK LEAVE USAGE:

• FAMILY SICK LEAVE : For immediate Family Illness - ½ Annual Sick Leave Accrual.
• PARENTAL LEAVE : For non-birthing parent who becomes a parent due to adoption, foster care placement, or birth of a child - 48 hours
• BEREAVEMENT/ FUNERAL LEAVE (non-immediate family) : 3 regularly scheduled workdays of sick leave can be used for aunt or uncle.

FUNERAL LEAVE
3 regularly scheduled workdays max for immediate family.

PERSONAL LEAVE
Full-Time: 16 hours per year
Pro-rated for part-time EE.

PREGNANCY LEAVE & FMLA/CFRA
EE may use accrued leaves in compliance with City Rules & Regs
Benefit provided as per regulations: Federal Family and Medical Leave Act, California Family Rights Act, and California Pregnancy Disability Act

DEFERRED COMPENSATION 457(b)
ER contributes $75 per pay period, with required matching of $75 by EE

2025 Maximum :
Normal = $23,500
Age 50+ = $7,500
Catchup Limits = $46,000
Voluntary EE Participation

SECTION 125 PLAN
No ER contribution
2025 Maximum
Dependent Care*: Up to $5,000/year -- *See IRS Pub #503
Unreimbursed Medical: Up to $3,300/year

• Pre-tax Health Care Premiums
• FSA's for Dependent Care
• Unreimbursed Medical Expenses
• Other options offered by plan administrator

UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
$850 per year/ paid in equal amounts per pay period
For Public Safety Dispatchers, Senior Public Safety Dispatchers, Supervising Public Safety Dispatchers, Police Clerks, Senior Police Clerk, Supervising Police Clerk, Animal Control Officers, Police Identification Technician, Supervising Property and Evidence Specialist, Property and Evidence Specialist, Community Service Specialists, Crime & Intelligence Analysts, and Crime Prevention Specialist.

SAFETY SHOE ALLOWANCE
Paid annually in July: $200/year for Meter Readers, and employees in Engineering Technician, Neighborhood Preservation Officer, and Building Inspector series who perform field work, and Public Works employees that are required to wear safety shoes or boots.

PRESCRIPTION SAFETY GLASSES
Reimbursement of up to $150/year for purchase of safety prescription glasses for EEs working in locations where there is a risk of eye injuries.

SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL
EEs regularly assigned to city facilities operating 24/7 - $2.50/hour for all hours worked when assigned to a shift requiring EE work at least 4 hours between 4:00 p.m.- 6:00 a.m.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION
Public Works EEs: $12.00/day for EE who operates Class A vehicle, min of 50%+ operation/day.

STANDBY PAY
2 hours straight-time for standby on regularly scheduled work day
3 hours straight-time for standby on regularly scheduled days off and fixed City holidays

CALL BACK PAY
3 hours min @ OT rate for FLSA nonexempt. First 3 hours can't be taken as comp time but paid to EE.

WORK IN A HIGHER CLASS
If work min of 3 consecutive workdays, paid @ 5% differential or the minimum of the salary range of the higher classification.

COURT PAY/COURT CANCELLATION PAY
If in connection with EE's usual official duties, 3 hrs min @ OT, or 4 hrs min @ OT for those required to appear on normal day off or on graveyard shift.

SUPPORT SERVICES TRAINING OFFICER PAY
$90/pay period for full pay period while assigned.

BILINGUAL PAY
$60/pay period for both written & conversational. Must be certified by Department Head and approved by Admin Services Director, and used on the job.

$35/pay period for conversation level as certified by Department Head and approved by Admin Services Director.

TELEPHONE PAY
20 minutes and for each minute exceeding 20 minutes at OT rate.

CELL PHONE ALLOWANCE
Standard = $40/month (if authorized)
See Administrative Regulation 36 for details.

COMMERCIAL DRIVERS' LICENSE PAY
$35/pay period with valid CA Commercial Driver's License and valid DOT medical card.

OT COMP & COMP TIME OFF
OT for > 40 hrs/week or > 8 hrs/day in a reg scheduled day or hrs in excess of those normally scheduled & worked/day @ 1 ½ x reg. pay or Comp Time in lieu of OT for FLSA nonexempt. Accrued Comp Time in excess of 100 hours must be paid out.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
75% reimbursement for tuition & books
For undergraduate studies, $4,000 FY max; $16,000 lifetime max
For graduate studies, $5,000 FY max; $10,000 lifetime max

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS
100% reimbursement for required licenses and certifications

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Three (3) sessions per incident per family member. Unlimited telephonic consultations.

FLSA WORK PERIOD
168 hour pay period beginning Monday at 12:01 a.m., ending 7 days later on Sunday at 12:00 midnight. If an EE is not on this work week schedule, something must be in writing documenting EE's work week.

For WR Operator series : 168 hour period beginning Sunday at 12:00 midnight,
ending 7 days later on Saturday at 11:59 p.m.

PAY PERIODS
26 pay periods per year

Benefits listed are for regular full-time employees. Benefits are prorated for 30-hour and 20-hour employees.

ER = Employer
EE = Employee
FT = Full-Time
PT = Part-Time

Closing Date/Time: Continuous

Salary:

$7,986.25 - $9,650.52 Monthly