What are the responsibilities and job description for the Plumber/Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) position at Backflow Prevention Specialists, Inc?
Position Summary
The Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) is a critical member of our field team, responsible for accurately and thoroughly testing backflow prevention assemblies to protect public water systems throughout our service region. But this role is about more than technical testing — it is about representing Backflow Prevention Specialists with professionalism and integrity on every job. Our customers trust us with access to their properties, their water systems, and their compliance obligations. We take that trust seriously, and we expect every member of our team to do the same.
This is a field-based position covering daily travel across a regional service area from Monterey to Sacramento. We welcome both experienced BPAT testers and motivated candidates ready to earn their certification. What matters most to us is character: honesty, a strong work ethic, genuine care for the customer, and a commitment to doing the job right.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform approved backflow prevention assembly tests using calibrated equipment and established procedures
- Represent Backflow Prevention Specialists professionally at every customer interaction — communicate clearly, arrive prepared, and leave a positive impression
- Verify equipment availability before field visits, including gauges, hoses, fittings, hand tools, forms, and safety equipment
- Notify customers and site personnel before testing, including communication related to water shutoff, alarms, and test conditions
- Identify and document assembly details such as location, manufacturer, model, serial number, size, type, and condition
- Verify compliance of assemblies with applicable installation and industry standards (e.g., ASSE, UPC, USC 10th Ed.)
- Diagnose and troubleshoot malfunctioning shutoff valves, check valves, relief valves, air inlet valves, and related components
- Communicate findings to customers honestly and clearly, including any compliance issues or follow-up requirements
- Complete and submit accurate inspection, testing, and compliance records to customers, water purveyors, and administrative authorities
- Coordinate with water agencies, site contacts, and customers regarding deadlines, notices, and noncompliance
- Maintain records, certifications, calibration logs, and business documentation
- Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment in the field
- Participate in ongoing training and maintain required certifications
Who We’re Looking For
Skills can be taught. Character cannot. Above all, we are looking for someone who embodies the values that have defined our company:
- Honest — you tell customers the truth, report results accurately, and hold yourself accountable
- Hardworking — you show up on time, prepared, and ready to give your best every day
- Competent — you take your work seriously, pursue mastery of your trade, and never cut corners
- Customer-focused — you understand that our long-term success depends on the trust and loyalty of the customers we serve, and you treat every interaction as an opportunity to reinforce that trust
- Professional — you represent our company with pride, communicate respectfully, and leave every job site better than you found it
Minimum Qualifications
- Current BPAT certification, OR motivated to obtain and maintain certification with company support (paid training provided)
- Working knowledge of, or ability to learn, approved backflow prevention assembly test procedures and cross-connection control principles
- Basic understanding of plumbing systems, device components, and assembly applications
- Ability to read, write, and accurately record information in English
- Basic computer and electronic communication skills for reporting, scheduling, and recordkeeping
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record — comfortable with daily regional travel (Monterey to Sacramento area)
- Ability to lift and carry tools and equipment weighing at least 25 pounds
- Ability to safely access field locations, including climbing ladders, bending, stooping, and working in confined or tight spaces
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience performing field testing of backflow prevention assemblies
- Experience diagnosing and troubleshooting assembly malfunctions and gauge-related issues
- Familiarity with local and state cross-connection control regulations, plumbing codes, and health requirements
- Experience working with water purveyors, administrative authorities, health agencies, or related organizations
- Familiarity with digital reporting systems, mobile devices, and electronic test result submission
- Demonstrated history of building positive, long-term relationships with customers and agency contacts
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Successful candidates will demonstrate knowledge of backflow prevention devices, testing procedures, hydraulics, hazard classification, cross-connection control programs, applicable plumbing codes, and safety regulations. Key skills include troubleshooting, critical thinking, customer service, recordkeeping, time management, and written and verbal communication. Equally important is the ability to explain technical findings clearly and honestly to customers, build rapport, recognize unsafe conditions, and adapt professionally to varying field environments and customer situations.
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
This position is primarily field-based and involves daily travel across our regional service area. Work may include exposure to heat, cold, noise, water, uneven terrain, traffic, and confined or elevated work areas. Employees may be required to climb ladders, bend, stoop, grip, stand for extended periods, lift equipment, and work in tight or difficult-to-access spaces. Strict adherence to safety procedures and use of appropriate protective equipment are essential.
Salary : $52,000 - $79,040