Water Quality Technician

Hiring Range: $23.09 - $26.55 hourly

                         $48,032 - $55,237 annually
Open until filled

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Performs skilled technical and regulatory compliance work involving distribution system water quality monitoring, bacteriological sampling, field water quality analysis, flushing operations, customer complaint investigations, and regulatory sampling documentation; performs related work as required. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Collecting regulatory compliance samples throughout the distribution system, performing field water quality analysis, evaluating sampling site conditions, responding to customer water quality complaints, conducting flushing operations, maintaining regulatory documentation, and assisting with compliance monitoring programs. Work requires independent judgment in evaluating sampling conditions, identifying abnormal water quality situations, and performing duties in accordance with State and Federal drinking water regulations, departmental SOPs, and reporting procedures.

ESSENTIAL JOBS FUNCTIONS: These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Performs bacteriological compliance sampling in accordance with RTCR requirements, State regulations, and departmental SOPs 
• Evaluates sampling sites and field conditions for suitability and identifies unacceptable, abnormal, or questionable sampling conditions 
• Immediately reports abnormal water quality conditions, positive bacteriological results, or potential compliance concerns to supervision 
• Collects and analyzes water quality samples throughout the distribution system, including bacteriological, chlorine residual, disinfection by-product, fluoride, phosphate, and related compliance monitoring samples 
• Maintains accurate sampling records, flushing records, chain of custody documentation, regulatory reports, and compliance databases 
• Responds to customer water quality complaints; conducts field investigations and communicates professionally with customers regarding water quality concerns and City procedures 
• Performs hydrant and blowoff flushing activities utilizing proper safety procedures, traffic control measures, and established flushing protocols 
• Exercises independent judgment in evaluating field conditions while following established SOPs, regulatory requirements, and supervisor direction
• Performs related tasks as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water distribution systems, water quality monitoring, and field sampling procedures; knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations related to drinking water quality and regulatory compliance; ability to evaluate sampling sites and identify possible sources of contamination; ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports; ability to work from maps, plans, drawings, and diagrams; ability to exercise sound judgment while following established procedures and regulatory requirements; ability to communicate effectively and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, customers, and the general public.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: High School diploma or GED supplemented by course work in environmental sciences and some customer service experience.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the State of North Carolina, with safe driving history.  Possession of or ability to obtain North Carolina Grade C Distribution certification within one year of employment.  

Additional Information:

This position is classified as safety sensitive and is subject to random substance abuse testing at any time for the duration of employment and while occupying a safety sensitive position.

A NC Class C Drivers License must be obtained and maintained the entire duration of employment.

JOB RELATED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS:

This is medium work requiring the regular exertion of up to 25 pounds of force, frequent exertion of up to 50 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 70 pounds of force to move objects; work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, and grasping; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for depth perception, preparing and analyzing written or computer data, color perception, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arm’s length, operation of machines, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions noise, vibration, hazards, and oils.

Salary : $48,032 - $74,450