Distribution System Specialist

• Collects total coliform drinking water samples around the city to comply with the TCEQ Total Coliform Rule.
• Coordinates with laboratory management to collect water line construction samples.
• Collects various other samples around the city to meet other regulatory requirements.
• Calibrates and maintains field meter for pH, free chlorine residual, total chlorine residual, nitrite, monochloramine, and free ammonia analysis in the field.
• Performs analysis of field samples for the City’s Nitrification Action Plan.  
• Performs maintenance and conducts troubleshooting on field spectrophotometers.
• Maintains inventory of sampling and testing supplies and informs management when chemicals/supplies are needed.
• Maintains sample collection sites in the distribution system.
• Performs proficiency testing and demonstrations of capability for pH, free chlorine residual, and total chlorine residual.
• Tracks chemical lot numbers and equipment serial numbers for quality assurance. 
• Completes reports associated with job activities.
• Maintains records required by the TCEQ.  
• Follows all applicable standard operating procedures.
• Enters data into computer spreadsheets and performs calculations where necessary.
• Interacts with potentially irate citizens during sample collection.
• Flushes hydrants as required per State and Federal Regulations. Dead-ends and for scheduled preventative maintenance.
• Performs maintains and replaces water distribution stations as required or needed.
• Performs other related duties as required. These include clerical duties.
• Willing to work on weekends, rotating holidays, and on-call, as needed. 

Ability to sit, stand, and transport self from building to building.  Must be able to drive a vehicle to and from various work sites.   Employees will work in seasonal temperatures, bending, lifting, kneeling, twisting, and climbing to collect samples and make inspections.  Employees can work with potential mechanical, chemical, and electrical hazards while collecting and analyzing samples.  Employees may be exposed to loud noises, chemicals, toxic fumes, air and waterborne pathogens, and mechanical equipment during the collection and analysis of samples and mixing chemicals, with the ability to detect problems.  Must be able to lift in excess of 20 lbs. and climb stairs.

• High school diploma or equivalent. Associate’s degree in Science is preferred.
• Knowledge of and college credit hours in microbiology, biology, and chemistry preferred.
• Previous experience with collecting, testing, and analyzing samples is preferred.
• Class D water operator license in the State of Texas preferred or must be obtained within 6 months of employment. Class C water operator license in the State of Texas is preferred or must be obtained within 3 years of employment.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Ability to read, write, understand, and follow oral and written instructions in English.  
• Good knowledge of procedures, parts, and equipment used in testing.  
• General knowledge of computer programs and their use.  
• Ability to accurately enter data into the computer.  
• Must use proper aseptic technique for collection of samples.  
• Ability to perform simple arithmetic.  Possesses skills in the use of specialized tools and equipment used in testing.  
• Ability to deal effectively with co-workers and supervisors.  

Salary : $45,500