What are the responsibilities and job description for the Water Quality Inspector position at City of Orange?
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision of staff.
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
Responds to customer complaints and inquiries regarding water pressure, which may require home/business visits to ascertain problems; records and documents customer complaints, the course of action taken in responding to them, and how they were resolved.
Assists in keeping records pertaining to cross-connection program, sending and receiving routine correspondences regarding backflow prevention device testing and other program details.
Performs and interprets chemical, biochemical, biological, bacteriological, and physical analyses of samples related to the quality control and distribution of potable water following standard procedures and guidelines.
Collects samples at various sites throughout the water distribution system for testing to determine the effectiveness of each stage of the process.
Analyzes and interprets laboratory results, recognizing problems that may be occurring in the water distribution system.
Prepares samples for analysis by commercial laboratories; ensures that test results are reviewed and reported.
Maintains quality control and quality assurance and follows safe work procedures.
Maintains accurate records of work performed and analysis results.
Consults with operations and maintenance staff regarding analysis results.
Prepares and processes reports and records including bacteriological analysis data, physical analysis data, customer complaint memos, backflow letters and test forms, annual water quality report and all laboratory log books.
Prepares standard chemical solutions and reagents; safely disposes of outdated materials; cleans glassware and equipment; ensures that the work area is maintained in a clean and orderly condition.
Receives, reviews and processes various reports and records including bacteriological analysis data, physical analysis data, backflow test reports, water pressure complaints, water quality complaints, and the Metropolitan Water District (M.W.D.) System status report.
Installs, inspects, tests, calibrates, and repairs backflow prevention devices and water meters to ensure compliance with all laws and ordinances.
Flushes hydrants and meter services for water quality and sample collection purposes.
Maintains an inventory of laboratory supplies, chemicals, and equipment.
Enters and retrieves water quality data.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
Chemical, biological and physical characteristics of water.
Principles, practices, equipment and materials required for the chemical, biochemical, biological, bacteriological and physical analysis of samples of potable water.
Practices, methods, equipment, tools, and materials used in the assembly, repair, installation and testing of backflow and cross connection devices.
Sampling techniques and related statistical analysis techniques.
Basic principles of water distribution.
Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Technical report writing practices and procedures.
Principles and procedures of record keeping.
Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation.
Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors and City staff.
Ability to:
Perform chemical, biochemical, biological, bacteriological and physical analyses of water.
Analyze the results of such tests and make appropriate recommendations.
Operate a variety of equipment, tools, and testing devices used in the assembly, repair, installation, and testing of backflow and cross connection prevention devices.
Assemble, repair, install, and test backflow and cross connection prevention devices.
Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment required for the performance of necessary analyses.
Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
Prepare and maintain clear and concise reports and accurate records and files.
Utilize computer and related word processing, database and spreadsheet software and applications.
Organize own work, set priorities and meet critical time deadlines.
Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone and in writing.
Use tact, initiative, prudence and independent judgment within general policy, procedural and legal guidelines.
Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to an Associate's degree in chemistry, biology, natural sciences, or a related field and two (2) years of water utility experience in collecting water samples and performing bacteriological and physical water analyses, testing backflow prevention devices, conducting cross-connection inspections, and investigating and resolving customer service complaints.
Licenses:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Cross Connection Control Specialist Certificate issued by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) within one year from the time of appointment.
Possess and maintain a valid Grade I Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) within one year from the time of appointment.
Possess and maintain a valid Grade I Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) within one year from the time of appointment.
Environmental Elements:
Employees work primarily indoors but are occasionally exposed to loud noise levels, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives, and contractors in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
Disaster Service Worker:
All employees of the City of Orange are designated by both State law and City ordinance to be “Disaster Service Workers.” In the event of a declared emergency or any undeclared emergency or natural disaster that threatens the life, health and/or safety of the public, employees may be assigned to assist rescue and relief workers. Such assignments may be in locations, during hours and performing work significantly different from the employees’ normal work assignments and may continue through the recovery phase of the emergency.
Salary : $74,940 - $96,096