Water System Operator

Position Description

An online application including response to the supplemental questionnaire must be fully completed for consideration. Please DO NOT attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of candidate's qualifications.

Seattle Public Utilities is seeking a Water System Operator in the Operations and Maintenance Division. The Control Center is responsible for the real time monitoring and operation of the major components of the water system in order to provide potable water that meets all regulatory, contractual, and customer service level requirements to SPU’s direct and wholesale customers. Water System Operators monitor the performance and status of the water system and make and/or request control adjustments as needed. Operators are also responsible for monitoring and limited operation of drainage and wastewater infrastructure.

About Seattle Public Utilities (SPU): Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,500 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), check out the:

• SPU Website
• SPU Workplace Expectations (Download PDF reader) (Download PDF reader)
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

Why join us?

We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free Orca Pass
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Job Responsibilities

• Monitor and control the Seattle regional water system using a PC-based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure uninterrupted delivery of water that meets all regulatory, contractual, and customer service level requirements.
• Control system operations during de-watering, filling, repairs and maintenance of pipelines, reservoirs, tanks, standpipes, pumps, and valve stations.
• Monitor dam failure warning system and perform system testing as required.
• Monitor and operate SCADA system for drainage and wastewater system infrastructure, including lift stations, sluice gates, and new CSO structures. This is an expanding area and may include other types of facilities in the near future.
• Respond to and investigate alarms, direct and coordinate crew response when emergency repairs are needed. Troubleshoot hydraulic problems and advise field crews in repairs of facilities.
• Maintain detailed operation logs, data collection and reporting systems. Perform hydrological and meteorological monitoring, data collection and analysis.
• Grant clearances for shutdowns during scheduled operations and emergency repairs. Coordinate emergency response with other sections and external agencies, including customers, regulatory and resource agencies.
• Read, interpret, and convey information from multiple sources including printed maps, construction drawings, project specifications, O&M manuals, as well as digital versions of similar information.
• Coordinate river diversion intake operations, hydroelectric plant operations, and dam gate operations to meet specific river flow requirements.

Qualifications

Education/Experience:

• One year of waterworks experience in a water utility, or one year of college level course work towards an associate degree in Waterworks, Water Management, or equivalent water resources degree (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required for the work of this class.)

License, Certification, and Other Requirements

• Certification by the State of Washington as a Water Distribution Manager Class I and fulfillment of continuing education requirements.
• Current State of Washington Driver's License or evidence of equivalent mobility.

The successful candidate should possess some or most of the following:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, gather and analyze data quickly and accurately, and make decisions with minimal guidance from supervisors.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently under routine and emergency situations while remaining calm and focused.
• Clear, effective oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of field instrumentation, SCADA systems, water treatment practices, water quality and distribution regulations.
• Knowledge of wastewater and stormwater discharge regulations.
• Ability to read, interpret and understand water system maps, construction drawings, and project schedules.
• Direct field experience operating and/or maintaining water infrastructure such as control valves, pumps, potable storage facilities, water treatment equipment etc.
• Direct field experience operating and/or maintaining drainage and wastewater infrastructure such as lift stations, control valves, CSO structures etc.
• Strong computer skills using a variety of software packages, including GIS.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

• Must be able and willing to work rotating shifts that may include nights, evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
• Must be able to lift objects weighing in excess of 50 lbs.
• May occasionally be required to work outdoors and/or in hazardous environments such as confined spaces, traffic, heights, and electrical/mechanical/chemical equipment.

Additional Information

Application Requirements:

• An online application must be fully completed for consideration. Please DO NOT attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of candidates qualifications.
• If you are selected to advance in this hiring process, you may be asked to obtain a Full Wahington Driver Abstract from the Department of Licensing. Please do not provide until requested.
• As a part of this hiring process, the most competitive candidates will be invited to take a written test, and interview.
• This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest record in compliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SME 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

The full salary range for this position is $50.31 - $58.54 per hour

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

If you have any questions, please contact Uma Suseelan at Uma.Suseelan@seattle.gov

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.