Utilities Water Quality Technician Trainee

Candidates can expect to employed under the auspices for the trainee program until obtaining the FDEP Water Distribution III License. Upon the trainee successfully obtaining their FDEP Water Distribution III License, the candidate will be promoted to the title of Water Quality Technician with a minimum starting salary of: $21.11 per hour.

Makes independent water quality assessments on how to correct distribution system water quality issues through flushing and initiates or performs actions to implement corrections to resolve customer complaints. Performs independent evaluations and makes recommendations for installations of Automatic Flushing Devices (AFD), and new blow-offs to maintain water quality. Performs problem-solving, assembly, part replacement, and inventory activities related to automatic flushing devices (AFDs). Reviews utility distribution system maps to determine water source and flow, proper valves, and adequate flushing locations to conduct specific flushing activities throughout the distribution system. Determines the frequency of flushing activity in an area based upon acquired knowledge of a water distribution area and what is needed to maintain compliant water quality parameters. Determines the operational status of valves, hydrants, and blow-offs, and has the knowledge and skills necessary to properly document the equipment and the repairs needed so that work orders can be generated for follow up repairs. Operates water distribution system infrastructure including valves, hydrants, and blow-offs to utilize various flushing techniques to restore and maintain water quality. Operates programmable equipment to control and adjust automatic flushing devices to ensure water quality compliance. Maintains and operates monitoring equipment and assures applicable quality control/quality assurance procedures are followed. Implements water distribution flushing plan and procedures using automated technologies for mapping and other applications. Prepares written or electronic reports covering customer complaints and generates service maps of the water distribution system, calculations, maintenance requirements, and water quality characteristics. Basic water monitoring procedures while utilizing flushing techniques and operating valves, blow-offs, and fire hydrants in connection with distribution system maintenance and other flushing processes. Monitors, schedules, tracks, and ensures completion of planned or scheduled preventative/corrective maintenance flushing, projects, and tasks. Collects and maintains technical water quality data and evaluates historical trends. Generates field data records containing the flushing locations, infrastructure utilized, flow, and water loss. Maintains inventory of parts and tools required for repairs. Responds to customer complaints and offers answers to routine issues. 

• Knowledge of conventional, unidirectional, and alternative pipe cleaning and flushing methods.
• Knowledge of drinking water quality characteristics including odor, color, clarity, and disinfectant levels.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and recognized safety operating practices for field monitoring activities and safe workplace.
• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of utilities lines, pumps, electrical machinery, controls, and water delivery systems.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of water distribution system operations.
• Knowledge of water distribution system hydraulics.
• Ability to apply computer applications to communicate with others, coordinate, track, and document activities as well as prepare customer complaint reports.
• Ability to complete written or electronic field data records.
• Ability to formulate and present ideas and findings clearly and concisely in written, oral, or graphic form.
• Ability to interact tactfully and courteously with the public and other agencies.
• Ability to operate water distribution infrastructure such as valves, fire hydrants, and blow-offs along with the ability to evaluate maintenance requirements.
• Ability to perform flow and water discharge mathematical calculations.
• Ability to perform water quality monitoring utilizing field test equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plats, maps, aerial photos, and diagrams.

PHYSICAL SKILLS:  Ability to lift and/or move up to 80 pounds and push or pull heavy objects. May use a handling device (dolly, cart, etc.) or work with another team member to lift and/or move excessively heavy objects.  Ability to frequently bend, climbs, stoop, squat, and walk. Ability to communicate effectively using verbal, written, and visual communication. Ability to work outside, occasionally under adverse conditions. Ability to perform strenuous physical labor for extended periods of time. Must pass a pulmonary function test and fit test within 60 days of hire. Position may require to be clean shaven in order to meet safety requirements. 

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:  Graduation from high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma. Six (6) months of direct experience  in water or wastewater field maintenance.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS OR REGISTRATIONS:  Must possess a valid Florida driver's license.  Must be able to obtain FDEP Class (3) Water Distribution License within eighteen (18) months from date of employment to be upgraded to Water Quality Technician (N33). 

ADA STATEMENT: A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE:  Pasco County is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law. 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens. On call as needed.

VETERAN'S PREFERENCE:  Under Section 295.07 F.S. chapter SSA.7 Pasco County BCC provides to Veterans, that preference in appointment will be given to preference-eligible applicants.

Salary : $21 - $29