Lead Operator- Water Production

The City of Pearland, TX is seeking to hire a full-time Lead Operator- Water Production to lead and improve aspects of the day-to-day operations of our Utilities department. The Lead Operator in Water Productionearns a competitive salary of $25.01 to $27.07/hourlybased on qualifications.

Additionally, the city pays all premiums for our employees' dental, long-term disability protection, and life insurance, plus the majority portion of the medical premium for employees and their dependents. We also offer a retirement plan through the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with a 2:1 employer match, life insurance, disability, access to the city's recreation fitness center, employee assistance program, educational assistance, 11 paid holidays and 2 designated paid holidays, paid vacation, sick leave, and an active wellness program focusing on physical, mental, and financial health.

ABOUT THE CITY OF PEARLAND

The City of Pearland has received a Top Workplaces of 2023 USA award from Energage, a leading research firm that specializes in employee engagement and workplace culture each year across the United States.

Pearland is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas due to affordable housing, outstanding schools, safe neighborhoods, and superb quality of life. Ranked among the top ten safest cities in Texas, Pearland residents know their families are safe and secure in the community and surrounding areas. Our close proximity to Houston, just a short 20-minute drive to downtown, allows residents to experience all the city has to offer, including professional sports, world-class cultural amenities, and recreation.

Employees of the City of Pearland use multi-directional communication and cross-functional teams to promote a greater understanding of the organization by employees at all levels. We have created a culture of continuous learning that encourages and supports employee development and growth. Our work environment is one where innovation is not only supported but encouraged.

A DAY IN THE LIFE AS A LEAD OPERATOR IN WATER PRODUCTION

Under general supervision of higher tiered Operators and the Water Production Supervisor (WPS). Lead Operator is the advanced-level position within the Water Production Operator Series. In this role, individuals are tasked with executing the series' most intricate assignments and assuming the role of a crew leader in the field. The job requires a high level of autonomy, as work is conducted with minimal on-site supervision, demanding significant discretion and independent judgment. Operational and maintenance objectives are broadly outlined, necessitating self-initiated work planning, sequencing, and coordination of material and tool resources. Completed work is typically reviewed for adherence to policy, appropriateness, and soundness. The Water Operator III exercises technical and functional oversight over assigned staff, with a specific focus on on-the-job training and development of Water Production Operator I/II personnel. Advancement to the next operator level for Operator I or II is achievable through training, experience, and sustained satisfactory job performance. Furthermore, a Water Operator III has the potential to progress to Treatment Supervisor through training, experience, and continued demonstration of satisfactory job performance.

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties listed below are intended only as examples of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment expected of the position. Lead Operator: Under supervision, leads, supervises, and actively participates in a crew's work, focusing on both semi-skilled and skilled tasks related to the inspection, operation, maintenance, and repair of water pumping, water treatment, chemical control, and monitoring equipment. Operates the Division's Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, ensuring a reliable supply of safe drinking water to City of Pearland customers. Conducts or facilitates repairs on booster pumps, wells, reservoirs, automated valves, and associated equipment.

• Extensively controls SCADA systems without automation.
• Manages inventory and receipt of bulk chemical supplies.
• Calculates flow changes to maintain optimal storage levels in on-site and off-site GSTs and ESTs.
• Computes production and assists in overseeing Water Production operations.
• Provides operational, maintenance, and safety training to subordinate or junior personnel.
• Maintains current knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Reviews, revises, and develops Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Demonstrates expertise in all aspects of Water Production and provides training in various areas.
• Conducts a range of semi-skilled and skilled duties related to equipment inspection, operation, maintenance, and repair.
• Participates in monthly safety meetings.
• Administers chlorine dosages, inspects and repairs chlorine pumps and generating systems, addresses chlorine leaks, and transports chlorine to different sites.
• Conducts well and booster pump efficiency testing and maintains efficiency records.
• Troubleshoots, performs routine maintenance, and conducts repairs on system components, including fluid changes, lubrication, and adjustments to electrical and hydraulic pumping equipment.
• Maintains detailed records of equipment, tools, and machinery lubrication, calibration, and maintenance.
• Capable of doing all responsibilities and duties of an Operator I and II
• Performs additional assigned duties as required.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent supplemented by specialized courses/training experience in the water industry or related field.
• Lead Operator: Five (5) plus years of working experience in the treatment of potable water.

Special Licenses and Certifications

• The minimum license requirement for this position is a valid Class BWater Operator license issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Class A Water Operator License preferred.