Water Distribution Chief Operator

Salary : $75,476.96 - $95,798.82 Annually
Location : Water/Streets Yard, Paso Robles
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 23/24-08
Department: Utilities
Opening Date: 11/17/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Description
This recruitment is open until filled and may close at any time. To be considered with the next pull of applicants, apply now!
Tentative Interview Date: Thursday, January 11, 2024
Wages listed reflect a 4% increase effective January 7, 2024.
The City of Paso Robles is pleased to announce the recruitment for Water Distribution Chief Operator. The Water Distribution Chief Operator plans, organizes, and executes a variety of skilled routine and emergency maintenance, repair, heavy construction, modification, regulatory compliance, and operation of City water infrastructure. The position also performs a variety of administrative and advanced technical field tasks involving the development, operation, maintenance, and problem resolution of departmental/City water and recycled water utility systems. As a lead operator, the incumbent will provide direction, oversight, technical expertise, mentorship, and work instruction to lower-level staff. If this exciting opportunity interests you, do not hesitate to apply today!
Typical Duties

• Oversees, leads, and participates in the maintenance, repair, and installation of water mains, pipes, valves, hydrants, and other utility infrastructure
• Responds to water related emergencies such as service leaks and main breaks; assesses the situation, determines the proper action, makes process control decisions, and performs the necessary repair work to resolve problems or requests appropriate equipment/workers needed to resolve problems
• Assists with the daily planning, assigning, monitoring, and operation of the water production and distribution operations, including storage, treatment, transmission, and distribution facilities
• Assists supervisory and management staff with employee performance evaluations, developing and facilitating performance objectives and career development, recognizing staff achievements, and holding staff accountable
• Determines the type of materials, supplies, machinery, and tools to be used for each project; may purchase materials and supplies from established suppliers with appropriate authorization
• Inspects, diagnoses, and troubleshoots equipment and operating problems; performs follow-up tests and inspections
• Promotes and enforces a strong safety culture within the division; conducts safety meetings, trains staff in safe work practices and potential hazards presented by their work environment, and ensures compliance with safety protocols, guidelines, and regulations
• Collaborates and maintains effective communication with other departments, utility companies, contractors, the public, and stakeholders on projects, repairs, and service requests
• Plans, directs, and participates in drafting and implementing maintenance programs
• Identifies and evaluates the need for training and development of assigned staff and facilitates skill development sessions to enhance their technical knowledge and job performance
• Verifies the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications
• Maintains accurate and thorough records of work completed, materials used, and time spent on various projects
• Stays apprised of local, state, and federal regulations related to water utility operations; ensures compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
• Operates specialized equipment such as sweepers, regulated vehicles, backhoes, loaders, hydro-vacuum excavators, excavators, and other related heavy construction equipment
• Maintains and operates vital monitoring software and works with outside technicians on system maintenance, upgrades, and operation
• Researches and recommends new operational methods, techniques, and equipment
• Participates in the development of the division budget; provides input and recommendations on facility operating budgets and capital improvement projects
• Provides consultation, expert advice, and technical reports to management

Employment Standards & Special Requirements
Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of effective supervision and leadership, including work planning, evaluation, and techniques in training staff in work and safety procedures
• Advanced maintenance and heavy construction principles, techniques, practices, tools, and materials for maintaining, repairing, and expanding Water Distribution systems and infrastructure
• Applicable federal, state, and local rules and regulations related to potable water treatment and supply, Water Distribution system operation and maintenance, and other related departmental activities
• Computer applications related to work such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, asset management, word processing, spreadsheet, and other communication programs
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff
• Mechanical concepts, principles, methods, and equipment used in the operation of water production, treatment, and distribution systems, and water supply facilities such as wells and reservoirs
• Occupational hazards and safety precautions and regulations related to water resources, distribution facilities, heavy construction, and the handling of hazardous chemicals
• Simple physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests related to water treatment and distribution system operations
• Mechanical and electrical characteristics of pumps, motors, meters, valves, control panels, telemetry systems, and other water control or measuring devices
• Safe driving rules and practices
• Basic engineering concepts and the ability to apply these concepts and construction practices to ensure the integrity of the Water Distribution system

Ability to:

• Safely and effectively perform highly skilled and complex heavy construction, modification, maintenance, and repair work on water supply, treatment, and distribution systems
• Effectively oversee, train, and develop the skills of staff to achieve department and division goals and objectives
• Demonstrate advanced technical expertise and set high-quality standards for staff and the department
• Perform mathematical calculations necessary for the operation of water and recycled water utility systems
• Interpret and implement department policies, procedures, and technical processes
• Skillfully and safely operate and maintain specialized tools and equipment
• Identify and implement opportunities for optimal, effective, and efficient system operations and improving service delivery
• Set up and operate a traffic area construction zone, including cones, barricades, and flagging
• Professionally and diplomatically respond to questions and comments from the public
• Locate underground utilities using record drawings and electronic locating equipment in accordance with Underground Service Alert (USA) regulations
• Independently apply good judgement and practical knowledge to assess, troubleshoot, and resolve unusual and irregular maintenance and operational issues
• Assist with developing and implementing new policies, procedures, goals, programs, regulations, and guidelines related to operations and compliance
• Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and written records of work performed
• Perform a variety of manual tasks for extended periods of time and in unfavorable weather conditions
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and sound independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines
• Work independently in the absence of supervision
• Develop and maintain effective teams and collaboration between staff
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work

Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be equivalent to graduation from high school and 5 years of underground construction and/or water utility experience, 2 years of which must be as D3 water operator at a D3 facility.
Licenses and Certifications:
Requires possession of the following:

• Valid California Class C driver license and a satisfactory driving record
• Grade 2 Water Treatment and Grade 3 Water Distribution Operator certifications issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board

Within 12-months of appointment must obtain:

• Valid Class A California motor vehicle license with appropriate endorsements

Within 24-months of appointment must obtain:

• Grade 4 Water Distribution Operator certification issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board

Other Requirements:
Must be available for regular standby assignments and work overtime as required and in accordance with existing memoranda of understanding. Outside of standby assignments, incumbents are required to report on site to emergencies within 30 minutes of notification. Response timeframes may be modified at the discretion of the department director based on department need.
Incumbents are exposed to a variety of weather conditions, including rain, heat, and cold, and are exposed to elements such as noise, vibration, confined workspaces, mechanical hazards, traffic, fumes, odors, dust, and potentially hazardous chemicals.
Physical Demands:
Must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform heavy physical work, climb and descend ladders, operate varied hand and power tools and heavy construction equipment, and operate a motor vehicle; the ability to regularly lift, carry, push, and pull tools, equipment, and supplies weighing up to 60 pounds unassisted, or over 60 pounds with assistance, for short or long distances; the ability to regularly sit, stand, walk on level, uneven, and slippery surfaces, reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch; the ability to reach, grasp, and make repetitive fine hand movements; vision to read printed materials, a computer screen, and to operate assigned equipment; hearing and speech to communicate with others and to exchange information accurately in person and over the telephone or radio; and the ability to wear a self-contained breathing apparatus and other safety equipment.
Selection Procedure & Application Process
To be considered for this exceptional career opportunity, please submit an employment application by Friday, December 15, 2023at10:00 am. This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.
Applications and cover letters received by the filing date will be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, and job-related qualifications. A limited number of persons whose applications clearly demonstrate they most closely meet the requirements may be invited to participate in the selection process, which may be any combination of written, oral, and/or performance exams. All statements made in the application materials are subject to verification. False statements will be cause for disqualification or discharge.
Appointment is subject to successfully passing a pre-employment physical, background, and criminal history check. Before starting work, applicants must present documentation of their identity, authorization to work in the United States and a DMV driving record. The City of Paso Robles participates in E-Verify (more information can be found at www.PRCity.com/HR). Following appointment, a 12-month probationary period may be required as the final phase of the appointment process.
The email address you provide on the City application will be the primary means of communication the City will use to contact you regarding your application and this recruitment. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (805) 227-7234, or by email at Jobs@PRCity.com.
All persons employed by the City of Paso Robles are designated as "disaster service workers" as defined in the California Government Code section 3100 and 3101.
The City of Paso Robles provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract.
Vacation: Accrual of 80 hours per year, increasing with years of service.
Sick Leave: Accrual of 96 hours per year.
Holidays: 14 paid days per year.
Health Insurance:

• Medical: Effective January 1, 2024, the City pays $774.51/month of employee premium, $1,494.98/month of premium for employee with one dependent, and $1,949.99/month of premium for employee with two or more dependents; employees who opt out of health coverage may be eligible for a payment of $300/month
• Dental: City pays full premium for employee and partial premium for family.
• Vision: City pays full premium for employee & family.

Retirement:

• CalPERS:
  • Classic Tier 1 members participate in a formula of 2.5% at 55, with the employee paying an 8% member contribution, plus a 2% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%
  • Classic Tier 2 members participate in a formula of 2% at 60, with the employee paying a 7% member contribution, plus a 3% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%