Water Operator I​/II

DEFINITION

Under immediate (Water Operator I) to general (Water Operator II) supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation, construction, maintenance, and repair of water distribution systems; installs and troubleshoots links to the District’s automated metering system; uses and operates a variety of manual and power tools and light to heavy power-driven equipment; and performs related duties as assigned.


SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate (Water Operator I) or general (Water Operator II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.


CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Water Operator I: This is the entry-level classification in the Water Operator series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine construction, maintenance, operation, and repair duties related to the City’s water distribution systems. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently.

Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Water Operator II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern.

Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Water Operator II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Water Operator series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Water Operator I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

This class is distinguished from the Senior Water Operator in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series, such as administering the District’s recycled water, cross-connection, and backflow programs,coordinating and maintaining records of maintenance and repair activities, and/or providing technical and functional direction over lower-level staff.
Positions in the Water Operator class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level; progression to the II-level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications;

and (iv) management approval for progression to the II-level.Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Positions at the Water Operator I-level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

• Performs semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation of the District’s potable and recycled water distribution system and the construction, installation, maintenance, disinfection, and repair of water mains, service lines, and water meters.
• Monitors, inspects, and maintains the District’s water distribution system; troubleshoots and resolves issues with the distribution system; disinfects water mains and tank reservoirs; prepares and maintains detailed logs, records, and reports on a variety of water distribution system operations, tests, system maintenance performed, operating conditions, and inspection results.
• Observes variations in operating conditions by interpreting Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) data, meter, gauge, and graph readings, and tests results to determine water pressure, chemical use, residuals,…