Quality Control Field Sampling Specialist

Performs skilled water quality analysis, hydraulic evaluations, and maintenance of the water distribution system. Work is performed under general supervision.

• Evaluates water quality in water distribution system.

• Collects distribution samples for laboratory testing in accordance with DOH approved sampling plan.

• Collects boil waters, main clearances, customer complaints, and wellfield samples.

• Revises sampling plan when necessary.

• Assists and troubleshoots customer complaints related to water quality or water pressure.

• Has the ability to communicate with customers and react appropriately to difficult situations.

• Utilizes situational awareness while in the field and on the road.

• Reports low chlorine residual in the system to water plant operations.

• Maintains records of flushing activities and reports problem or inoperable hydrants.

• Maintains/adjusts automatic flushing devices to comply with water quality requirements.

• Performs general distribution system maintenance tasks.

• Flushes distribution system to restore water quality.

Related tasks:

• Performs routine field tests for water quality in accordance with FDEP Field Sampling Standard Operating Procedures (SOP);

• Logs field collection data on appropriate chain of custody

• Utilizes GIS and water atlas to locate water lines, hydrants, valves, dead ends, etc.

• Understands NELAC protocol on water sampling procedures.

• Responds to customer water quality complaints, boil waters, and main clearances in a timely manner.

• Performs quarterly sampling of ground water and reuse monitoring wells.

• May be required to work overtime and/or be on call.

• Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.

Knowledge of:

• Specialized tools and equipment related to sampling and analyzing water quality in the distribution system.

• Use of computer system for communication, distribution system record keeping and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). 

• FDEP Field Sampling SOP Intermediate principles and procedures of record keeping.

• Workplace hazards and safe work practices.

• Piping, valves, and components of the City's distribution system.

Skilled in:

• Operation of hydrants, locating water meters and water valves, and evaluating water lines.

• Diagnosing water system changes and how they impact water quality.

• Locating water filtration systems, water softeners, and other devices that can impact water quality on the customer's side.

• Use of Geographical Information System (GIS) and reading of atlas maps.

• Use of Microsoft excel, and word.

Ability to:

• Understands and can perform unidirectional flushing principles.

• Interpret drawings, schematics, and atlases of utility infrastructure.

• Maintain records and prepare reports.

• Follow standard operating procedures.

• Communicate effectively, in oral and written form, with coworkers and other division staff and customers.

• High School Diploma or GED or (2) years of experience equivalent to graduation from high school

• Four (4) years of experience in distribution system maintenance

• Valid State of Florida Class "E" Driver's License

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Preference given for FDEP Field Sampling SOP experience.

• Possession of "C" Water Treatment Plant or Distribution System Operator license required within six months of hire.

Additional experience is accepted as a minimum requirement in lieu of the postsecondary degree on the following basis: additional four (4) years in lieu of the bachelor's degree, and additional two (2) years in lieu of an associate degree.

POST OFFER PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING REQUIREMENTS:

Final offer and employment are contingent upon successful completion of the following post-offer, pre-employment screening items:

• Criminal Background Check

• Employment Verification

• Motor Vehicles Report (MVR) Check

• Physical

• Drug and Alcohol Screen

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS AND CONDITIONS:

The environmental conditions and physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Occasionally moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces

• Occasionally remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods

• Constantly moving about within the immediate work area to accomplish tasks

• Constantly moving from one worksite to another

• Occasionally adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions

• Constantly communicating with others to exchange information

• Constantly repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

• Constantly operates a computer and other equipment using motions requiring manual dexterity or fine motor skills.

• Occasionally operating machinery and/or power tools.

• Occasionally operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment

• Constantly assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned

• Constantly demonstrating the ability to observe details accurately and identify variances

• Occasionally push/pull objects 50 pounds or less

• Occasionally working in a normal office environment with few physical discomforts

• Occasionally working in an area that is somewhat uncomfortable due to drafts, noise temperature variation or the like

• Occasionally working in an area that is very uncomfortable due to extreme temperature, noise levels, or other environmental conditions including exposure to extreme temperatures, electrical hazards, vapors, fumes, mist, smoke, toxic metals, poisons, and irritants

• Occasionally working in an outdoor area where exposure to animals, reptiles and/or insects may occur

• Occasionally working with equipment or performing procedures where carelessness would probably result in minor cuts, bruises or muscle pulls.

• Constantly demonstrating regular in office or onsite attendance without the eligibility for remote work assignment

ESSENTIAL EMPLOYEE DESIGNATION

When normal operations of City departments are suspended or interrupted due to a declaration that a state of emergency exists, employees in this classification will be deemed essential by the City. For the preparation and/or continuation of emergency operations or for special work detail, employees deemed necessary shall be required to work.