Wastewater Controls Technician

BASIC PURPOSE

Under general supervision, the Controls Technician performs work involving the overall operation and maintenance of the wastewater lift station pumping system. This work includes, but is not limited to, operating, troubleshooting, installing, repairing, and calibrating all types of equipment used in these utility systems; providing support for the computerized SCADA and telemetry system and programmable logic controllers; assisting with crew rotational work assignments and occasionally leading on various projects; and occasionally assisting, training or providing direction to other technicians or apprentices.

A first review of applications will occur on April 2nd, and weekly thereafter. This recruitment will remain open until filled, it is to your advantage to apply early.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

These duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Operates, installs, repairs, troubleshoots and calibrates all types of equipment used in the wastewater utility systems in a safe and high quality manner which includes, but is not limited to, electric motors, contactors, chemical pumps, electrical motor control panels, circuit breaker panels, transformers, transmitters, transducers, solenoids, filters, meters, analyzers, valves, plumbing, switches, relays, fuses, HVAC, and lighting.

• Operates City wastewater lift stations, monitors pump controller operation, and overall pump and motor performance. Calibrates ultrasonic liquid level controls.

• Operates telemetry SCADA system.

• Provides support for the computerized SCADA telemetry system and programmable logic controllers that are used for the automated operation of the water and wastewater systems.

• Troubleshoot and resolve routine system problems.

• Performs preventive maintenance on electrical motors, electrical control panels, pump controllers, motor control centers, circuit breaker panels, motor starters, telemetry system programmable logic controllers, telemetry radio system, and PRV valves.

• Performs all maintenance and operational tasks associated with wastewater facilities including small scale construction tasks on a regular basis. Assures maintenance and repair work is performed to trade standards and in compliance with current construction, safety, and environmental regulations.

• Performs maintenance and repairs on wastewater facilities such as building repairs, HVAC maintenance and repair, lights, locks, etc.

• Assists with planning and organization of the work for wastewater crew and on a rotating basis may be assigned to provide lead or direction on projects.

• Review, analyze and recommend potential improvements in operating procedures for wastewater systems.

• Adheres to all safety rules and codes for operations, which includes logging and monitoring confined space entries, performing lockout/tagout procedures and monitoring for unsafe site conditions.

• May be assigned to work individually or as a member of a crew. May oversee and/or provide on-site direction, training or oversight to others.

• May be required to perform standby duties on a rotational basis.

• May be required to cross train in water to become familiar with water controls systems. Cross training in water will be given and encouraged as time allows.

• May need to work on water systems when staffing is shorthanded.

QUALIFICATIONS

A High School Diploma or G.E.D. AND three (3) years of experience in operating and maintaining a water or wastewater system with direct experience working on electrical motors, electrical control panels, pumps, valves, sensors, SCADA telemetry system, and programmable logic controllers used in a wastewater utility.

• May have a combination of experience, education, and training that would substitute for the above requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certification as a Wastewater Collection (WWC) Operator Level 1 and Cross Connection Specialist.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OR LICENSE(S):

• Must pass a thorough background investigation and a pre-employment physical, including drug testing, to determine the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

• Must maintain a level of physical and mental fitness necessary to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation

• Must be attentive to job safety considerations and follows all required safety policies, procedures and techniques.

• Must possess a valid Washington State driver license at time of hire, and must have a driving record acceptable to the City and the City's insurance carrier

• Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be complete as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.

• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a commercial driver license endorsement Class A, with air brake and tank endorsement, within twelve (12) months of hire.

• Must possess or have the ability to obtain flagging certification and industrial first aid/CPR certification within 12 months of hire.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Electric motors, pumps, valves, pump control systems, computers and programmable logic controllers.

• Wiring diagrams and electrical principals, codes and safety requirements.

• Instrumentation, telemetry, process control theories and applications in water/wastewater utility systems.

• The dynamics of each system and how customer demand/load affects the efficient running of the operation.

Skill in:

• Use and practical application of electronic and electrical testing devices.

• Reading and understanding wiring diagrams.

• Performing a variety of electrical and mechanical work to control equipment and sophisticated telemetry systems.

• Demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

• Training other employees in all aspects of system operation and maintenance.

Ability to:

• Identify problems, make appropriate and quick decisions, and exercise considerable initiative and judgment in making needed repairs and/or requesting assistance.

• Read and understand O&M manuals, blueprints, ladder logic, electrical schematics and process control diagrams.

• Perceive when non-routine activities are required and offers to help without needing to be asked.

• Modify workload to assist with an emergent problem, assignment, or project whenever feasible.

• Take the initiative to complete work in a safe, orderly, and a high quality manner.

• Proficiently perform and train others in the maintenance and repair duties and equipment operation tasks associated with divisional work.

• Communicate technical information to audiences of varying levels of topic familiarity.

• Climb ladders, stairs, and work in lifting devices, and sufficient mobility to perform duties in small spaces by crouching, stooping, or kneeling and physical ability to perform tasks requiring physical strength (lifting heavy objects) and finger dexterity.

• Cost conscious and possess a conscientious work ethic; personifies "doing the job correctly the first time".

• Convey a message of willingness to "help" and explain all issues readily and thoroughly, ensuring the message is easily understood.

• Portray an image of knowledge, confidence, professionalism, fairness, and caring.