Utilities Plant Operator I/II - Water

About the role

The City of Modesto is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our Utilities team as Utilities Plant Operator I/II. This position is for the Water Division and involves performing skilled and semi-skilled technical duties in the operation and maintenance of the city's water production/treatment plants.

Responsibilities

• Perform assigned treatment/production plant rounds inspecting, monitoring, and documenting plant operations.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and adjust treatment/production plant flows, pumps, motors, feeders, and other specialized equipment to maintain appropriate plant operations.
• Operate and maintain lift stations and pump stations.
• Operate equipment such as forklifts, lifts, and overhead cranes.
• Maintain, repair, and service plant operations machinery and equipment including pumps, valves, motors, meters, tanks, and reservoirs, as necessary.
• Check Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) parameters through onsite and remote interfaces in order to monitor and operate systems and to identify maintenance needs; maintain, adjust, and repair SCADA system; enter data into the system at remote sites using micro-computer or other devices.
• Collect liquid samples and perform a variety of routine water and wastewater process laboratory tests; record and monitor results.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of all plant activities; record mathematical calculations related to operational activities; compile data and prepare reports on plant operations, distribution systems, and chemical use.
• Respond to and investigate public concerns regarding water/wastewater quality problems.
• Perform general plant maintenance such as cleaning, painting, and repairing plant facilities.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures.

Requirements

• Knowledge of principles and practices of water or wastewater treatment/production plants, depending upon assignment.
• Operating principles of plant equipment such as valves, pumps, and motors.
• Standard principles of the natural sciences including chemistry and biology.
• Safe work practices in a variety of situations such as confined spaces.
• Laboratory analysis techniques and standards for water and/or wastewater.
• Safe handling techniques for materials and equipment used in water/wastewater treatment.
• Operational and safety regulations pertaining to water and/or wastewater treatment/production plant operations and vehicle and equipment usage.
• Sampling methods and techniques.
• Basic plumbing and electrical principles.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computerized pump control systems.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalency.
• Valid California driver’s license.
• May be required to successfully pass the CalOSHA Respirator Medical Screening evaluation and fit test.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid Class B Commercial California driver’s license with specific endorsements within ninety (90) days of appointment.
• Must be a minimum 18 years of age at time of application.
• May be required to attend and successfully complete training courses as needed to perform assigned duties, including first aid and CPR.

Skills

• Ability to analyze and compile technical and statistical information and prepare reports.
• Ability to respond to difficult and sensitive public inquiries.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations and make appropriate decisions.
• Ability to identify malfunctions with pumping capacities, pneumatic controls and computerized controls.
• Ability to perform standby duty as assigned.
• Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions with pumping capacities, pneumatic controls and computerized controls, and determine effective course of action for correcting them.

Benefits

Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) enrollment is dependent on eligibility, as per AB 340. Employee pays the full member contribution. Retirement benefit is based on the employee's three-year final compensation average. The City does not participate in Social Security except for the required 1.45% Medicare contribution by both the City and the employee.

Pay

Salary offered depends on candidate’s experience.

Schedule

Positions may require occasional overtime or weekend work and irregular hours in emergency situations. Positions may be required to perform standby on-call duties as scheduled.

Additional Information

Modesto City Employee Association (MCEA) Employee benefits are subject to change and are not guaranteed. For a detailed explanation of benefits currently in effect please see the Memoranda of Understanding.