JOB TITLE:  ESO CLASS B
DIVISION: WATER PRODUCTION
DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC SERVICES

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB

Under general supervision, operates a 14.0 MGD surface water treatment plant using conventional water treatment techniques in compliance with all state and federal regulations. Determines distribution system demand and maintains adequate drinking water supply at all storage tanks. Collects, analyzes, and documents the results of water samples used for treatment process evaluation and drinking water quality monitoring. Performs any required laboratory quality control tasks. Performs all treatment plant operational duties. Attends training for new procedures and emergency situations. Reports to the Water Production Supervisor.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this position title. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position. 

Collects source water samples and analyzes for multiple water quality parameters; documents results of all analysis in accordance with laboratory procedures.

Adjusts pre-treatment and post treatment chemical dosages to maintain effective and efficient water treatment.

Collects treatment process samples analyzes for multiple water quality parameters; documents the results of all analysis in accordance with laboratory procedures.

Monitors and controls treatment plant processes, control treatment plant flow rates, and maintains distribution system capacities at required levels, utilizing the SCADA system.

Performs all required laboratory instrument calibrations and verifications; performs all laboratory quality control tasks in accordance with SCDHEC.

Performs all treatment plant operational activities to maintain drinking water quality and efficient plant operation.

Monitors distribution system pressures, flows, and tank levels; initiates corrective action if abnormal conditions occur.

Performs all required daily inspections of chemical feeders, chlorination equipment, and process equipment; reports any abnormalities to management.

Possesses a thorough knowledge of all laboratory and operational procedures.

Collects and analyzes distribution system samples for multiple water quality parameters; documents the results of all analysis in accordance with laboratory procedures.

Prepares laboratory standards and solutions in accordance with Standard Methods procedures.

Collects samples for water quality complaints and performs analysis; submits results to management for determination if corrective actions are necessary.

Performs emergency response duties related to operating the Water Treatment Facility and in the event of adverse weather conditions.

Receives and/or reviews information such as SCADA information, laboratory analysis results, shift turnover sheets, operation log book, and chemical dosage calculations.

Prepares and/or generates documents to include daily routine water analysis record, treatment plant operational records, lab instrument calibration reports, DHEC monthly report, and water quality analysis report.

Refers to lab equipment manuals, treatment plant operational records, treatment process information, SCADA alarms, and laboratory and operational procedures.

Utilizes a variety of computer software programs such as Microsoft Outlook.

Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals to include Water Production management, coworkers, other City departments, and the general public.

Operates a variety of machinery and equipment such as a lab spectrophotometer, pH meter, lab turbidimeter, chemical feed pumps, and VFDs.

Utilizes a mechanical tool set. 

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs all scheduled housekeeping duties at the Drinking water Treatment Facility and remote booster pump stations.

Assumes responsibility of plant operations in the absence of supervision.

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a High School diploma supplemented by three to four years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must possess a valid state driver’s license. Must possess a South Carolina Water Treatment Class “B” license.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED
TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Physical Requirements:  Tasks involve the ability to exert moderate, though not constant, physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, and the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 20 pounds) and occasionally heavier weight (up to 60 pounds).

Data Conception: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things.

Interpersonal Communications: Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes giving assignments and/or directions to subordinates and receiving assignments and/or direction from supervisor.

Language Ability:  Requires ability to read a variety of policy and procedure manuals, technical manuals, budget documents, engineering drawings, construction plans, etc.  Requires the ability to prepare reports, records, forms, etc., with proper format. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control and confidence.

Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in oral, written, diagrammatic or schedule form. Requires the ability to apply influence systems in managing a crew; to learn and understand relatively complex principles and techniques; to make independent judgments in absence of supervision; to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. Must have the ability to comprehend and interpret received information.

Verbal Aptitude:  Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow and give verbal and written instructions; to counsel and teach employees. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in a variety of technical and/or professional languages including personnel, construction, utility maintenance, etc.

Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to use high school basic algebra, e.g., formulas, variables, roots, radicals, monomials, polynomials, exponentials, etc. 

Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape, and visually read various information.

Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes using office machinery; to operate motor vehicles and heavy equipment.
 
Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to make precise movements with fingers, hands and arms, e.g., typing, machining, keying, data entering, etc.

Color Discrimination and Visual Acuity: Requires the ability to recognize specific colors and shades of color.

Interpersonal Temperament: Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under stress when confronted with emergency situations or tight deadlines. The worker may be subject to danger or risk to a moderate degree.

Physical Communications: Requires the ability to talk and hear: (talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing:  perceiving nature of sounds by ear).

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Knowledge of Job:  Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of the Public Services Department as they pertain to the performance of duties of the ESO Class B.  Has thorough knowledge of the rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing the operation of a water treatment laboratory. Is knowledgeable of records and reports required by the Environmental Protection Agency and the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control. Knows proper operating, maintenance and repair procedures for the upkeep and operation of department equipment and machinery. Is able to develop and implement policies and procedures to improve departmental operations and standards. Is able to maintain standards set by the EPA and DHEC as they related to water service.  Is able to use sound judgment in emergency situations in order to protect the health of the consumer. Knows how to maintain control of assigned activities through the effective supervision of subordinates and the application of good human relations techniques. Is able to analyze problems that arise in the areas under supervision and recommend solutions.  Is able to use judgment and discretion in managing assigned activities. Is able to comprehend, interpret and apply regulations, procedures and related information. Has good technical, and human relations skills.  Is able to work effectively despite occasional exposure to heat / cold, odors, toxic agents / hazardous materials, noise, wetness, humidity, electric currents, machinery hazards, dusts, vibrations, working in confined spaces, traversing uneven terrain, etc. Has the ability to help plan and coordinate the most effective use of personnel, facilities and resources to achieve department goals. Is able to provide effective supervision of assigned technical and maintenance staff.  Has the ability to offer instruction and advice to subordinates regarding departmental policies, methods and regulations. Is able to perform employee evaluations and to make recommendations based on results. Has the ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments as required.  Is able to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Has the ability to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities. Has the ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Is able to read and interpret technical materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job, including blueprints.  Is able to assemble information and make routine reports and records in a concise, clear and effective manner.  Has knowledge of the terminology used within the department.  Knows how to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals and members of the public through contact and cooperation. Is able to maintain positive customer-focused relationships with co-workers, supervisors, agencies, the general public, and all other internal and external customers. Has knowledge of proper English usage, vocabulary, spelling and basic mathematics. Is able to help prepare and monitor assigned division budget(s). Has knowledge of modern office practices and technology. 

Quality of Work: Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities.  Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts.

Quantity of Work:  Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations.

Dependability:  Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work.  Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Maintains accountability for assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and conceptual areas.

Attendance:  Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests.

Initiative and Enthusiasm:  Maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities. Strives to anticipate work to be accomplished, and initiates proper and acceptable action for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.

Judgment:  Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies issues or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives.  Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to issues or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment.

Cooperation: Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same. Questions such instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified, i.e., poor communications, variance with established policies or procedures, etc. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation intra- and inter-departmentally.

Relationships with Others: Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors and co-workers for mutual benefit. Contributes to maintaining high morale among all employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships inter- and intra-departmentally, and with external entities with whom the position interacts. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints in order to establish and maintain good will. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image.

Coordination of Work:  Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort.  Estimates expected time of completion of work elements and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning sessions and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.  

Safety and Housekeeping: Adheres to all established safety and housekeeping standards. Ensures such standards are not violated.  


DISCLAIMER:  This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.  EOE