Utility Operations & Maintenance Specialist - Water Plant

Distinguishing Features of Work

This is skilled, technical work responsible for operation, maintenance, and repair of water treatment and transmission equipment in a water plant, pump station, wellfield, and / or recharge facility.

This position is responsible for various duties related to production, pumping, and distribution systems to meet water drinking water system demands and water quality permit requirements for a plant that is being constructed at 2120 N.

Hoover in Wichita. Specific duties vary according to assigned location(s) and employee’s Competency Level and / or skills.

Work is directed and reviewed by a supervisor.

Experience in the water treatment industry is a valued asset. Compensation will be based on individual experience and determined at hire based on skills and competencies.

The role provides additional opportunities for swift pay progression linked to the development of skills and competencies.

The salary range for this position is $26.92 39.56 hourly.

The days and hours for this position : Multiple Shifts Available. Shifts include nights and / or weekends.

Bargaining Unit : Service Employee's International (SEIU)

Employees within the department of division shall be given first consideration

Examples of Work Performed

• Operates and maintains plant equipment such as pumps, motors, chlorinating equipment, chemical feed systems, piping, flow meters, electromechanical equipment, and other components of a drinking water system.
• Operates and maintains water source components such as surface wells, water intakes, and gate valves.
• Operates and maintains water transmission components such as pipelines, air releases, vacuum breakers, and flow meters.
• Complies with established service and preventive maintenance programs to ensure efficient operation and prolonged useful life of equipment.
• Collects water samples and performs basic chemical tests.
• Reads and records measurements and performance data from operating equipment
• Manually adjusts water transmission and treatment process equipment, such as valves and chemical feed systems, that are not controlled remotely.
• Monitors water levels in reservoirs and towers and makes appropriate pump changes.
• Recognizes equipment problems and assists higher level staff with troubleshooting and repairs.
• Records information about plant performance on log sheets or computer databases.
• Coordinates activities with Process Control personnel to assure that activities do not conflict with operational needs.
• Maintains inventory of chemicals and parts.
• May train or lead other employees on routine work.
• More complex work assignments will be required as employees attain higher levels of competency.
• The examples of work performed are not intended to be all-inclusive.
• The City of Wichita reserves the right to assign additional responsibilities as needed, including but not limited to tasks performed by IEC Specialists, Water Quality Specialists, and Process Control Specialists.

Requirements of Work

• Knowledge of the methods, tools, and materials used in mechanical and electromechanical systems.
• Knowledge of work hazards and ability to take necessary safety precautions.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals.
• Ability to use a computer to access, interpret and record information
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work at heights of up to 45 feet and in equipment pits
• Ability to walk variable distances multiple times per shift and to bend, twist, and reach as necessary to repair equipment
• Ability to tolerate exposure to airborne environmental nuisances associated with open grounds, exposure to chemicals and fluids used in water treatment and in building / equipment maintenance, exposure to adverse weather conditions, and equipment and machinery noise (with the use of earplugs).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds independently, and to lift and carry up to 120 pounds with assistance of another person.
• Ability to exert up to 100 pounds of pressure using tools that tighten, loosen, or cut.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather.
• Ability to be available for after-hour emergencies including on-call duties.
• Ability to drive at night.
• Wellfield positions require ability to operate a bucket truck, digger truck, backhoe, well pulling rig, and other wellfield equipment.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other employees.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to acquire and maintain a valid Kansas Class A Commercial Drivers License
• An employee shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace.

Required Experience and Training

High school diploma or equivalent educational attainment is necessary.

Experience in building or mechanical repair work, water treatment and supply system operations, or related trade school training is desired.

Prior expereince in a water or wastewater treatment plant is preferred.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need of a sponsorship.

Offers of employment are contingent upon passing a pre-employment physical which includes drug screening, and upon satisfactory evaluation of the results of a criminal record check.

Starting pay for current City employees will be determined by City of Wichita policy or applicable bargaining unit agreement.