Water Quality Technician

This is the journey-level classification in the Water Quality Technician series

Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to, the following:

Ensures Department services are provided with exceptional customer service and the highest level of ethical standards.

Collects and analyzes water samples from Glendale Water & Power’s (GWP) distribution system, including groundwater wells, treatment plants, and storage facilities.

Performs routine field and laboratory water quality tests of source and treated water, including, but not limited to tests for disinfection, nitrification and microbiological contamination to ensure safety of drinking water. 

Calibrates, troubleshoots and maintains analytical instruments. Cleans sample bottles and portable laboratory equipment. Maintains sample stations and automatic flushing units.

Conducts well soundings.

Receives and responds to water quality-related inquiries and concerns from customers. Conducts field investigations and effectively communicates findings.

Assists GWP’s flushing program to enhance water quality delivered to customers.

Prepares daily written logs of monitoring and chain-of-custody records. Reads and records information from gauges and meters. 

Applies calcium and sodium hypochlorite to water storage facilities and pipelines.

Climbs in and out of trenches, construction excavations, and utility vaults. Lifts work-related objects and materials up to 50 pounds in weight.

Climbs ladders on facilities greater than 40 feet in height.

Assists in maintaining complex disinfection systems.

May have the opportunity to participate in related divisional cross-training efforts. Experience and qualifications gained in this cross-training may apply towards promotional opportunities and transfers.

Works independently on a variety of assignments requiring the application of acquired technical knowledge gained through water quality and sampling field work.

Drives on City business.

Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of the position are performed in a safe efficient manner.

Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.

Minimum Requirements:

An equivalent combination of experience and education sufficient to perform the essential job functions and provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Experience

Two years of experience in water industry operations, laboratory analysis, or field sampling.

Education/Training

High School Diploma or equivalent. 

Associate of Arts or Associate of Science in Chemistry, Lab Science, Lab Technician, Water System Technology or a related field is desirable.

License(s)/Certification(s)

Valid Class C California driver’s license.

A Water Distribution Operator Grade 1 (D-1) issued by the State Water Resource Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Must possess or obtain a Water Distribution Operator Grade “2” (D2) issued by the State Water Resource Control Board, Division of Drinking Water within the first year of appointment to this position.

A Treatment Operator Grade 2 (T2) is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

Basic mathematical principles such as adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing whole numbers, decimals and fractions.

Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Office computer systems and applicable software.

Proper English, spelling and grammar.

Knowledge of and skill in:

Basic principles of water chemistry, sampling methods and testing techniques.

Federal, State and local water quality regulations.

Principles and practices of exceptional customer service.

Skill in:

Completing documents with detail and accuracy.

Operating a variety of basic water testing equipment and related equipment in a safe and effective manner.

Ability to:

Provide exceptional customer service to employees and vendors.

Accept constructive feedback.

Climb in and out of trenches, construction excavations and utility vaults.

Climb ladders on facilities greater than 40 feet in height.

Collect and analyze data in the field using a variety of equipment and collection methodologies.

Communicate and interact well with co-workers and customers.

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Develop the necessary skills from on-the-job training and meet the standards of performance for the classification by the end of the probationary period.

Effectively work independently and as part of a team.

Establish smooth working relationships and effectively resolve interpersonal conflicts.

Exercise good judgment and discretion in problem situations.

Follow written and oral directions.

Foster a teamwork environment.

Make sound decisions with established guidelines.

Model and practice the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Lift work-related objects and materials up to 50 pounds in weight.

Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.

Organize, prioritize and follow up on work assignments.

Provide exceptional customer service to those utilizing GWP Department services.

Read, interpret and record data accurately.

Work effectively in the absence of supervision.

Other Characteristics

Willingness to:

Assume responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.

Attain and hold the required certification as required for each classification.

Work the necessary hours and times, including overtime, to accomplish goals, objectives and required tasks.

Work overtime as requested and required.