Water System Operator, Senior – City of Seattle

Title of the Job: Water System Operator, Senior

Location: Seattle, WA

Job Description: Position DescriptionAn online application must be fully completed for consideration. Please DO NOT attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of candidate’s qualifications.Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an experienced Senior Water System Operator to be a part of the Water/Wastewater Operations Control Center Team. This section is responsible for central control operations of the Regional Water and Wastewater systems.If you feel this may be the perfect job for you, please continue reading …and APPLY!About Seattle Public Utilities (SPU): Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:SPU commits to and as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.Why join us?We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free public transportation options
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Job Responsibilities

• Monitoring and control of the Seattle regional water and city wastewater systems using a PC-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure uninterrupted delivery of water that meets all regulatory, contractual, and customer service level requirements.
• Coordinate operation of the water supply system with other branches within SPU as well as external jurisdictions such as water district during construction or emergency response.
• Assist with the coordination of special projects, capital improvement projects, and provide technical expertise to project managers, management and others.
• Assist in the supervision of the Operations Control Center. Train and serve as lead worker for other Water System Operators.
• Responsible for coordinating and scheduling planned maintenance, emergency repairs, and investigating potential problems that may affect the ability of the transmission and distribution system to maintain an adequate water supply.
• Oversee coordination of river diversion intake operations, hydroelectric plant operations and dam release gate operations to meet specific river flow requirements.
• Plan and/or approve major shutdowns as needed to facilitate construction or emergency response; advise project managers of potential conflicts in maintaining service during construction.
• Assist with the monitoring and regulation of water supply source and distribution systems to meet safety, regulatory, operational and contractual requirements and guidelines.
• Respond to water supply emergencies. Troubleshoot hydraulic problems in the system and advise crews during fire or main break response.

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.QualificationsExperience: A minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a Water System Operator or equivalent and/or two years of college level course work toward an associate degree in Waterworks, Water Management or equivalent water resource degree and one year of previous related work experience.Education and Experience Equivalency: Or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class.License, Certification and Other Requirements:

• Certification by the State of Washington as a Water Distribution Manager Class I and fulfillment of continuing education requirements.
• Current State of Washington driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Special Conditions:

• Required to be available after hours for standby duty for emergency response.
• May be required to work in hazardous environments such as confined spaces, heights, traffic, and electrical/mechanical/chemical equipment.
• May be required to work nights, evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
• Required to lift objects weighing in excess of 50 pounds.

Desired Qualifications:

• Clear, effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable with field work and directing the work others.
• Strong computer skills.
• Familiar with GIS.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently under routine and emergency situations while remaining calm and focused.
• Knowledge of field construction, instrumentation, SCADA systems, water treatment practices, water quality guidelines and regulations.
• Knowledge of wastewater and stormwater discharge regulations.
• Ability to read, interpret and understand water/wastewater system maps, construction drawings, and project schedules.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively within a multi-cultural workforce serving a diverse customer base.

Additional InformationHow to Apply: Please fully complete an online application. Please DO NOT attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of the candidate’s qualifications.Workplace Environment: Employees will be required to come into the office five days a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.The full salary range for this position is $50.65 – $58.86 per hour.Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holidays, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.Background: This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided with an opportunity to explain or correct background information.More information about employee benefits is available on the City’s website at:Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.If you have any questions, please contact Charles Gilmore atLearn more about at .The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.More information about employee benefits is available on the City’s website at:

Company Name: City of Seattle

Salary: $50.65 – 58.86 per hour

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