Water Quality Control Technician

City of Portsmouth•Portsmouth, VA

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Water Quality Control Technician implements the city’s Backflow Prevention Program by coordinating, supervising, monitoring, and checking water connections to assure backflow prevention. The position reports to the Water Quality Compliance Superintendent. Individual assignments are determined by the supervisor based on current workload and department needs. The technician conducts backflow inspections, determines hazard levels and appropriate preventers, maintains customer and distribution-system records, and responds to water-quality concerns. The role also coordinates laboratory tests, collects compliance samples, performs inspections of devices at city and industrial facilities, and works with building inspection staff, industries, and citizens to ensure devices are installed in accordance with applicable laws. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, some college coursework in chemistry, biology, or a related field, and 1–2 years of experience in water distribution or a related field and in handling customer-service concerns, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required. A Backflow Prevention Device Tester’s License is required or must be obtained within six months of hire. The position is subject to background checks, pre-employment medical evaluation and substance-abuse testing, and random alcohol and controlled-substance testing. Physical demands include medium work and exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 25 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, with some college coursework in chemistry, biology, or a related field.
1–2 years of experience in water distribution or a related field and 1–2 years of experience handling customer-service concerns, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Possession of a Backflow Prevention Device Tester’s License or ability to obtain one within six months of hire.
Acceptable general background check, including local and state criminal history checks.
Pre-employment medical evaluation and substance-abuse testing; subject to random alcohol and controlled-substance testing.
General knowledge of federal, state, and local codes pertaining to backflow prevention regulations and requirements, and of inspection, surveying, and testing practices for backflow control devices.
Some knowledge of Microsoft Office Suites and developing reports of work performed.
Ability to handle customer concerns, create reports and documents, represent the organization positively, and deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, construction drawings, city code, contracts, and specifications; prepare reports; and communicate effectively in standard English and construction terminology.
Ability to use mathematical formulas and perform basic arithmetic, percentages, and proportions.
Ability to coordinate hands and eyes in using a vehicle and materials-testing equipment; handle office equipment and a vehicle; and differentiate colors and shades.
Ability to perform medium physical work, including exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 25 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly.
Ability to communicate by speaking and hearing, including by telephone, and to work under stress, including in emergency situations.

Responsibilities

Schedule and conduct backflow inspections; categorize inspections by degree of hazard and determine the type of backflow preventer required.
Create records on existing customers and maintain accurate maps of distribution systems and their components.
Conduct weekly field inspections and maintain accurate maintenance and test records for backflow preventers, including industrial devices.
Respond to customer complaints and inquiries from citizens, businesses, and civic groups regarding water quality.
Coordinate laboratory tests in response to concerns and collect water compliance samples required under 12VAC5-590-370.
Comply with city ordinances and notify appropriate parties of hazardous problems.
Receive and handle customer complaints.
Perform annual inspections of backflow preventer devices at city facilities.
Prepare written reports on inspections of backflow devices at industrial facilities.
Work with building inspection staff and industries to ensure backflow prevention devices are installed in accordance with local, state, and federal laws and that the appropriate device is installed.
Work with industries and citizens.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Plan and organize daily work, set priorities, maintain a calendar for meetings and deadlines, and complete work according to applicable directives, policies, standards, and procedures.
Adhere to city and regulatory-agency safety and housekeeping standards and maintain an orderly workplace.