Water System Operator - City of Seattle, WA : Job Details

An 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 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 Website

* SPU Workplace Expectations (Download PDF reader)

* Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice 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

* Monitoring and controlling the Seattle Regional water and wastewater systems via a PC-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure uninterrupted delivery of water and proper collection and conveyance of wastewater that meets all regulatory, contractual and customer service level requirements.

* Operate various water facilities via the SCADA system including pump stations, water storage facilities, and valve stations.

* Operate various wastewater facilities via the SCADA system including lift stations, valve stations, surface water facilities and CSO structures.

* Control system operations during dewatering, filling, repairs and maintenance of pipelines, reservoirs, tanks, standpipes, pumps, and valve stations.

* Respond to and investigate SCADA system alarms, direct and coordinate field crew responses when emergency repairs are needed. Troubleshoot hydraulic problems and advise field crews in repairs of facilities.

* Maintain detailed operations logs, data collection and reporting systems. Perform hydrological and meteorological monitoring, data collection and analysis.

* Grant system clearances for shutdowns during scheduled operations and emergency repairs. Coordinate emergency response with other internal divisions and external groups, including Transmission & Distribution, wholesale customers, Seattle Fire and regulatory/resource agencies.

* Monitor dam failure warning systems and perform system testing as required.

* Read, interpret, and convey information from multiple sources including printed maps, electronic mapping systems (GIS), construction drawings, engineering documents, project specifications, O&M manuals, as well as digital versions of similar information.

* Coordinate river diversion intake operations, hydroelectric plant operations and dam release gate operations to meet specific river flow requirements.

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.

Experience: A minimum of one (1) year experience in a water utility or one year of college level course work toward an associate degree in Waterworks, Water Management or equivalent water resource degree.

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 work rotating shifts, nights, evenings, weekends and/or holidays.

* Required to lift objects weighing in excess of 50 pounds.

* May occasionally be required to work in hazardous environments (confined space, traffic, heights, and electrical/mechanical/chemical equipment).

Desired Qualifications:

* Clear, effective written and verbal communication skills.

* Strong computer skills.

* Familiar with GIS.

* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

* Ability to work independently, gather and analyze data quickly and accurately, and make decisions with minimal guidance from supervisors.

* Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently under routine and emergency situations while remaining calm and focused.

* Knowledge of field 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.

How 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 $47.76 - $55.58 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 at [email protected]

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/.