Position Title: Utilities Water Operator,Sr

Employee Classification: Utilities Water Operator,Sr

College/Division: Facilities and Services

Department: 500650-FS FACILITIES OPERATIONS AND UTIL

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  $23.24

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Non-Exempt

Summary:  Come join our Team!!

Classification Summary:
Responsible for operating equipment that is used to maintain and trouble-shoot potable water production equipment, sewer and/or gas infrastructure systems. Operates pumps, valves and other machinery to ensure that these systems are functioning properly at all times. Collects and tests samples of water and wastewater at various points in the treatment plant process. Regularly monitors machinery and equipment to ensure proper function and operation. Performs routine maintenance of plant and system equipment, distribution and collection systems, and facilities. Maintains accurate treatment plant records. May monitor gauges or other instruments that provide information about the status of their system. Identify problems before they become serious issues that require more extensive repair work.

Classification Standard Duties:
Perform maintenance and repairs on the Water District pipelines and additionally Microbiological, Chemical, and Radiological water sampling compliance procedures on a Public Water System. Performs monthly, quarterly and special annual interval water sampling tests. Conducts daily water quality monitoring and testing of chlorine and pH levels, cathodic corrosion testing, backflow prevention testing, water quality hydrant flushing, isolation valve exercising and recommended preventive maintenance routines at well sites, distribution pipelines and water storage facilities. Keeps record of water production and certified laboratory test results, metering and telemetry calibration reports.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education- High School diploma or GED certificate. Required Experience- Six (6) years of experience directly related to the standard duties as outlined. Equivalency- None. Certifications/License- NM Water Supply Operator Level-2.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of calibration standards and instrument installation requirements. Knowledge of current Public Regulatory Commission, Environmental Department, Administrative Codes and Federal Regulations. Working knowledge of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition platforms used in the Utility industry. SKILL: Skill in biological treatment processes through water analysis used for methods and techniques required to adjust chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite and polyphosphates for disinfection and corrosion management. Skilled in performing basic reading, writing and mathematical calculations related to the industry. Technical skills and experience with specialized tools required in the area of expertise. Skilled in principles, practices, techniques, and procedures involved in effective installation, maintenance, and repair of domestic water lines and services. ABILITY: Ability to calibrate and repair chemical feed equipment, calculate chemical dosages and perform laboratory water quality checks. Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Utility operator is responsible for operating equipment that is used to maintain and trouble-shoot potable water production equipment , sewer and/or gas infrustructure systems in the NMSU community. Operate pumps, valves and other machinery to ensure that these systems are functioning properly at all times. Operator may also be tasked with monitoring gauges or other instruments that provide information about the status of their system. This information can help them identify problems before they become serious issues that require more extensive repair work.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  Andres Bencomo, 575-646-6821, abencom1@nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Not Applicable

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Considerable physical activity. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of the job.

Lifting Requirements: Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds.

Risk: Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.