PROMOTIONAL - OPEN TO CITY OF WHITTIER EMPLOYEES ONLY
WILL CLOSE AFTER RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 150 APPLICATIONS OR OCTOBER 8,2026 WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST DEFINITION
Class specifications are only intended to present a descriptive summary of the range of duties and responsibilities associated with specified positions. Therefore, specifications may not include all duties performed by individuals within a classification. In addition, specifications are intended to outline the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into the class and do not necessarily convey the qualifications of incumbents within the position.
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, performs skilled maintenance and repair of water production, treatment, booster, and telemetry systems; assists in the development of plant work schedules and assigns work; ensures the effective sampling and treatment of water; records plant operations activities; performs other related duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Water Production Specialist is the single position lead specialist class in the City's Water Production Division. This class is responsible for safe operation and testing of water treatment systems and facilities. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Water Production Supervisor in that the latter has overall management responsibility for the operations of water booster, pumping, and treatment facilities.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Water Production Supervisor. May exercise technical and functional supervision over water utility and production workers and/or assigned maintenance workers.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(include but are not limited to the following)
- Assists in the supervision of and participates in the safe operation and routine testing and maintenance of water, treatment systems, facilities, and surrounding grounds.
- Prepares routine reports regarding water treatment according to established procedure; prepares and maintains records of plant operations activity.
- Assists in the development and installation of new equipment and systems; performs supplies and equipment purchasing in accordance with established procedures; provides liaison to vendors and contractors; inspects work performed.
- Provides lead direction to water operations staff; trains new employees; provides input into the evaluation of assigned personnel; recommends disciplinary action as necessary.
- Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, State/local agencies, City management and staff, and the public.
OTHER DUTIES
(include but are not limited to the following)
- Assists in preparing work schedules and the effective testing and treatment of water.
- Answers emergency calls from the public and other agencies taking appropriate action.
- May be exposed to confidential and privileged information during the course of duties, which should be maintained as such.
- Performs other related duties as required.
PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work, reading documents, and operating assigned office and/or field equipment. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in preparing reports using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading written reports and work related documents. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, carry, and push tools, equipment, and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds may also be required. Additionally, the position may require outdoors field work in all weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold. The position may use chemicals and lubricants, which may expose the employee to fumes, dust, and air contaminants, and be exposed to mechanical and biological hazards. The nature of the work may also require the incumbent to work in confined spaces; use power and noise producing tools and equipment, and drive motorized vehicles in heavy vehicle traffic conditions. The incumbent may be required to respond to after hours emergency call-outs. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
QUALIFICATIONS
(The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) Education and/or
Experience:
Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Water Production Specialist. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of three years of journey level experience in the operation and routine maintenance of water treatment systems, and a high school diploma or equivalent.
License/Certificate:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California driver's license. Possession of Grade III certification as a Water Treatment Operator as issued by the California State Department of Health Services.
KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS
(The following are a representative sample of the KAS's necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)
Knowledge of:
Equipment and procedures involved in the safe operation, maintenance, and repair of water treatment systems, including chlorination, electrical, and mechanical equipment; methods and techniques of supervision; applicable Federal, State and local laws, codes, and regulations; methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments; modern office procedures, practices, methods, and equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation; proper English, spelling, and grammar; and occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
Ability to:
Operate and perform journey level maintenance and repair of equipment related to water treatment systems; draw samples and perform routine tests; read and interpret meters and charts; keep records and prepare reports; work effectively in the absence of supervision; coordinate the work of others engaged in operations and routine maintenance activity; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Skill to:
Safely and effectively operate a variety of diagnostic equipment and power and hand tools used in water production and telemetry systems maintenance.