Career Opportunities: Remote Water Systems Operator (15007)

JOB SUMMARY

The mandate of Water Services is to provide treatment and distribution of a sustainable supply of high-quality drinking water and is committed to protecting the environment by collecting and treating wastewater for the health and prosperity of Ottawa. 

You are responsible for day-to-day operations and water quality monitoring in the drinking water supply system including (16) pumping stations, (4) elevated tanks, (5) water reservoirs, (6) municipal well systems (Carp, Kings Park, Munster, Richmond, Greely, & Vars), and (50) routine water sampling/monitoring locations.  While on-site in the remote water facilities, you act as the Operator-In-Charge in accordance with O.Reg. 128/04 taking readings, inspecting, conducting tests, and adjusting the treatment process as required.  You also provide a first response for operational emergencies or alarms the water supply system, during both day-hours and off-hours as on-call.  Additionally, you provide front-line customer service for customer complaints/concerns related to water quality, conduct in-home testing, investigation, and provide technical information to residents.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of 3 year Community College technologist program in environmental science, engineering technologist, chemical technologist, water & wastewater treatment, or a directly related field of study.

Minimum 5 years operating experience in Class I (or higher) water treatment system.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES

KNOWLEDGE

• Comprehensive knowledge of water treatment processes and equipment
• Comprehensive knowledge of operating principles for electrical and mechanical systems
• Advanced knowledge of Provincial regulations for drinking water quality and treatment
• Advanced knowledge of laboratory QA/QC procedures and sampling techniques
• Instrumentation and control (SCADA) fundamentals for process operations
• Intermediate knowledge of applied mathematics, hydraulics, chemistry, & physics
• Intermediate knowledge of mechanical systems and equipment
• Intermediate knowledge of water distribution system operations
• Detailed knowledge of City of Ottawa and Water Services policies & procedures
• Occupational Health and Safety Act, procedures, & safety equipment

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrate effective communications (written and verbal) to all levels of staff
• Advanced communication skills for dealing with public and customer complaints
• Record data and operational logs as required in a clear and concise manner
• Work with sensitive process and analytical instruments
• Troubleshoot equipment and solve process problems
• Work from elevated platforms, climb ladders, confined spaces
• Work in outside weather conditions
• Work effectively with minimal supervision
• Must be able to comply with the City of Ottawa’s Respiratory Protection Policy
• Must be able to carry out physical requirements of position including lifting 20 kg container of hypochlorite solution; 
• Ability to work on-call and overtime is an explicit requirement of the job duties
• Alertness and attention to detail
• Conscientious and dependable
• Personable with customers and general public
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Good attendance record