Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: Z4015 / Master Water Systems Tech
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 11

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Coordinates the operations, maintenance, and quality management of the University's potable water system, ensuring compliance with relevant Environmental Protection Agency and other regulations applicable to a large-scale drinking water system. Independently performs and/or oversees water sampling, testing, analysis, and chemical treatment of a comprehensive range of industrial water treatment systems. Provides task supervision, mentorship, and instruction to lower level Water Techs on specific projects, as appropriate.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Obtains, reviews, analyzes, and interprets water quality data and prepares reports on quality, providing recommendations on findings; completes compliance reports for regulatory authorities.
  2. Oversees the proper water treatment for boilers, chillers, cooling towers, return condensate, and conditioned water systems and the disinfecting of the total water distribution system, reservoir, and smaller potable water lines.
  3. Inspects, tests and maintains systems including the fire hydrant system, building return condensate systems, reverse osmosis units, and deionized water softening units.
  4. Coordinates all facets of the chemical feed system including the planning, design, installation, programming, monitoring, and maintenance of chemical treatment equipment; oversees the transfer of all hazardous chemicals and materials.
  5. Coordinates maintenance schedules and work orders pertaining to water systems; participates in an on-call program for response and support of emergency situations involving the potable water system.
  6. Guides and trains technical staff in potable water sampling, water treatment methods & systems, and in the application of relevant governmental regulations.
  7. Represents the Utilities division in matters concerning the Safety and Risk Services (SRS) chemical safety program; may serve as chemical officer for the division.
  8. Coordinate and assist contractors working on Utility Water projects.
  9. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 4 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure: New Mexico Environment Division (NMED) Water Systems Operator Level III Certificate and Backflow Certificate.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret data and prepare evaluative summary reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to provide technical training to staff and/or students in area of expertise.
  • Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
  • Skill in the use of computer for technical and communication applications.
  • Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
  • Skill in conducting water sampling and emission control testing in compliance with the Clean Water Act.
  • Skill in the operation of fire hydrants, reverse osmosis, water softeners and condensate return systems.
  • Ability to operate on a scheduled 24-hour on-call basis.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to develop, recommend, and implement improvements in water delivery methods and procedures.
  • Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles and operational characteristics of potable water systems.
  • Ability to utilize mathematical formulae to resolve technical problems in area of specialty.
  • Technical problem solving skills within area of specialty.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and local and UNM regulations and standards for all relevant systems.
  • Ability to design, install, and program mechanical and electronic chemical treatment equipment.
  • Knowledge of current and developing trends in water system laws, regulations, standards, methods, and practices.
  • Ability to discern colors for colorimetric testing of water samples and/or reading of color-coded plan instrumentation.
  • Ability to manage all aspects of the disinfecting and treatment of a complex water distribution system.
  • Ability to perform tests and analyses to determine water potability.
  • Ability to interpret utility plant operational data and make service decisions.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) water quality data analysis, evaluation, and reporting, to include preparation of recommendations; b) provision of technical consultation and training to staff on water quality sampling and treatment and on application of all potable water regulations; c) oversight of the maintenance and quality control of all aspects of the chemical feed system; d) on-the-job leadership and training of lower level technical staff; e) serving as a primary point of expert guidance and consultation on current water treatments, methods, procedures, and techniques; f) possession of NMED Water Systems Operator Level III license.

Conditions of Employment

  • CPR and Basic First Aid Certificate
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Must maintain certification status.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises.
  • Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
  • Work may on occasion involve exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that may require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 05/01/2020