Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: Z2015 / Water Systems Tech
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 10

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

Operates and maintains the University's potable water system, ensuring compliance with relevant Environmental Protection Agency and other regulations applicable to a large-scale drinking water system. Performs water sampling, testing, analysis, and chemical treatment of a comprehensive range of water treatment systems. May provide guidance and instruction to lower level Water Techs on specific projects, as appropriate.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Monitors and analyzes water samples to ensure compliance with governmental regulations for potable water systems; collects water samples to ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations for safe, potable water systems.
  2. Designs, plans, and installs chemical treatment equipment and electronic programming for chemical feed, based on calculations of systems requirements to maintain control parameters on boilers, towers, potable water systems, and related equipment.
  3. Oversees all facets of the chemical feed system, to include maintaining chemical inventories, setting up chemical injection and transport points, and feeding all hazardous chemicals.
  4. Ensures proper water treatment of boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and conditioned water with the assistance of water treatment consultants; participates in an on-call program for response and support of emergency situations involving the potable water system.
  5. Inspects and monitors chemical feed equipment and identifies reasons for malfunctions; performs minor maintenance and repairs, as necessary.
  6. Processes and/or coordinates the timely execution of all domestic water work orders; assists with ordering repair parts and maintaining inventory control.
  7. Creates, composes, and edits technical and/or administrative correspondence, using computers and relevant software applications.
  8. Trains staff in water chemistry and/or potable water sampling, as appropriate; may guide and train staff in plant water systems operation.
  9. Supports, promotes, and utilizes computerized maintenance management systems.
  10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 2 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure: New Mexico Environment Division (NMED) Water Systems Operator Level II 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

  • Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
  • Records maintenance skills.
  • Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
  • Ability to respond as needed on an on-call 24/7 basis.
  • Skill in the use of computer for technical and communication applications.
  • Ability to provide on-the-job and technical guidance and training to staff.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Organizing and coordinating skills.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the principles and operational characteristics of water treatment feeding systems.
  • Technical problem solving skills within area of specialty.
  • Ability to utilize mathematical formulae to resolve technical problems in 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.
  • Ability to discern colors for colorimetric testing of water samples and/or reading of color-coded plan instrumentation.
  • 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) independently sampling, analyzing, and chemically treating water in all University potable water systems; b) designing, installing, and/or programming, and monitoring chemical treatment equipment; c) guiding and training others in potable water treatment procedures; d) understanding and enforcing all EPA and related regulations pertaining large-scale potable water systems; e) possession of NMIED Water Systems Operator Level II licensure and Water Sampling Certificate.

Conditions of Employment

  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • CPR and Basic First Aid Certificate
  • Must maintain certification status.
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
  • 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 environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that 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