Operations Engineer

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States. We have been all about water for more than 80 years. Our team of professionals delivers reliable, quality water and great service to customers in 75 communities across California.

POSITION DEFINITION: Operations Engineer

Provides technical assistance and support with primary focus on resolving operational problems and optimizing the efficiency of water system operations. Responsible for water loss control activities, including water audits, leak detection, etc. Supervises Engineering Technicians or others in the collection, organization, archiving and distribution of engineering and operations records including system maps, production statistics, and fire flow records.

Accountability

The Operations Engineer reports to the General Manager and coordinates with the Manager of Technical Services when and where appropriate. The position supports District Operations and is accountable for the preparation, collection, organization, archiving and distribution of engineering, operations and water loss control records.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze system operations to identify operational changes that will improve service and improve system efficiency.
• Utilizes hydraulic models to assist in analyzing water system operations.
• Prepare recommendations to resolve water system operational problems.
• Prepare system wide and plant specific operational memos and provides updated information for plant site plans, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID), and schematics.
• Analyze treatment system operations and identify process changes to achieve and maintain treatment process optimization.
• Prepare technical reports and coordinates with superintendents on supply forecasts and budgets.
• Select replacement pumps, motors and control valves.
• Review and approve the work of Engineering Technicians including fire flow test reports and substructure requests.
• Reviews all system additions, upgrades and modifications within the district.
• Oversee and prioritize system water audits and leak detection to ensure district systems are in compliance with regulatory requirements governing water loss.
• Review and approve the work of third parties providing Water Loss Control services, including system water audits and leak detection and proper accounting of water use in each system.
• Manage employee’s career development profiles and prepare appropriate reports as necessary.
• Communicate orally and in writing in the English language with customers, clients, and the public face-to-face, in group settings.
• May be required to make public appearances in the evenings and to work on holidays and weekends. May be required to respond to emergencies.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A minimum of six (6) years or experience in performing complex work in the areas of water supply and water distribution operations, engineering and construction activities.
• Registration as a Professional Civil or Mechanical Engineer in the State of California preferred.
• Must be willing to travel up to 25% of the time.
• May include but not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling and/or pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, sitting, typing, walking, reading, writing, color determination, speaking and listening for extended periods of time.

Technical Skills and Experience

• Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and other applicable software.
• Working knowledge of principles and practices of water operations, planning and management, including use analysis and forecasting.
• Familiar with CPUC, SWRCB, RWQCB, fire department and other agency regulations as they pertain to water operations.
• Assist in forecasting water demands including seasonal and diurnal fluctuations; analyze system operations using hydraulic models and other computer programs.

Qualities of a Successful Operations Engineer:

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinate staff, peers, professional associates and with the general public.
• Flexible, thoughtful, accountable, and passionate about work.
• Willingness to learn.
• Excellent customer service support and interventions with a ‘can-do’ attitude.
• Direct experience in water system operations.

The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.

Note: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.

Golden State Water Company is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colors, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.