Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist / Senior

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for a Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist/Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist in the Water Resources & Policy Department.

Applications will be accepted until 50 qualified applications have been received.

The District
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

IRWD Values
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.

The Position

Under general supervision, assists in the implementation of the District’s Cross-Connection Control program in accordance with the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook & Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations, District’s Rules and Regulations, and District’s Procedural Guidelines to assure a safe drinking water supply with focus on design, installation, inspection and operation of on-site recycled water systems.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Manager. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist: This is an entry-level position in the Recycled & Cross-Connection Control series. With supervision, incumbents perform two primary responsibilities: (1) conduct on-going visual inspections and cross-connection tests of non-dual plumbed recycled water use sites which typically include irrigation sites such as parks, school grounds, golf courses, HOA common areas, medians, and parkways, and (2) review plans and conduct field inspection to insure compliance with applicable regulations before activating a new recycled water use site. Incumbents should have a comprehensive understanding of irrigation system components, including meters, controllers, pressure regulators, sprinklers, fillers, and drip emitters, as well as the ability to read and interpret construction plans and controller charts. Incumbents will collaborate with design firms, contractors, customers, and regulatory agencies.

The Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Specialist is distinguished from the Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Specialist in that the incumbent in the latter class will perform additional duties that include working on dual-plumbed sites. Dual-plumbed sites include the use of recycled water for interior uses or landscape irrigation at single-family lots that are controlled by the resident/homeowner and conducting hazard assessments in compliance with the District’s Cross Connection Control Plan.

Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist: This classification is the journey-level in the Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control series. The incumbent is required to possess a license as a Backflow Assembly Tester as well as a Cross-Connection Control Specialist certified by an entity meeting the standards described in the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook (e.g., American Water Works Association). The Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Specialist is distinguished from the Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Manager in that the incumbent in the latter class has management responsibilities for the entire Recycled Water division.

Positions in the Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist/Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist classification may be filled at either level, depending on the District’s needs and the qualifications of the applicant. These positions are flexibly staffed, and advancement from Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist to Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Specialist is possible upon meeting the minimum qualifications, demonstrating successful job performance, and receiving a recommendation from management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Understands the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook and Title 22 (use of recycled water) of the California Code of Regulations as they relate to the use of recycled water and hazard assessments.

Understands and applies District’s Procedural Guidelines and General Design Requirements as they relate to recycled water use sites and backflow protection. Requirements address matters such as pipe materials, pipe separation, pipe crossings, backflow protection, signage, system identification, hours of operations, and more.

Reviews and plan checks irrigations plans submitted for on-site recycled water use and/or residential, commercial, and industrial subdivisions to assure compliance with regulatory and District standards and specifications as they pertain to cross connection and backflow.

Conducts field inspections and cross connection tests of approved recycled water projects for compliance with State and local requirements.

Assists with project analysis, project management, and all preparations through to culmination of conversions or the retrofit of sites for the use of recycled water.

Performs periodic recycled water use site visual inspections, cross-connection tests and hazard assesments to monitor for compliance with State and local requirements. Documents and convey results to the Site Supervisor and/or responsible person.

For Dual-Plumbed projects, coordinates with Site Supervisor, installers, owner(s), and other agency inspectors, for inspections and compliance to all pertinent Procedural Guidelines, Engineering Report and Title 17 and Title 22 application requirements.

For Dual-Plumbed projects, coordinates the placement, recording and testing of appropriate backflow assembly protection(s).

For Dual-Plumbed projects, coordinates with State and County health agencies for final and on-going cross-connection test.

Assists in the compiling, drafting and final submittal of Title 22 Engineering Reports for dual plumbed projects.

Assists User Supervisors with training, scheduling inspections and cross connection testing of Title 22 dual-plumbed projects

Assists with project management and all preparations through to culmination of conversions or the retro-fit of sites for the use of recycled water.

Assists in notifying residential, commercial and industrial establishments when annual test reports are due.

Recommends appropriate action when test reports are not received within specified time limits.

Completes periodic back-testing of certified testers to ensure accuracy of reported results.

Performs maintenance and testing on District owned backflow assemblies.

Performs installation of temporary hydrant meters and backflows.

Assists other department staff as needed.

Inspects on-site construction activities such as meter locations and recycled water use, excavation of trenches, various sizes and types of pipelines, the back-fill of trenches and other water related appurtenances. Inspections will ensure the installation of on-site systems’ compliance with all District standards pertaining to recycled water use.

Performs hazard assessments, and electro-conductivity tests for each new meter installation.

Interacts with the public, architects, developers, contractors, regulators and other outside agencies with the goal of fulfilling various project related responsibilities.

Maintains all individual project files, electronic files and paperwork on a daily basis.

Monitors recycled water use sites to ensure their continued compliance with District Rules and Regulations including conducting scheduled inspections and testing.

Evaluates public and private irrigation systems and make appropriate recommendations to increase efficiency or resolve problem areas.

Determines acreage for all recycled and potable water meters.

Complies with safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

May be required to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, on-call duty (Standby Program) and respond to call backs.

Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education: Two (2) years of college education in Water Utility Science, Landscape Architecture/Horticulture, Water Resources or related field is required.

Experience: Four (4) years of experience working in field-related inspections, irrigation water systems, backflow testing/cross connection inspections and comprehensive understanding of irrigation systems, common components and functions (e.g. backflow prevention, controllers, strainers, sprinklers, quick couplers, automatic control valves). Ability to read plans and interpret the Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook and Title 22 regulations is required.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

For Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Specialist:

A valid Class ‘C’ California Driver’s License is required.

For Senior Recycled Water & Cross Connection Control Specialist:

A valid Class ‘C’ California Driver’s License is required.

Backflow Tester Certification and Cross Connection Specialist Certification from an agency recognized by the state board as meeting the requirements of the Cross Connection Policy Handbook.

California State Water Distribution Operator Grade 1 Certification.

Knowledge of:

• Basic hydraulic principles
• Backflow application and installation requirements
• Recycled water site use design and installation requirements including dual plumbed building requirements, inspection and testing requirements and methodology.

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively with all levels of office/field employees and management.
• Represent District in a professional manner when dealing with regulators, the public and District’s customers.
• Explain, demonstrate and clarify to others within well-established policies, procedures and standards, as well as the ability to follow specific instructions and respond to simple and difficult requests from others.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Proficient in the use of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Access)
• Understand and able to work with mathematical concepts relative to on-site irrigation design: fundamentals of algebra.
• Use good personal judgment, clear verbal communication and discretion in performing all job functions.
• Participate in the management of a comprehensive compliance and monitoring program.
• Interpret and apply District, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform medium to heavy physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb and descend ladders; to operate various equipment and tools; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites; and vision to locate utilities and read printed materials. Finger dexterity is needed to operate and repair tools and equipment. Employees must possess the ability to carry, push, pull, and lift materials and objects weighing 50 pounds on a routine basis. All of this in various weather conditions (hot, cold, rainy) and environments, often exposed to wet muddy conditions.

When working in an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, dust, air contaminants, with exposure to possible levels of unknown concentrations, malodorous, chemical or other materials in the field. Employees also work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Spark Hire : As part of our interview process, candidates will participate in a one-way video interview conductedthrough Spark Hire. This interview allows candidates to showcase their ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a recorded format. During the interview, candidates will respond to a series of pre-recorded questions, demonstrating their verbal communication skills, professionalism, and ability to articulate their qualifications efficiently.

Oral Interview Examination: will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; anda variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive,and may not be applicable to all employees.

Retirement
Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

IRWDdoes not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

Medical Insurance
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan.Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Dental Insurance
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage.IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Vision Insurance
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Life Insurance
Elgible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Deferred Compensation
Participation in adeferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

Paid Vacation
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

Paid Holidays
The District offers 11 scheduled paid holidaysplus one personal holiday per year.

Sick Leave
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

Educational Assistance
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

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• Irvine Ranch Water District

• (949) 453-5360

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