Cross Connection Specialist

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THE POSITION

The City of San Fernando is seeking an experienced and responsible professional to become a full-time Cross Connection Specialist in our Public Works Department. Under general supervision, performs a variety of skilled and technical tasks in the administration of the City’s Cross Connection Programs and surveys the potable and recyclable water systems for possible sources of contamination or pollution to the public water supply; and performs related duties as required. This position floats between production and distribution divisions as needed, and reports directly to the Water System Supervisor. 

IMPORTANT & ESSENTIAL DUTIES

The duties listed in this bulletin are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The complete job specification may be found here: SFCITY.ORG/Hiring-Now/#Job-Specs

• Oversees the City’s Cross Connection Control Program, which makes sure that 480 backflows are tested annually, 75 fire services, property inspections, City backflow testing/installations and construction meters. • Conducts plan reviews and site surveys to determine appropriate backflow protection at service meters. • Performs field inspections; tests new installations; installs, repairs, maintains and tests backflow prevention assemblies. • Enforces annual testing of backflow devices by users. • Conducts studies and prepares reports; maintains files; compiles data and daily logs of cross connection and/or water activities. • Performs on-site pressure/shutdown test of water user’s systems.

Knowledge Of: • Methods, materials, equipment and practices used in water works maintenance and construction. • The principles of identifying and controlling potential water system cross connections and pollution sources. • Testing procedures for all types of backflow devices. • Proper installation requirements for backflow devices. • Regulatory codes and laws relating to the operation of a water system, including but not limited Title 17 (backflow) and Title 22 (water quality). • Occupational hazards and safety precautions in the workplace. • State requirements and standards for the use of recycled water.

Ability To: • Perform backflow and recycled water surveys. • Prepares written reports; maintain databases and files. • Read and interpret blueprints/diagrams. • Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. • Establish and maintain effective working • Understand and speak Spanish is highly desirable. 

EXPERIENCE & TRAINING GUIDELINES

A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be the following:

Experience: • Four years of recent experience in construction or maintenance work in a public or private water utility system is required.

Training: • Graduation from high school or GED equivalent is required. • Technical training or college-level coursework in water technology or a related field is desirable.

Special Requirements: • Must possess a valid California Class C driver’s license as well as maintain insurability. • A valid certificate as a “Backflow Prevention Tester” issued by the California/Nevada Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). • Certification as a “General Backflow Prevention Device Tester” issued by the County of Los Angeles • Department of Health Services is required within six months of appointment. • A valid D-2 Water Distribution Operator certificate issued by the State of California Department of Health Services. • Certification as a Cross Connection Program Specialist, Grade I is required within two years of appointment.

Physical Requirements: Essential duties require the following physical and environmental conditions: ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, squat, stoop, reach, twist, climb and lift up to 100 lbs; may be exposed to sun, and work under high and low temperatures (mostly between 40 and 90 degrees); may be exposed to toxic/poisonous substances, slippery surfaces and frequent loud noises. May be required to work various shifts and standby at night, on weekends and holidays as needed.