Operations Engineer (40.26)

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States.  We deliver quality, reliable water to more than 1 million people in over 80 communities throughout California.  Golden State Water has been in business for more than 90 years because we put customers first.

POSITION DEFINITION: Operations Engineer
Provides technical assistance and support to the assigned District with a primary focus on resolving operational problems, optimizing water system efficiency, and ensuring accurate system information. Coordinates with the General Manager and Superintendents to oversee water system modifications, water loss control activities and energy efficiency measures. Coordinates with Engineering Teams and Other Golden State Work Groups to gather data, update records, maintain the hydraulic models and identify critical Capital Improvement Projects.

Accountability
The Operations Engineer reports to the Operations Engineering Manager and coordinates with the assigned District General Manager 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:
• Analyzes system operations to identify operational changes that will improve service and improve system efficiency
• Assist in forecasting water demands including seasonal and diurnal fluctuations; analyze system operations using hydraulic models and other computer programs.
• Utilizes hydraulic models to assist in analyzing water system operations
• Prepares recommendations to resolve water system operational problems
• Prepares system-wide and plant specific operational memos and provides updated information for plant site plans, Operations, Maintenance, and Monitoring Plans (OMMP), and schematics
• Analyzes treatment system operations and identify process changes to achieve and maintain treatment process optimization
• Prepares technical reports and coordinates with superintendents on supply forecasts and budgets
• Selects replacement pumps, motors and control valves
• Reviews and approves the work of subordinates (Associate/Assistant Operating Engineers and/or Engineering Technicians) including fire flow test reports and substructure requests
• Reviews all system additions, upgrades and modifications within the district
• Oversees and prioritizes system water audits and leak detection to ensure district systems are in compliance with regulatory requirements governing water loss
• Reviews and approves 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
• Manages employee’s career development profiles and prepare appropriate reports as necessary
• Communicates 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

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

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

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.

BENEFITS

Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow.  Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents.  We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year.  To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan.  Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws.  Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.

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.