Water Loss Control Programs Technician I

Under general supervision, performs Distribution System Leak Detection services for retail water agencies throughout Orange County; assists in day-to-day operations of meter accuracy testing activities to pinpoint areas of water loss; assists with water loss control programs; participates in distribution system pressure surveys of retail systems; and performs related duties as assigned.

Water Loss Control Programs Technician I: This is the entry-level classification in the Water Loss Control Programs Technician series. Under close supervision, incumbents perform routine water loss control duties. Positions at this level usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress.Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this classification.

• Drives, walks, operates, and maintains equipment, tools, and vehicles in locating underground water leaks; determines the source of leak and who is responsible for repair.
• Documents and confirms suspected leaks according to District documentation standards.
• Works in the roadway and provides traffic control, according to District safety standards.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, maps, atlases, and specifications; maintains accurate journals and work assignments.
• Deploys and recovers distribution system pressure loggers on retail water agency distribution systems throughout Orange County.
• Provides equipment and maintenance support to member agency/retail staff; complies with applicable MWDOC and retail agency procedures.
• Complies with work-related safety practices and attends relevant safety training; ensures job sites are left safe and clean.
• Documents suspected and confirmed leaks, including location and general characteristics according to District documentation standards; completes leak reports and accurately tracks mileage completed; records all pertinent information in the Geographic Information System (GIS).
• Determines water loss of identified leaks using available information and industry standards.
• Supports other leak detection technology, opportunities, and programs.
• Performs special assignments and other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:
Maintenance and operation of water distributions systems; methods and procedures used in pulling and repairing large water meters and other equipment; traffic control practices and requirements; hand and power tools; safety policies, procedures, and safe work practices applicable to assignment including OSHA regula­tions; principles and practices of sound business communication; correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation; records management, recordkeeping, filing and basic purchasing practices and procedures; basic mathematical calculations; modern office procedures, methods, practices, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases .
Ability to:
Advise and provide interpretation to others on how to apply policies, procedures and standards; calculate water formulas and interpret applicable tables and charts; use good personal judgement and discretion in performing all job functions; exercise independent judgment when making decisions involving specific job functions, and most efficient utilization of staff and equipment; fully and accurately document suspected and confirmed leaks, including location and degree of certainty; initiate work activities on own with minimal direction; possess good communication and coordination skills and be able to work effectively in both office and field environments; practice safe work methods in the course of work; generate basic reports; operate a District vehicle and utilize and operate a variety of machinery and mechanical equipment and hand tools; operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including co-workers, outside agencies and the public.
Education and Experience:
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and one year (Water Loss Control Programs Technician I or three years (Water Loss Control Programs Technician II) of water maintenance work experience. The qualification guidelines generally describe the knowledge and abilities required to enter the job to successfully perform the assigned duties. Any combination of education, experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities will be considered. Public sector experience is preferred.