Specialist, Water Quality - (26-WQ&T-813012-069)

District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority•Washington, WA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties, locations, and responsibilities performed by incumbent(s) in this job. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties in this description, and incumbent(s) may be required to perform work-related tasks other than those specifically listed in this description. This job description is not a “contract” between the employee and the Authority. The job duties and essential functions may be changed at the discretion of the General Manager. At DC Water, we provide more than 700,000 District of Columbia residents and 24.6 million annual visitors with essential water, wastewater, and stormwater services. DC Water also provides wholesale wastewater treatment services for 1.8 million people in Montgomery and Prince George's counties in Maryland, and Fairfax and Loudoun counties in Virginia. We aspire to be known for superior service, ingenuity, and stewardship to advance the health and well-being of our diverse workforce and communities. To achieve this vision, we commit to our shared mission every day—exceeding expectations by providing high quality water services in a safe, environmentally friendly, and efficient manner. The Specialist, Water Quality position supports drinking water quality throughout the District of Columbia with a broad range of responsibilities including field work, customer communication, providing data analytics and GIS mapping support, research, and interagency information coordination. Assignments are developed principally through the needs of the Branch and the operating and maintenance requirements of the water distribution system.

Requirements

Two (2) years of progressive experience in review and analysis of water and water quality related programs or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Engineering, or related field from an accredited university or college.
Skill in communicating, orally and in writing.
Ability to multi-task and work during emergency situations.
Ability to plan and conduct analytical studies and perform data analysis using data analytic tools/software.
Ability to read maps, blueprints, and create databases and reports.
Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
Must possess and maintain current a valid Motor Vehicle Operating License.
General office and lab conditions. Some field work required, which may involve hydrant opening.
May be required to report to work or provide advice on how to handle after-hour emergencies over the telephone.

Nice To Haves

Ability to generate maps using mapping software, such as ARCGIS or GIS Pro.

Responsibilities

Develops, implements, and coordinates technical and administrative procedures to support the drinking water quality monitoring programs.
Coordinates with departments within DC Water and Agencies such as Washington Aqueduct and Department of Health regarding water quality data, monitoring programs, equipment and supplies, public communication, among other drinking water quality related tasks.
Uses mapping software to analyze spatial data and design digital maps.
Develops plans for field technicians to flush and investigate valves related to water quality issues.
Recommends distribution system upgrades, such as water main replacement, installation of flushing stations, fire hydrant locations, and main shut-offs schedule within the system.
In emergencies, coordinates responses or actions to mitigate water quality issues, which may include communication to other Water Services managers, identification of affected areas, recommendation of isolation, and estimation of water quality effects.
Resolves water quality problems associated with system activities such as water main breaks, low pressure, and valve operations, as well as those associated with water supply and emerging contaminants. Response may include data analysis, internet research, GIS analysis, historic document or drawings research, and verbal and written communication.
Collects samples from hydrants and inside buildings throughout the District of Columbia using proper sampling methods and equipment. Coordinates sampling with customers and Washington Aqueduct.
Conducts field and bench analysis for water quality parameters such as pH, hardness, total chlorine, fluoride, conductivity, etc.
Operates DC Water vehicles as an essential function of the position.
Maintains vehicles and/or equipment in a clean and orderly manner. Reports any operating deficiencies to the appropriate personnel.
Incumbent is subject to being placed on call during hours and schedule identified by DC Water.
Performs other duties and projects as assigned at the discretion of the Manager, Water Quality.