Field Supervisor

JOB TITLE: Field Supervisor

OVERALL PURPOSE OF JOB

The principle function of this position is to manage the day-to-day operations of the cooperative’s distribution system. This includes operation and maintenance of the telemetry system, pump stations, reservoirs, chemical systems, valves and other equipment. The Field Supervisor is responsible for maintaining the system and recommending improvements. He or she is responsible for system reliability and water quality and is the primary customer service contact with cooperative customers regarding water issues. This position reports to the General Operations Manager and provides monthly status and reports as requested by the board.

 

MAIN TASKS/ACTIVITIES

  • The following tasks are either performed directly, or contracted, as deemed appropriate by the Field Supervisor and the board of directors.
  • Performs preventative maintenance on equipment and instruments to ensure efficient operation and accurate instrument readings.
  • Performs system monitoring necessary to efficiently operate the system and prevent system down time.
  • Maintains a water loss detection program. Addresses water loss as needed.
  • Addresses questions, concerns, or complaints from the membership and takes the appropriate measures to ensure a timely resolution.
  • Maintains complete and accurate records and log data of distribution and storage operations in accordance with prescribed guidelines as required.
  • Keeps immediate supervisor (as assigned by the board of directors) and designated others accurately informed concerning work progress.
  • Installs, maintains and repairs distribution lines.
  • Performs distribution line locates.
  • Maintains and repairs meters and valves.
  • Maintains a valve maintenance program.
  • Cleans, maintains, repairs and inspects reservoirs
  • Arranges for or performs traffic control during construction or repair.
  • Arranges for or performs road repair after construction.
  • Reads water meters monthly
  • Processes new water service applications. Approves or denies new service requests based on criteria set by the board of directors
  • Delivers delinquent account notices, shuts off water services as appropriate.
  • Attends monthly board meetings when requested the Operations Manager or the board of directors.
  • Maintains a cross connection program.
  • Maintains a valve maintenance program and flushing program
  • Maintains an inventory of parts on hand, as appropriate.
  • Cleans and maintains co-op tools and equipment.
  • Responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive customer inquiries and complaints. Addresses questions, concerns, or complaints from the membership and takes the appropriate measures to ensure a timely resolution
  • Communicates with the board of directors regarding system deficiencies, needed repairs and system improvement recommendations.
  • Creates and presents reports and proposals to the board of directors. Examples include system performance reports, system improvement recommendations, and should include price estimates, alternatives and justifications.
  • Provides required reports in a timely manner to government agencies, such as water quality reports.
  • Works with government agencies, the board of directors and assigned professionals to solve any potential violations.
  • Completes necessary training required to effectively operate, maintain and improve the system, and to keep necessary certifications current.
  • Ensures regulatory compliance in the distribution of potable water and maintenance of operational records
  • Operates and maintains the system in accordance with all safety principles and regulations. Brings any safety issues to the board if necessary to ensure they are fully addressed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must possess a minimum Water Distribution Operator II certificate.
  • Must possess a valid State Driver’s license and have a safe driving record.
  • Must possess a cross-connection inspector certification.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain an Occupational Safety and Health Administration Confined Space Entry Certificate.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain an Occupational Safety and Health Administration Competent Person Certificate.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain an Oregon Department of Transportation Flagger Certificate.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain an American Red Cross First Aid/CPR Certificate or equivalent.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Any combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying
  • Knowledge and experience necessary to successfully operate and manage a water system and thorough knowledge of water distribution and storage operations and processes.
  • Thorough knowledge of all relevant federal, State, and city laws, ordinances and standards, including EPA and OSHA regulations and standards.

 

SKILLS AND QUALITIES

  • Good customer relations and communication skills, including the ability to effectively and tactfully work with difficult and unreasonable customers.
  • Ability to perform demanding physical tasks in adverse weather conditions, and perform tasks requiring repetitive lifting, digging and kneeling on a daily basis.
  • Ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time with exposure to various weather conditions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, with a working knowledge of English grammar, spelling and usage, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions.
  • Ability to effectively operate related light and medium duty equipment, hand and power tools, and other equipment related to areas of assignment.
  • Ability to effectively monitor distribution operations
  • Ability to perform basic troubleshooting functions and conduct routine mechanical repairs.
  • Ability to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
  • Ability to use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions according to written specifications and/or oral instructions.
  • Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines.
  • Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology.
  • Ability to operate or quickly learn to operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasks.
  • Ability to operate or quickly learn to operate a personal computer; specific ability to write documents in Microsoft Word and create spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel.
  • Ability to create and present reports and proposals for the board of directors.
  • Ability to provide on-call duty and call-out as necessary. Water distribution functions are a 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, operation. Incumbents may work in excess of 40 hours a week and/or work irregular hours, particularly during emergency situations.