WESA is seeking the ideal candidate to perform technical and professional duties related to planning, development, testing, implementation, administration, operations, and maintenance of SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) and DCS (distributed control system) systems including telemetry, instrumentation, motor control centers, process control systems, and numerous other types of electronic and electrical equipment and machinery associated with municipal pumping, storage and distribution of potable, reclaimed, and agricultural water systems, and municipal water and wastewater treatment plants; and performs related duties as assigned.

Operational Technology Specialist I: This is the entry-level classification in the Operational Technology Specialist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine support of SCADA, DCS, and associated equipment. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Operational Technology Specialist II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Operational Technology Specialist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Operational Technology Specialist III: This is the advanced journey-level classification in the Operational Technology Specialist series. Incumbents work under direction and exercise a high level of discretion and independent judgment in performing the full range duties in support of the District’s SCADA and DCS systems, instrumentation, and equipment. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products or services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements. 

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the typical functions of the job.

Positions at the Operational Technology Specialist I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

• Installs, programs, repairs, maintains, upgrades, and calibrates all components of SCADA/DCS systems, instrumentation, and equipment such as, but not limited to, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and variable frequency drives (VFDs); tests and verifies system and process functionality and efficiency.
• Monitors, identifies, troubleshoots, and resolves telemetry system and/or communication issues.
• Performs troubleshooting of electrical and electronic components.
• Sets up laptops and workstations; installs software and hardware, configures software, and troubleshoots hardware, software, and network issues to support SCADA and DCS functionality.
• Installs, maintains, and repairs backup power systems; conducts battery tests on backup systems.
• Installs, sets up and programs, maintains, and repairs flow meters at water treatment plants.
• Troubleshoots, repairs, programs, configures, tests, and performs maintenance on systemwide and server issues.
• Participates in implementation, upgrading, and testing of new systems, instrumentation, and/or equipment.
• Trains information technology, maintenance, and operations staff on safe and proper use of SCADA and DCS systems and equipment.
• Plans, schedules, directs, and inspects the work performed by contractors to ensure adherence to District and industry standards.
• Performs bench repairs at the component level in shop and field settings.
• Reviews and updates electrical and technical drawings, schematics, and related documentation.
• Maintains, reviews, and records a variety of reports, including daily activity reports, work orders, work requests, monthly statistical reports, and other reports and records as required.
• Requisitions necessary parts, tools, equipment, and supplies; maintains an inventory of supplies, tools, and equipment.
• Reads, understands, and ensures compliance with the District’s Safety Manual; attends safety meetings as required; reports all accidents, violations, or infractions to supervisors.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Operations Technology Specialist III (in addition to above):

• Participates in developing long-term plans, goals, and objectives to achieve District and department technology and business priorities.
• Provides comments for plan checks and reviews for engineering projects; meets with District project team, consultants, contractors, and vendors and provides feedback on SCADA and DCS system design, installation, configuration, and operational needs.
• Manages and administers various physical hardware and software applications related to SCADA, DCS, and information technology systems; verifies system and process functionality and efficiency; modifies and adds applications using vendor tools and software; implements and maintains strong cyber security.
• Coordinates and participates in the installation, programming, repair, maintenance, upgrade, and calibration of all components of SCADA/DCS systems, instrumentation, and equipment such as, but not limited to, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and variable frequency drives (VFDs); tests and verifies system and process functionality and efficiency.
• Reviews and updates electrical and technical drawings, schematics, and related documentation.

• Will act with integrity and in accordance with the accepted ethical standards of the district and applicable laws and regulations.
• Is an engaging team player, looking out for the common good for the organization.
• Is an effective communicator, with the ability to interact professionally with a wide range of audiences.
• Possesses an education level equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade; Proof of technical schooling, shop courses and electrical/electronics training to provide the desired knowledge. *Additional job-related education may be required to keep pace with updated technology and merit advancement.
• Will have 5 or more years, or the equivalent of full-time, on-the-job (hands-on) SCADA and instrumentation experience, preferable in domestic, reclaimed and agricultural water distribution, water or wastewater treatment           facilities, or another related field. *Experience varies within the series.
• Operational Technology Specialist I will possess a valid Grade 2 CWEA Electrical & Instrumentation Technologist Certification.
• Operational Technology Specialist II. III will possess or obtain within (12) months a valid Level I Certified Control Systems Technician Certification issued by the International Society of Automation (ISA).
• Must possess a valid, California Class C driver’s license, to be maintained throughout employment.

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