Operational Technology Specialist I/II/III

Job Description:

Operational Technology Specialist I/II/III

Description

The Position:

Summary:

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under immediate (Operational Technology Specialist I) to general supervision (Operational Technology Specialist II), to direction (Operational Technology Specialist III), performs 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.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

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.

Positions in the Operational Technology Specialist I-II-III class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level and III-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level and II-level, respectively. Progression to the II-level and III-level is dependent on satisfactory work performance, the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications, and management approval for progression to the II-level and III-level.

Immediate Impact: The successful candidate will be given the following objectives upon hire:

• Within 3 months, demonstrate ability to troubleshoot issues related to TCP equipment.
• Within 6 months, demonstrate the ability to install radios and troubleshoot communication issues.
• Within 9 months, understand and configure basic control strategies within Onsite software.
• Within 12 months, demonstrate the ability to modify, create and edit graphics screens within OnSite (SCADA) or Ovation (DCS) software .

The Ideal Candidate:

• Possesses an education level equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by technical training, shop courses, and/or electrical /electronic coursework training.
• Must possess a valid, California Class C driver's license, to be maintained throughout employment.
• 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.

Operational Technology Specialist I:

• One (1) year of experience performing work related to supporting operations technology systems, instrumentation, and equipment.
• Possess and maintain, a valid Grade 2 CWEA Electrical & Instrumentation Technologist Certification

Operational Technology Specialist II:

• Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience maintaining and repairing SCADA/DCS systems, instrumentation, and equipment in domestic, reclaimed, and agricultural waste distribution, water or wastewater treatment facilities, or similar facilities or equivalent and related responsibilities to experience as a Operational Technology Specialist I.
• Possess or obtain within (12) twelve months a valid Level I Certified Control Systems Technician Certification issued by International Society of Automation (ISA).

Operational Technology Specialist III:

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience maintaining and repairing SCADA/DCS systems, instrumentation, and equipment in domestic, reclaimed, and agricultural waste distribution, water or wastewater treatment facilities, or similar facilities or equivalent and related responsibilities to experience as a Operational Technology Specialist II.
• Possess or obtain within (12) twelve months a valid Level I Certified Control Systems Technician Certification issued by International Society of Automation (ISA).

Responsibilities:

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

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.

Compensation:

• Medical, dental, vision, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, a life insurance policy equal to two times the annual salary for the employee and a $1,000.00 policy for eligible dependents. Benefits become effective on the first of the month following a 30-day waiting period and the Authority contributes 90% of the cost of such insurance.
• CalPERS Retirement is provided using the 2.7 at age 55 formula for “Classic” Members. Retirement is provided using the 2% at age 62 formula for “New/PEPRA” Members.
• Three deferred compensation plans to which an employee may voluntarily contribute up to $23,500 per year. The Authority does not contribute to these plans.
• Employees accrue vacation at the rate of 3.08 hours per t wo-week pay period f or the first 1 year of employment; 3.38 hours for years 1-2; 4.62 hours for years 3-4; 6.16 hours for years 5-9; 6.47 hours for years 10-12, 6.77 hours for years 13-19, and 7.0 for 20+ years of service.
• Twelve (12) paid holidays per year. Upon employment with WESA for one (1) year, employees also receive one (1) floating holiday annually.
• S ick leave is accrued at a rate of 3.70 hours per bi-weekly pay period for a total of 96.20 hours per year with unlimited accumulation.
  
• Additional benefits available include: 9/80 work schedule, Direct Deposit, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance, Certification Reimbursement Program, Certification Bonus Program, Onsite Wellness Center, and two credit unions.

Our Mission: To manage our natural resources to provide reliable, cost efficient and high quality water and wastewater services for the communities we serve, while promoting conservation, environmental responsibility, educations, community interaction, ethical behavior and recognizing employees as highly valuable assets.

The Water Employee Services Authority: WESA was established as a joint powers authority between the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and Meeks & Daley Water Company. As a joint powers authority, WESA provides professional water and wastewater services to both agencies. WESA is committed to:

• Professionalism-Demonstrating competency while maintaining a professional demeanor and upholding a reputation for expertise, efficiency, and high quality through delivery of information, services, and products.
• Enthusiasm-Possessing a strong drive for learning, innovation, forward thinking, and the overall desire to do your job well.
• Transparency-Demonstrating high moral standards in principles, intentions and actions; conduct that encourages loyalty, integrity, and trust.
• Inclusiveness-Promoting respect and teamwork through communication and appreciation for all.
• Stewardship-Taking ownership and responsibility for assigned responsibilities, while demonstrating a proactive, positive willingness to serve.

The Application Process: If you are interested in this opportunity, submit a completed WESA employment application online at www.wesawater.com. Resumes and certifications may be included, but will not be accepted in lieu of a completed employment application. In order to be considered, applications must be received no later than 5:30pm, Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

For questions and inquiries, please contact: Jenielle Ollerton: jollerton@evmwd.net or (951) 674-3146 ext. 8244.

Closing Date/Time: 2025-05-13

Salary:

8,169.67 - 13,061.73