Backflow Prevention Technician

This position is responsible for performing technical duties associated with the Backflow Prevention Cross-Connection Control Program to prevent infiltration of contaminates and/or pollutants into the potable water supply. This position reports directly to the Meter Services Manager. Supervise crew in Foreman’s absence.

• Developments and revises the Backflow Prevention Cross-Connection Program;
• Inspects sites for illegal water connection or cross connections and eliminates it by using proper connections and backflow prevention devices;
• Eliminates uncontrolled interconnections to the City’s potable water supply/system; 
• Educates the public concerning the backflow prevention program, devices used and proper connections; corresponds with co-workers regarding the implementation of ordinances and changes in policies and procedures;
• Maintains records, drawings, computer data files and associated information regarding the Backflow Prevention Program;
• Inspects vehicles or containers to comply with backflow prevention ordinances and informs other of City permit policy for water usage;
• Oversee the testing and repair of water meter/backflows preventors and components by using industry standards and State Laws as a guideline.
• Establishes water meter / backflow testing schedule based on account  type, degree of exposure to contamination, and prior history of account.
• Prioritize and distribute job assignments to water meter repair Crews.Uses Water Meter/Backflow Testing devices and software to ensure the proper testing of devices for a particular usage. Recommends replacement / repair of devices based on this evaluation. Performs a survey of each residential account in the EPWA System to establish our degree of exposure to contamination to the water system. Makes recommendations regarding Water Meter/Backflow prevention requirements for each account;
• Review job assignments making sure jobs have been completed correctly;
• Assist in training of crews and technicians making sure repair and testing procedures are followed;
• Installs water meter/backflows to service accounts. All installations are to be per applicable EPA, EPD, and AWWA Regulations and Standards.
• Prioritize improvements to accounts with no improper backflow devices. Ensures installations of waterlines to accomplish these upgrades;
• Performs flushing of Water Distribution when assigned;
• Keeps detailed records of Backflow Device, Water Meter Testing, 
• Makes recommendations for Water Meter types for each particular application/use by reviewing plans of proposed developments;
• Reviews all work order reports for accuracy in Meter Repair Foreman’s absence;
• Performs other related duties as assigned

 High School diploma or equivalent; related technical degree or Associate’s degree preferred; five (5) to six (6) years of related experience; State of Georgia Backflow Prevention Certification. State of Georgia Water Distribution Certification must be obtained in five (5) month. Possession a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated; equivalent combination of education and experience.   

• Knowledge of Federal, State and City rules and regulations;
• Knowledge of cross-connections within a plumbing and piping system;
• Knowledge of the materials, methods, practices and procedures involved in installing a testing backflow prevention devices;
• Knowledge of on-going development of the water system;
• Knowledge of water meter functions;
• Knowledge of water safety regulations;
• Skill in written and oral communications;
• Skill in enforcing regulations with firmness and tact;
• Ability to interpret and work from technical sketches and blueprints;
• Ability to prepare reports;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other City employees, private contractors, government agencies, and the general public. 

Supervisor Controls:  The Superintendent assigns work in terms of general goals and policies.  Completed work is reviewed at employee’s request for accuracy and the nature and propriety of the final results.
Guidelines:  Guidelines include City codes, departmental policies and procedures, EPA Cross Connection Manual, Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection Control Manual, Georgia Plumbing Code, Manual of Cross-Connection Control and International Plumbing Code.  These guidelines require judgment in determining the processes by which the work is accomplished.
Complexity: The work consists of related administrative and technical support tasks.   The variety of tasks and frequents interruptions contribute to the complexity of the work.
Scope and Effect: The purpose of this position is to perform technical and administrative duties associated with implementing and developing a Backflow Prevention Program.   Successful performance helps ensure safe drinking water for the City.
Personal Contacts: Contacts are typically with co-workers, other City employees, developers, business owners, contractors, plumbers, vendors and the general public.
Purpose of Contacts: Contacts are typically to give or exchange information , resolve problems and provide services.
 
 
 
Physical Demands: Although some of the work is performed sitting at a desk with intermittent standing, walking and stooping, most is done outside and requires bending, crouching, climbing ladders and frequently lifting light and heavy objects.
Work Environment: Some work is performed in an office, but work is typically performed in outdoors on construction sites where the employee is exposed to inclement weather, dust, confined spaces, dirt, construction machinery and noise.
Supervisory Responsibility: Supervise crew in Foreman’s absence.

Salary : $41,600 - $45,000