Lick Observatory Lead Water System Operator

THIS POSITION IS BASED AT LICK OBSERVATORY, MT HAMILTON, CA, 19 miles southeast of San Jose on Highway 130 at 4,200 feet elevation.

Lick Observatory offers a friendly working environment with a diverse set of challenges, in addition to the incredible views of the surrounding areas.

HOW TO APPLY

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INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

Application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring unit for consideration. Materials submitted after the IRD will ONLY be forwarded at the request of the hiring unit. To ensure your application is routed for consideration, submit your materials before 11:59 p.m. on the IRD. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.

The IRD for this job is: 12-02-2024

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The University of California Observatories (UCO) is a Multi-Campus Research Unit (MRU) funded via the University of California Office of the President, Office of Research and headquartered on the UC Santa Cruz campus. UCO operates on behalf of astronomers, researchers, postdoctoral scholars, graduate and undergraduate students across the UC system who are engaged in research, education and training in optical and infrared astronomy. In addition to managing the technical, physical plant and public outreach operations of the Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton, California, UCO provides the scientific and administrative liaison to the shared Keck Observatory on Maunakea, Hawai'i and the international collaboration for the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Project. UCO comprises extensive scientific and technical staff and facilities at UC Santa Cruz and Lick Observatory as well as administrative and business services. The Lick Observatory telescopes are scheduled 363 days per year, weather permitting. Additionally, Lick hosts about 30,000 members of the public via its summer programs and casual visitors.

More information can be found at: https://www.lickobservatory.org/

JOB SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Facilities Supervisor, the Lead Water System Operator operates the Mt. Hamilton Community Water Treatment System ensuring a safe drinking water supply. Operation of the Mt. Hamilton Community Water Treatment System includes routine operational tasks, water sampling, interpretation of sample results, maintenance of records, and resolving issues related to sample results outside of established parameters.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $25.75 / Hourly.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Benefits Level Eligibility: This position is not eligible for benefits

Schedule Information:

• Part-time, Variable
• Percentage of Time: 20%, 8 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Mon-Sun, as needed
• Shift Includes: Days, Evenings, Weekends

Employee Classification: Limited appointment

Job End Date: 06-30-2026, with the possibility of extension

Work Location: Lick Observatory, Mt Hamilton, CA

Union Representation: TX - Technical

Job Code Classification: 009602 (LAB AST 3)

Travel: Never or Rarely

JOB DUTIES

90% - Lead Water System Monitor

• Takes measurements of residual chlorine at various points in the system; pH, temperature and turbidity of raw and finished water. Monitors and reports quantities of pumped, filtered, delivered and stored water. In the event measurements are outside stipulated ranges, communicates with the Facilities Supervisor about process failures, makes recommendations for correcting the problem and takes the necessary actions to restore chemical and turbidity readings to correct levels. Takes water samples and transports via vehicle, or arranges for transport of water system samples, to outside testing agencies.
• Performs all routine water treatment system operation tasks. Checks, stirs and refills chlorine (sodium hypochlorite) storage tank and check pump injection equipment. Sets and tests alarm levels on turbidimeter. Ensures that diversion valves operate to supply acceptably filtered water. Starts and stops spring pumps as required to maintain storage tanks at acceptable levels. Checks and records raw and finished water quantities in reserve and adjusts spring pump and filtration operation as required. Adjusts chlorination equipment to maintain concentrations within acceptable ranges for raw and finished water. Changes filters before exceeding maximum psi stated in operating permit. Performs weekly verification and quarterly calibration of turbidimeters. Maintains performance log, operations log, filter log and equipment maintenance log. Keeps a file of water complaints, resolutions, and follow-ups. Reports equipment malfunctions to the maintenance crew and verifies that repairs are completed. Maintains inventory of water treatment chemicals and sampling equipment and orders supplies as needed.
• Organizes and compiles Water Monitor field measurements and notes. Maintains accurate computerized records of the measurements using word processing and spreadsheet software. Prepares and submits water quality tests monthly and annual reports as required by Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. Stays abreast of new regulations or changes that need to be implemented as directed by California Department of Public Health.

10% - Training

• Trains and directs activities of water monitors (T1 Certified).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and/or equivalent training/experience.
• Record keeping skills, sufficient to compile reports into word processing and spreadsheet programs.
• Ability to read, understand and implement written instructions.
• Experience following proper procedures.
• Ability to use simple mathematical calibrations of water testing equipment.
• Ability to recognize significance of variations in test results and measurements and to exercise independent judgment.
• Strong mathematical skills.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to interact effectively and cooperatively with diverse individuals at all levels of the organization.
• Knowledge of the proper procedures for the safe handling of hazardous chemicals and materials.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Must possess and maintain required Water Treatment Operator Certification (T2), or obtain this certification within the first year of employment and maintain it thereafter.
• Must possess and maintain required Distribution Operator Certification (D1), or obtain this certification within the first year of employment and maintain it thereafter
• Must possess a valid license to drive in the state of California and be able to participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program.
• Ability to perform work in a rugged physical environment and inclement weather with challenging infrastructure requirements.
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders with or without accommodation.
• Ability to conduct outdoor site visits, including use of required personal protective equipment, as required to conduct investigations, inspections, or view work in place.
• The selected candidate will be required to work all scheduled hours on-site.
• Ability to work a variable schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work on-call.
• Ability to respond to emergencies after hours as necessary.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• Ability to work safely in areas where hazardous materials are present or stored.
• Ability to wear proper safety attire (long pants, closed-toe shoes, etc.) and personal protective equipment common in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to read signs and follow directions on labels that are written in English as well as ability to read and understand Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and the proper use of chemical compounds.
• Ability to travel within a defined regional or service area.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here.

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. UC Santa Cruz is committed to excellence through diversity and strives to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.

For the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination