Water/Wastewater Backflow Prevention Technician

JOB SUMMARY --------------- Become part of a team that thrives on Professionalism, Innovation, Customer Experience, Integrity, and Teamwork — the values that guide how we serve our community. The W/WW Backflow Prevention Technician supports the City’s Backflow, CSI, and Cross\-Connection Program by ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements and protecting public health. The role conducts on\-site cross\-connection surveys, system hazard inspections, and irrigation plan reviews to prevent backflow risks and maintain safe water quality. It also provides public education on cross\-connection control and prepares required documentation for regulatory agencies. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS ----------------------- The following list highlights the main responsibilities of this position. While it covers the core tasks, it may not include every duty that could be assigned. Employees may be asked to take on other responsibilities as needed to support the team and department. Provides education and training to employees, contractors, engineers, inspectors, and the public on backflow prevention and cross\-connection control and maintains related instructional materials. Conducts cross\-connection surveys and inspections of the City’s water system at residential and commercial sites to assess backflow prevention needs, support customer compliance with City ordinances, and evaluate irrigation systems, secondary water sources, and related system conditions. Administers the City’s cross\-connection control and backflow prevention program by monitoring device installation and testing, maintaining records, overseeing tester compliance and equipment tracking, and managing GIS data for all assemblies. Tests and repairs City\-owned backflow prevention devices to ensure proper function and regulatory compliance. Performs residential and commercial plan reviews for compliance with City, state, and federal codes, identifying non\-compliance issues and ensuring irrigation and water distribution designs meet cross\-connection control requirements. Guides contractors and the public on irrigation requirements, conducts related field inspections, and responds to technical inquiries. Supports enforcement of applicable water, wastewater, irrigation, plumbing, and fire codes by investigating reports, documenting violations, and communicating compliance requirements. Participates in required training, safety meetings, and state agency programs; completes other related duties as assigned; and maintains required certifications, including Backflow Tester and Confined Space Entry. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS \& PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS ---------------------------------------------------- MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS High school diploma or equivalent. Three (3\) years of Water/Wastewater maintenance experience. A Class C Water Distribution License required within four (4\) years of employment. Irrigation System Inspector license is required within two (2\) years of employment. Customer Service Inspection License required within (2\) years of employment. Must possess, or have the ability to obtain, a valid Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving record. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS A Class C Water Distribution License. Customer Service Inspection License. Two (2\) years or college or technical training in plumbing, blueprint reading, architecture or related field is desirable. COMPETENCIES AND ENVIRONMENT -------------------------------- KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of state and federal regulations, municipal ordinances, and building, plumbing, and fire codes relevant to backflow prevention and cross\-connection control. Knowledge of underground and non\-visible piping configurations, secondary water sources, and water system protection principles. Skill in preparing inspection records, training materials, and presentations for diverse audiences. Skill in verbal and written communication to effectively interact with City staff, contractors, engineers, irrigators, plumbers, and the public. Skill in operating computers and using electronic systems, software, and web\-based platforms. Ability to enforce ordinances and state regulations impartially, tactfully, and firmly. Ability to support administration of the City’s water system protection program, including backflow prevention and cross\-connection control activities. PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position requires the ability to lift up to 70 pounds occasionally. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, reaching, fine dexterity, vision, hearing, talking and foot controls frequently; pushing/pulling, handling and kneeling occasionally; lifting, carrying, crouching, crawling, bending, twisting, climbing and balancing rarely. WORK ENVIRONMENT Working conditions involve exposure to variable and/or extreme weather conditions, uneven terrain, wildlife, confined spaces, gases, infectious diseases, and equipment located at inspection sites. Will also encounter confrontational and irate customers. Must have the ability to diffuse irate customers. This is a safety sensitive position. The City of San Marcos offers its employees a broad range of benefits to enhance their personal and occupational lives. We are committed to a total rewards strategy that provides employees with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and an environment that supports a healthy work/life balance. 2023 Benefits Guide BENEFITS Medical, Dental \& Vision Coverage United Healthcare + Choice Plus PPO Plan + Prescription Drug Plan + Wellness Initiatives + Virtual Doctor Visits 24/7 + Dental Plan Davis Vision Insurance + Base Vision Plan + Premium Vision Plan + Laser Vision Correction discounts Retirement Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) Mission Square Retirement Corporation \- optional 457\-deferred compensation plan \& Roth IRA ADDITIONAL BENEFITS Flexible Spending Accounts City paid Life and AD\&D Insurance Voluntary Life, AD\&D and Long Term Disability insurance Employee Assistance Program Vacation Sick Leave Holidays Longevity Pay Tuition Reimbursement Activity Center Membership Direct Deposit The City of San Marcos strives to provide employees with an opportunity for a flexible and positive work/life balance. Employees in eligible positions are offered remote telework options of up to two days per week or 40% of an employee's scheduled work hours. Remote telework eligibility will be determined by department directors to ensure the City provides quality services.*