Water System Planner (SA2)

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an individual with experience in water transmission and distribution systems planning/engineering and knowledge in earthquake hazards and utility infrastructure seismic resilience to join its Drinking Water Line of Business Transmission & Distribution System Planning Section. The SPU Transmission & Distribution Systems Planning Section consists of planning and engineering professionals tasked with strategic and tactical planning, asset management, and CIP program development and oversight for the Water system transmission & distribution assets.

 

The successful candidate will become a key member of a planning team for SPU’s water transmission and distribution system assets (water mains, pipelines, tanks, reservoirs, and pump stations) and will be involved with carrying out project planning activities including engineering assessments and project alternatives development, options analysis, and securing project approvals/funding. They will also be involved with overseeing emergency projects, developing asset management plans, and managing water infrastructure rehabilitation and capital improvement programs. There will be a focused opportunity to work on and learn SPU’s transmission pipeline system and SPU’s water system seismic upgrade program.  

 

About Seattle Public Utilities (SPU): Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

 

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), please visit: 

• SPU Workplace Expectations
• Strategic Business Plan

 

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

 

Why join us?  

We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including: 

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment 
• Generous benefits package  
• Free public transportation options 
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions 
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

• Carry out water system planning and analysis to identify & prioritize critical upgrade work to be accomplished in SPU's water transmission and distribution systems. Develop project alternatives, carry out options analysis, identify preferred alternatives, develop project scopes and budgets and secure project approvals.  Develop familiarity with the water transmission system and over time become a subject matter expert on SPU's water pipelines and transmission system assets. Assist in problem solving for issues that develop on the transmission system including major infrastructure failures, and support / oversee planning for major internal SPU transmission system repair projects. Work on implementing the recommendations of SPU's 2018 water system seismic study including prioritizing and carrying out water system seismic resiliency capital improvement projects. provide direction for seismic-related pipe replacement decisions and use of earthquake resistant pipes and manage seismic upgrade planning studies. Develop and manage capital programs and capital program budgets. Work collaboratively with internal business partners to develop and implement asset management plans for water transmission and distribution system assets including concrete reservoirs and steel storage tanks, pipes and appurtenances, meters, and pump stations. Develop RFPs, lead consultant selection processes and negotiate and manage consultant contracts for planning, analysis/ assessments, and development of capital project options.

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

Experience: Five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in water and or wastewater utility planning and engineering or closely related field.

 

Education: Bachelor's Degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, or closely related field.

 

Experience and Education Equivalency: Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability to the minimum education and experience requirements. 

 

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

• Work is performed in a normal City work/office environment and in the field.
• Field assignments entail exposure to all types of weather, traffic, hazardous/toxic substances, and work in or near construction sites. 

 

 

License, Certification and Other Requirements: At the time of appointment must hold a valid Washington State Driver License.

 

You will be most successful in this role if you possess one or more of the following:

 

• Good working knowledge of water system infrastructure and components and water system operations Experience in water and wastewater system planning, design, construction, and utility asset management  Water system planning/engineering experience specific to water transmission and distribution system pipelines, pump stations, storage tanks & reservoirs and related appurtenances Experience in utility infrastructure earthquake planning/engineering including earthquake resistant pipe systems, earthquake hazards, seismic risk assessments of water system infrastructure and seismic resiliency upgrade projects. Knowledge and familiarity with ArcView and ArcGIS applications  Experience administering consultant contracts, including preparing scopes of work/budgets, reviewing study plans, technical reports, and submittals from consultants/contractors. The ability to write clear and concise technical reports in a timely manner. Demonstrated ability to successfully work well in a team environment, delivering complex multiyear projects.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

 

Most work is performed in a normal City work/office environment; however, due to the ongoing pandemic and Covid-19 state and local restrictions, hybrid telework/office/field assignment work will be available consistent with HR guidelines, and as circumstances dictate. We continue to seek guidance from local public health agencies and will proceed accordingly with any necessary changed or needs regarding "workplace location" expectations.

 

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

 

 

Background: This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

 

 

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. 

 

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/.