HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-28-18 Civil Service Commission Meeting AgendaCITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES / CIVIL SERVICE
Telephone: 607 / 274-6539 Fax: 607 / 274-6574
CITY OF ITHACA
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Regular Meeting
Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Time: 11:30 am
Location: City Hall, large 2nd floor conference room
AGENDA
Approval of Minutes
New Business
1. Update of Job Description: Planner
2. New Position Duties Statement: Planning – Planner (2 positions)
3. Request to Waive Residency Requirement: all Planner titles
4. Update of Job Description and Change in Title: Working Supervisor – Building and
Grounds to Working Supervisor – Building Services
5. Authorization to Direct Public Hearing
6. New Position Duties Statement: DPW – Working Supervisor – Building Services
7. Addition of Driver License Requirement to Wastewater Treatment Facility
Positions
8. Revision of Job Description and Minimum Qualifications: Director of Parking
9. Update of Job Description, including Minimum Qualifications and Special
Requirements: Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator
10. Update of Job Description, including Minimum Qualifications and Special
Requirements: Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator
11. New Position Duties Statement: DPW – Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant
Operator
12. Request to Expand Residency Requirement: Forestry Technician (possible item)
13. Approval of Annual Report
Continuing Business
1. Approval of Rosters of Candidates for Examination
2. Establishment of Eligible Lists
3. Approval of Personnel Transactions
Out of consideration for the health of other individuals, please try to refrain from using
perfume/cologne and other scented personal care products at City of Ithaca meetings. Thank
you for your cooperation and understanding.
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 04/06/05, 02/28/18
PLANNER
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for developing,
implementing and managing municipal planning projects. The incumbent performs a variety of
professional planning activities and services either as project manager or support staff for planning
projects. The incumbent also conducts multifaceted research and analysis, community outreach,
provides technical advice to municipal officials, and prepares applications for and administers grant
funds. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of Planning and
Development with considerable latitude allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in the
performance of the work. Supervision may be exercised over student interns. Does related work as
required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Researches, collects and analyzes planning related data including data relative to land use
regulations, design controls, historic preservation, neighborhood analysis, demographic
surveys, parking and transportation, and planning and environmental studies, and prepares
reports on research, investigation and analysis;
Acts as project manager or support staff on planning and development projects by coordinating and
directing activities such as data collection and analysis, design, approvals and permits, right-
of-way acquisition, and project implementation;
Participates in the dDesigns, preparationes and provides oversight of the preparation of a variety
of planning studies, statistics, graphs, plans, designs, charts, records and reports;
Plans and conducts field studies and surveys to collect demographic and other related planning
data;
Compiles, and analyzes and applies relevant data on issues related to land use, development,
economics, public and private finance, current demographics characteristics, population
growth, economic trends, business activities, residential and other development and
planning projects; and strategic government planning;
Prepares a variety of maps, charts, advertisements and other graphics required in support of
planning projects;
Collects information, and prepares materials documents for, and attends meetings of Common
Council, the Planning and Development Board, the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Board of
Public Works, and other City boards and committees, including planning reports, site plan
reviews, zoning appeals, community outreach, and economic development activities;
Assists in defining and maintaining data in the City's electronic database in Geographic Information
Systems (GIS);
Collects, tabulates and analyzes data for use in connection with census statistics and population
data;
Determines feasibility, life cycle costing and cost benefit analyses of alternative planning and
development projects;
Researches and prepares applications for grants from federal, state or regional programs and
administers grant funds;
Participates in studies involving research, investigation, and analysis of sociological, economic, and
environmental factors related to urban, regional and community planning;
Develops plans for large scale proposals involving landscape and architectural design aspects for
the City;
Assists in the dDesigns and implementation of conducts community outreach activities for
planning projects;
Planner
Page 2
Typical Work Activities - continued
Solicits, evaluates, prepares and administers professional services agreements with consultants or
contractors, for planning and development contracts; monitors professional consultant
and contractor work, and manages project expenditures, budget, and fund recovery;
Prepares, manages and administers contracts for assigned capital projects, including preparing bid
specifications, reviewing bids, evaluating and recommending contractors, coordinating and
scheduling design and construction work, monitoring professional consultant and contractor
work, and managing project expenditures, budget and fund recovery;
Prepares complex spreadsheet analyses and financial project proformas;
Attends and participates in informational meetings and conferences with municipal officials,
providing technical assistance and guidance with respect to planning projects and design;
Supervises, trains and mentors interns and other student or volunteer staff;
Performs miscellaneous office work and maintains written and digital records of planning
division activities.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Good knowledge of the principles, methods, techniques and terminology used in municipal planning;
good knowledge of the federal, state and local laws, policies and programs related to land use
planning, transportation planning, economic development and community development; good
knowledge of personal computing for analysis of data and statistics; good knowledge of the
business and economic conditions of the region; good knowledge of the techniques used to gather
data for statistical and analyses and reports; good knowledge of the principles and practices of
mapping and graphic visual methods as applied to planning; good knowledge of the principles and
practices in administering and monitoring grant funds; ability to lead the work of others on projects
by providing guidance and oversight of their activities as well as assigning and reviewing their work;
ability to plan, coordinate and implement planning and development projects; ability to analyze
factual data and statistics and prepare graphs, diagrams, and reports effectively; ability to
understand, interpret and analyze complex oral and detailed written material and quantitative data;
ability to conduct field studies and research projects in development of community planning projects;
ability to use a personal computer to analyze data and statistics; ability to use geographic
information systems; ability to produce visual materials in support of planning projects; ability
to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to develop and maintain effective
working relationships with others; ability to organize and implement a project or study from concept
to completion; ability to successfully work with and serve a diverse local community; physical
condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either:
(a) Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New
York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Master’s degree in planning or a closely
related field with similar course curriculum; or
(b) Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New
York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s degree in planning,
architecture, public administration, engineering, environmental studies or a related field and
one (1) year of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid and/or volunteer equivalent, in
municipal, community or regional planning; or
(c) An equivalent combination or training and experience as defined by limits of (a) and (b).
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Non-Competitive
Adopted: 04/06/05
Revised: 09/15/10, 02/28/18
Title changed from Working Supervisor – Building and Grounds to Working Supervisor –
Building Services: 02/28/18
WORKING SUPERVISOR – BUILDING SERVICES AND GROUNDS
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for supervising
and participating in the maintenance and repair of municipal buildings and grounds and other
property. The incumbent plans and oversees the details of assigned work projects and supervises
building services and grounds crews and work site activities. The incumbent also directly
participates in project work activities, performing skilled and semi-skilled work in one or more of the
building trades. This position differs from that of a Building Maintenance Mechanic in that a Working
Supervisor – Building Services has regular supervision of a building services and grounds crew,
plans out assigned public works projects, and has final responsibility for the successful, efficient,
cost-effective, and timely completion of assigned projects. The work is performed under the
general supervision of the Building Maintenance and Solid Waste Supervisor, a higher-level
public works supervisor with leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in carrying
out the details of the work. Supervision is exercised over the work of Building Maintenance
Mechanics, Building and Grounds Maintenance Workers, Custodial Workers and Laborers. The
position requires the ability to prioritize work activities and use the City’s resources as
economically and efficiently as possible. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Supervises and participates in the maintenance and repair of municipal buildings and other property
including the installation of, and minor repairs to, of electrical wiring and equipment; the
cleaning and repair of boilers, pumps, and heaters; operation and maintenance of fire
alarm systems, fire sprinkler systems, and fire suppression systems; the building and/or
installation of cabinets, shelves, doors, paneling and flooring; the installation and repair of
water lines and plumbing fixtures; the repair of walls and roofs; and brick and concrete work
as required;
Participates in various code compliance inspections (boilers, building, elevators, fire alarm
systems, fire department, fire sprinkler systems, fire suppression systems, etc.) and
performs follow-up work to abate any violations;
Maintains the work order system and uses various computer software to track work activities
and expenses;
Utilizes and interprets building plans, specifications, operations and maintenance manuals,
and filing systems;
Evaluates assigned building and grounds maintenance or repair projects, selects best approach for
completing project, assigns work activities to crew and instructs crew as needed;
Oversees Observes the work performed and inspects its final completion in order to ensure safety,
effectiveness and efficiency;
Consults with a higher-level public works supervisor regarding the scope, scheduling and progress
of work assigned;
Performs skilled and semi-skilled building maintenance and repair work;
Coordinates project work with subcontractors, other work crews, etc;
Creates and maintains basic detailed records and reports relative to the work performed;
Ensures that the crew is equipped with the appropriate tools, materials and equipment;
Working Supervisor – Building Services and Grounds
Page 2
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES – continued
Trains employees regarding building services and grounds maintenance and repair techniques,
and safety policies and procedures;
Ensures the security of tools, equipment and materials;
Operates motor equipment, tools and machinery related to the work assigned;
May perform manual labor activities relative to the work performed including loading, unloading and
moving materials and supplies, lifting materials and equipment, grounds maintenance,
fertilizer bags, and snow removal raking and shoveling.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Good knowledge of the common practices, tools, terminology and safety precautions associated
with modern building maintenance and repair and groundskeeping; good knowledge of the operation
and maintenance of heating, and ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment; good
knowledge of City ordinances related to building maintenance and repair and groundskeeping; good
knowledge of municipal geography and building configuration; ability to assign, lay-out and
oversee the work of others; ability to prioritize work activities and use the City’s resources as
economically and efficiently as possible; ability to perform skilled and semi-skilled tasks in one or
more of the standard building trades; ability to safely and effectively use tools and operate
equipment related to building services and grounds maintenance and repair; ability to organize and
maintain accurate records and files; ability to proficiently use a variety of software, including
work order system, building maintenance systems, spreadsheets, word processing
programs, databases, and communication systems; ability to communicate effectively, both
orally and in writing; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; ability to
successfully work with and serve a diverse local community; good attention to detail; physical
condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Four (4) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in building construction,
maintenance or and repair. Such experience must have been at the level of skilled or semi-skilled
labor.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid driver license appropriate to the vehicles or
equipment operated. Said license must be maintained for the duration of employment.
LEGAL NOTICE
CITY OF ITHACA CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to Section 20 of the New York State Civil Service Law, the City of Ithaca Civil Service
Commission will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 at 11:30 am in the 2nd
floor conference room, City Hall, 108 East Green Street, Ithaca NY, 14850, for the purpose of
amending the City of Ithaca Civil Service Rules by adding the position of Working Supervisor –
Building Services to the non-competitive class and by deleting the position of Working
Supervisor – Building and Grounds from the non-competitive class.
All interested parties and citizens for or against the adoption of these changes to the Rules are
invited to attend and be heard.
Valerie W. Saul
Deputy Director of Human Resources
March 5, 6, 7, 2018
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 10/03/12
Revised: 02/28/18
DIRECTOR OF PARKING
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for planning,
managing, supervising and directing the City’s entire parking system, including municipal parking
garages, off-street parking lots, on-street paid parking and pay stations. The work also involves
managing and supervising operation and maintenance activities of the downtown Ithaca
Commons outdoor pedestrian mall. The Director of Parking oversees both the operation and
enforcement functions of the parking system, including the daily operation of parking garages and
surface lots; the collection, repair and installation of parking meters and pay stations; and parking
enforcement functions and activities. The Director of Parking is also responsible for developing and
recommending parking policies and programs for the City, and for implementing them and
communicating them to the public after their adoption. The Director of Parking monitors and analyzes
parking revenues, expenses and usage patterns, and recommends changes to parking rates,
programs and regulations. The Director of Parking also manages the cleaning and general
maintenance of the Ithaca Commons, and support of activities on the Ithaca Commons. The
work is performed under the general supervision of the Superintendent of Public Works with
considerable leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in the performance of the work.
Supervision is exercised over the work of supervisory staff, parking lot attendants, community service
officers, and maintenance staff. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Develops and implements long-range goals, short-term objectives, policies, procedures, and priorities
for the management of the City’s parking system;
Meets with government officials, business owners and citizen groups regarding parking programs,
policies and related matters;
Develops and establishes policies and procedures for the maintenance, installation, removal, repair
and collection of parking meters and pay stations located throughout the City;
Oversees the preparation of the Division’s operating budget and, in conjunction with the Engineering
Division, recommends long-term capital improvements for parking garages, surface lots, and
on-street pay equipment, and features associated with the Ithaca Commons;
Manages and coordinates the activities of the Commons Maintenance, Parking Operations, and
Parking Enforcement sections;
Supervises the operation of parking facilities, including parking garages, off-street parking lots, on-
street paid parking and pay stations;
Supervises, directs and evaluates job performance of subordinate employees;
Works cooperatively and coordinates operations with other City departments involved in activities
related to parking and the Ithaca Commons;
Collects, summarizes and analyzes data, including revenues, expenses and usage patterns, and
prepares reports on operations and effectiveness of on-street and off-street parking assets;
Monitors existing and recommends new revenue control equipment and other parking equipment and
management techniques for both on-street and off-street parking;
Reviews rate and fine structures in garages, surface lots, meters and pay stations, and prepares
recommendations for optimization of current parking rates to the Board of Public Works for
rate changes;
Represents the City at a variety of meetings and on a variety of committees on matters related to
parking and Commons operation and maintenance.
Director of Parking
Page 2
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Thorough knowledge of best practices, procedures, technology and equipment used in the
management, operation and maintenance of large municipal parking facilities, structures and on-street
parking equipment; thorough knowledge of the modern methods of enforcing parking control
regulations and ordinances; thorough knowledge of City ordinances and New York State vehicle and
traffic laws pertaining to parking and parking violations; good knowledge of hardware and software for
revenue and access control for on and off street parking operations; good knowledge of
maintenance activities for urban public spaces; working knowledge of City budgetary procedures;
ability to supervise, direct and evaluate the work of others; ability to establish and maintain effective
working relationships with others; ability to understand and interpret complex written material; ability
to collect, analyze and interpret financial and statistical data; ability to prepare narrative and statistical
reports; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to develop, propose,
analyze, communicate, and implement new policies, procedures, and programs; physical
condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Graduation from a New York State registered or regionally accredited college or university with a
Bachelor’s Degree in public administration, business administration, management, engineering,
architecture, municipal or regional planning, urban planning, or a closely related field with
similar course curriculum and four (4) two (2) years of full-time paid supervisory experience, or its
part-time paid equivalent, in the management of public works programs or projects, a high
volume parking operation; at least two (2) years of which must have been in a supervisory
capacity;
B. Graduation from a New York State registered or regionally accredited college or university with a
Bachelor’s Degree and four (4) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent,
in the management of a high volume parking operation, at least two (2) years of which must have
been in a supervisory capacity; or
C. Graduation from a New York State registered or regionally accredited two-year college with an
Associate’s Degree in public administration, business administration, management, engineering,
architecture, municipal or regional planning, urban planning, or a closely related field with
similar course curriculum and six (6) four (4) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time
paid equivalent, in the management of public works programs or projects, a high volume
parking operation; at least two (2) years of which must have been in a supervisory capacity;
D. Graduation from a New York State registered or regionally accredited two-year college with an
Associate’s Degree and six (6) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent,
in the management of a high volume parking operation, at least two (2) years of which must have
been in a supervisory capacity; or
E. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B), (C)
and (D) above. Please note that this means that the minimum academic requirement is at least
an Associate’s Degree, and the minimum experiential requirement is at least four (4) two (2) years
of supervisory experience in public works program or project management parking operations
management, at least two (2) years of which must have been supervisory experience.
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 02/09/82
Revised: 06/13/95, 05/19/97, 02/28/18
ASSISTANT CHIEF WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR (TYPE IA PLANT)
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a supervisory and technical position which
involves assisting the Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator in the actual safe and efficient operation
and maintenance of a Type IA Water Treatment Plant containing facilities for filtration with pretreatment
or a chemical softening process, and including ancillary facilities such as an intake screen
cleaning system, process waste facilities with thickeners and presses, booster chlorination
systems, and water pumping stations. The incumbent assists the Chief Operator in scheduling
and assigning operators to work activities and shifts; training and supervising operators,
trainees, and other plant employees; developing, implementing and evaluating plant programs;
and overseeing the conduct of laboratory tests and other analyses. The work is performed
under the gGeneral supervision of is received from the Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator, with
considerable leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in planning and carrying out
the details of the work, organizing and directing the work methods and in dealing with emergency
situations conditions. Direct supervision is exercised over operators, trainees, laboratory personnel,
truck drivers and maintenance staff. workers. The Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator
acts for and in place of the Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator in the Chief Operator's
absence or as assigned. The Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator must possess the
required certificate for a Type IA plant which he or she supervises in accordance with the provisions of
the Sanitary Code for "Operator" in Section 5-4.2. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Assists in supervising and directing the operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant, and
pumping stations, intake facilities and waste handling facilities, to ensure assure the most
efficient and economical use of equipment, supplies, and personnel, and budgeted funds;
Schedules, assigns and oversees the work of operators, trainees, laboratory staff and other
plant personnel;
Trains and instructs plant operators, trainees and other plant personnel;
Makes lists for building and grounds maintenance activities at plant and ancillary facilities,
general plant housekeeping and assigns work accordingly;
Makes daily inspection of plant, and plant equipment and processes; machinery; makes periodic
inspections of ancillary facilities as appropriate;
Prepares and directs the assignment of personnel to shift operations;
Issues or assists in issuing instructions for the regulation of chemical feed systems at the water
treatment plant and ancillary facilities; chlorinators and chemical feeders;
Oversees the routine scheduling for the cleaning of the sedimentation basins, missing
chambers, plant filtration cleaning systems, waste neutralization system, thickener
cleaning, screw press cleaning, chemical tank cleanings, and similar and related work;
Assists or schedules and supervises the cleaning and washing of filters;
Assists in supervising and instructing operators, trainees, maintenance staff, other DPW staff working
on site, and other subordinate employees;
Assists with working with onsite contractors engaged in maintenance activities, plant upgrades,
plant or water quality studies, process studies, etc.;
May conduct periodic examinations of plant equipment and may direct necessary repairs and
maintenance;
Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator (Type IA Plant)
Page 2
Typical Work Activities - continued
Assists in maintaining inventory of supplies, chemicals, and equipment, and parts, including
requisitioning and ordering the identified items;
Requisitions materials;
Assists in, and directs, the collection of data and documentation of activities for daily, weekly,
monthly and annual reports;
Maintains records and prepares periodic reports on the operation of the plant and ancillary facilities;
Keeps current on regulations that govern reporting requirements, training requirements,
laboratory sampling and analysis, and safety;
Assists Chief Operator with the preparation of the annual operating budget and monitors budget
expenditures for approved budget;
May Aacts for and in place of the Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator as assigned;
May direct and assist in conducting special studies for improvement of water quality, and plant
operations, and related processes;
May provide assistance to persons with disabilities in reaching less accessible areas of City facilities.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Thorough Good knowledge of the practices used and equipment required in the operation and
maintenance of a Type IA Water Treatment Plant containing facilities for filtration with pretreatment or a
chemical softening process; thorough knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations
applicable to water treatment; thorough good knowledge of the operations of a modern water
treatment plant; good knowledge of the processes, equipment, tools and terminology used in the
maintenance and repair of water treatment plants and ancillary facilities; good knowledge of the
principles and practices of supervision; good knowledge of the principles and applications of physics,
chemistry and bacteriology as they relate to water purification; good knowledge of plant safety
regulations and procedures; working knowledge of relevant computer systems, software, office
software, radio systems and SCADA; ability to plan and supervise the work of others; ability to
understand and interpret carry out complex oral instructions and written instructions directions;
ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain
effective working relationships with others; ability to supervise the operation and repair of pumps,
valves and related mechanical and electrical equipment; ability to analyze and organize data and
prepare records and reports; ability to make routine laboratory and field tests for control of plant and
ancillary facility operations; ability to successfully work with and serve a diverse local community;
mechanical aptitude, alertness and dependability; physical condition commensurate with the demands
of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Eengineering, Nnatural science Resource
Management or a closely related field with similar course curriculum, and one (1) year of full-
time paid satisfactory experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in with the actual operation of
a Type IA water treatment plant with facilities for filtration with pretreatment, or chemical softening,
or any similar process and completion of the appropriate level water treatment plant operator
courses in accordance with the provisions of the Sanitary Code for "Operator" in Section 5-4.2; or
Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator (Type IA Plant)
Page 3
Minimum Qualifications - continued:
B. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered two year college with an
Associate's Degree in Water/Wastewater Technology, Environmental Science, Engineering
Technology, physical sciences, chemistry, biological sciences, life sciences or a closely
related field with similar course curriculum, applied science with major emphasis in Public
Health or Environmental Health, including a course in water operations and three (3) years of full-
time paid satisfactory experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in with the actual operation of
a Type IA water treatment plant with facilities for filtration with pretreatment, or chemical softening,
or any similar process and completion of the appropriate level water treatment plant operator
courses in accordance with the provisions of the Sanitary Code for "Operator" in Section 5-4.2; or
C. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State two year college with an Associate's
Degree in applied science and four years of satisfactory experience in the actual operation of a
water treatment plant with facilities for filtration with pretreatment or chemical softening, or any
similar process and completion of the appropriate level water treatment plant operator courses in
accordance with the provisions of the Sanitary Code for "Operator" in Section 5-4.2; or
D. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school New York State Eequivalency
Ddiploma and ten (10) years of full-time paid satisfactory experience, or its part-time paid
equivalent, in the actual operation of a water treatment plant, at least two (2) years of which was
at a Type IA water treatment plant with facilities for filtration with pretreatment, or a chemical
softening, or any similar process. and completion of the provisions of the Sanitary Code for
"Operator" in Section 5-4.2.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Possession of a current Grade IA Water Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the
New York State Department of Health pursuant to Part 5, Subpart 5-4.2 of the New York State
Sanitary Code at the time of appointment and maintenance of said certification for the
duration of employment.
2. Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a valid driver license
equivalent to a New York State Class D driver license at the time of appointment and
maintenance of said license for the duration of employment.
1. Type A Plant whose designated capacity exceeds 1.5 million gallons per day:
Eligibility for a Grade I A Certificate issued under the provisions of the New York State Sanitary
Code. Possession of the Certificate at the time of appointment.
Jurisdiction: City of Ithaca
Jurisdictional Class: Competitive
Adopted: 10/12/99
Revised: 04/06/05, 02/28/18
SENIOR WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for supervising
and participating in assisting in overseeing and directing the operation and maintenance of a
Type IA Wwater Ttreatment Pplant containing facilities for filtration with pretreatment or a chemical
softening process, and including ancillary facilities such as an intake screen cleaning system,
process waste facilities with thickeners and presses, booster chlorination systems, and
water pumping stations. The incumbent plans and oversees the details of assigned work
projects and supervises plant operators, operator trainees, and work site activities on an
assigned shift. A Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator may be assigned responsibility for
one or more specialized areas of plant operations, such as maintenance, safety programs,
regulatory areas, watershed issues, or field and project sampling and analyses. The
incumbent assists a higher level Operator in developing, implementing and evaluating safety
programs, overseeing plant maintenance, overseeing the collection and testing of water samples
and the of monitoring chemical levels. The incumbent also performs the duties of a Water
Treatment Plant Operator. This position differs from that of a Water Treatment Plant Operator by
virtue of the fact that the Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator participates in the oversight of
plant operations. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Chief Water
Treatment Plant Operator and/or Assistant Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator with
considerable leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in planning and carrying out
the details of the work. Direct supervision may be exercised over the work of operators, trainees,
laboratory staff and other plant personnel. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Supervises and participates in the operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant,
pumping stations, intake facilities and waste handling facilities;
Supervises and participates in the operation, maintenance and repair of pumps, valves,
motors, and related plant equipment and machinery;
Supervises and participates in the reading of meters and gauges, and the recording of data
obtained from the readings;
Supervises and participates in the backwashing of filters and lines with water and
compressed air, and the washing of filter beds and settling basins;
Supervises and participates in the mixing of chemicals, the filling of water treatment tanks,
and the monitoring, regulation and adjustment of chemical feed equipment;
Confers with a higher level Operator regarding the operation of the plant including maintenance and
safety issues, the collection and testing of water samples and the monitoring of chemical
levels;
Plans, schedules, directs staff and performs work related to assigned specialized areas of
plant operations or maintenance;
Oversees work performed by plant operators, trainees, laboratory personnel and other subordinate
employees;
Functions as a liaison with various public agencies, the general public and consultants relative to
water treatment projects and/or issues;
Maintains an inventory of and requisitions supplies, chemicals and equipment as required;
Trains plant operators;
Conducts plant tours;
Compiles data relative to the plant’s operation and creates operating and maintenance reports;
Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator
Page 2
Typical Work Activities - continued
Oversees the maintenance and repair of machinery;
Reports orally and in writing to a higher level Operator as required;
Performs the duties of a Water Treatment Plant Operator as required including operating and
maintaining and performing repairs to pumps, valves, motors, and related plant equipment
and machinery, reading meters and gauges to obtain data on plant, backwashing filters and
lines with water and compressed air and washing filter beds and settling basins, mixing
chemicals, filling water treatment tanks and monitoring, regulating and adjusting chemical
feed equipment.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Good knowledge of the principles and practices involved in operating and maintaining a water
treatment plant, water pumping stations, and related waste handling processes; good
knowledge of the tools, materials, equipment, terminology and chemicals involved in operating and
maintaining a water treatment plant and its ancillary facilities; good knowledge of laboratory
principles and practices, equipment, materials and chemicals as they relate to water treatment
testing; good knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations applicable to a water
treatment plant, including waste process discharge; working knowledge of the principles,
practices and equipment involved in operating and maintaining a water transmission and distribution
system; working knowledge of the physical sciences as they relate to water purification; working
knowledge of modern office terminology, procedures, equipment, software programs, and business
English; ability to analyze and organize data and prepare records and reports; ability to understand
and interpret complex oral instructions and/or written directions; ability to establish and maintain
effective working relationships with others; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in
writing; ability to participate in assigned projects and lay-out work for others; ability to perform the
duties and responsibilities of a Water Treatment Plant Operator; ability to successfully work with and
serve a diverse local community; mechanical aptitude; physical condition commensurate with the
demands of the job.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Graduation from a NYS registered or regionally accredited college or university with a
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Natural Resource Management
or a closely related field with similar course curriculum, and one (1) year of full-time paid
experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in the operation of a Type IA water treatment
plant; or
B. Graduation from a NYS registered or regionally accredited college with an Associate's
Degree in Water/Wastewater Technology, Environmental Science, Engineering
Technology, physical sciences, chemistry, biological sciences, life sciences or a closely
related field with similar course curriculum, and three (3) two (2) years of full-time paid
experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in the operation of a water treatment plant, as a
Water Treatment Plant Operator, at least one of which was at a Type IA water treatment plant; or
C. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and five
(5) two (2) years of full-time paid experience, or its part-time paid equivalent, in the operation of
a water treatment plant, as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, at least one of which was at a
Type IA water treatment plant.
Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator
Page 3
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Possession of a current Grade IIA IA Water Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the
New York State Department of Health pursuant to Part 5, Subpart 5-4.2 of the New York State
Sanitary Code at the time of appointment and maintenance of said certification for the duration of
employment.
2. Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a valid driver license
equivalent to a New York State Class D driver license at the time of appointment and
maintenance of said license for the duration of employment.
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Regular Meeting
December 13, 2017
Commissioners Present: Commissioner Richardson
Commissioner Abrams
Commissioner Thompson
Staff Present: Valerie Saul (Deputy Director of Human Resources)
Commissioner Richardson called the meeting to order at 11:45 am.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Abrams made a motion to approve the minutes from the October 11, 2017
meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Thompson. Motion carried 3-0.
NEW BUSINESS
New Position Duties Statement: Planning Department – Housing Inspector (2)
The Commission reviewed and discussed a New Position Duties Statement from the
Planning Department for two new positions in the Building Division. Commissioner
Richardson made a motion to classify both positions as Housing Inspectors. Seconded by
Commissioner Thompson. Motion carried 3-0.
New Position Duties Statement and Adoption of Job Description: City Clerk’s Office
– Information Systems Manager
The Commission reviewed and discussed a New Position Duties Statement from the City
Clerk’s Office and the proposed job description for Information Systems Manager.
Commissioner Thompson made a motion to classify the position as Information Systems
Manager and adopt the job description as proposed. Seconded by Commissioner
Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
Request to Expand Residency Requirements – Wastewater Treatment Plant
Operator, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, Water Treatment Plant
Operator, Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee
The Commission discussed a request from the Superintendent of Public Works to
permanently expand the residency requirement for the Wastewater Treatment Plant
Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator positions to New York State. Both
positions require state certifications, so the pool of both local and regional candidates is
limited. The Superintendent also requested that the residency requirement for the
corresponding trainee positions be expanded to contiguous counties due to continued
recruitment difficulties. The Trainee exam has been offered twice during the past year,
and has only yielded four candidates. Two of those candidates were hired, one declined,
and one left the area. During the discussion, Deputy Human Resources Director Saul
informed the Commission that she intends to change the Entry Level Water and
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations exam to a continuous recruitment exam due to
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December 13, 2017
Page 2
the continual recruitment difficulties. As all four titles are tested through the one exam, the
residency requirement needs to be the same for all four titles. Deputy Director Saul
recommended that a New York State residency requirement be established for all four
positions governed by the exam. Commissioner Abrams made a motion to expand the
residency requirement for the positions of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator,
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, Water Treatment Plant Operator and
Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, as well as the corresponding Entry Level Water
and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations exam to New York State. Seconded by
Commissioner Thompson. Motion carried 3-0.
New Position Duties Statement: Youth Bureau – Recreation Program Leader
The Commission reviewed and discussed a New Position Duties Statement from the
Ithaca Youth Bureau. Commissioner Thompson made a motion to classify the position as
Recreation Program Leader. Seconded by Commissioner Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Commissioner Richardson made a motion to go into executive session to discuss civil
service examination matters. Seconded by Commissioner Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
During executive session, the Commission took the following actions:
CONTINUING BUSINESS
Approval of Rosters of Candidates for Examination
Commissioner Abrams made a motion to approve the Rosters of Candidates for
Examination listed below. Seconded by Commissioner Richardson. Motion carried 3-0.
Police Officer #60-793
Establishment of Eligible Lists
Commissioner Thompson made a motion to establish the eligible lists specified below for
the time period indicated. Seconded by Commissioner Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
Chief Inspector of Plumbing #69-188 (2 years)
Code Inspector #65-457 (1 year)
Housing Code Supervisor #76-868 (2 years)
Housing Inspector #65-458 (1 year)
Parking Operations Supervisor #71-103 (1 year)
Senior Code Inspector #76-478 (1 year)
Senior Code Inspector #69-231 (1 year)
Authorization to Establish Eligible Lists During December 2017
Commissioner Abrams made a motion to authorize Executive Secretary Valerie Saul to
establish eligible lists and add candidates to continuous recruitment eligible lists during the
month of December 2017 immediately upon the receipt of examination marks and/or
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December 13, 2017
Page 3
grading of exams. This will facilitate the immediate appointment of provisional candidates.
Ms. Saul will report the establishment of any such eligible lists and addition of continuous
recruitment candidates to the Commission at their January 2018 meeting. Seconded by
Commissioner Thompson. Motion carried 3-0.
Addition of Candidates to Continuous Recruitment Eligible Lists
Commissioner Richardson made a motion to add candidates to the continuous recruitment
eligible lists. Seconded by Commissioner Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
Approval of Personnel Transactions
Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve the Personnel Transactions.
Seconded by Commissioner Abrams. Motion carried 3-0.
The next Civil Service Commission meeting will be held Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at
11:30 am.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:18 pm.