What is a shift and chief operator? Why is it even important? These are great questions to have, and I will do my best to explain the importance. These titles were taken from the California Regulation Related to Drinking Water. Yes, the water agency you will work for will have to comply with regulations.
This is important because California could come in and shut everything down if an agency is in violation of these regulations. Afterall, whether a water agency is in it for profit or to provide a service to a community. The importance of delivering safe water to residents cannot be stressed enough.
A Shift Operator can be someone that has a D3 certification for a level 5 distribution facility or a T3 for a level 5 treatment plant. The level of certification can vary based on the level of the facility, but we will stick with this simple example. This Shift Operator will oversee the distribution or treatment system for a specific period in the day. This means that the agency is trusting this person with things that may pop up.
It is a very important role, and California wants to be sure that someone competent can handle the system during this period. The period the Shift Operator will usually take is when everyone goes home. This person is now in charge when the agency closes. This doesn’t mean that they work the entire time. It means that they must respond to calls that come in after hours. There may be a lot or there may be none. It really depends and can vary by day.
A Chief Operator can be someone that has a D5 certification for a level 5 distribution facility or a T5 for a level 5 treatment plant. Again, the level of certification can vary based on the level of the facility, but we will stick with this simple example. The Chief Operator is trusted with the responsibility of the entire distribution or treatment system. They are the people that will have to speak up when questions or issues come up. Trust me, issues do come up, and they must be ready to figure out a plan of attack. This is why they are crucial to water agencies.
These two Operators are crucial to run a water system. An agency cannot operate without a Chief Operator. A person cannot be left alone to be in charge without being a Shift Operator. Otherwise, they are in violation of the regulations. This is why you should strive to get your certifications. You will be of great value!