Water Systems Technician

VALLEY QUEEN CHEESE FACTORY, INC.

Water Systems Technician

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary

The Water Systems Technician supports the daily operation, monitoring, and basic maintenance of plant water systems used to supply potable, process, and auxiliary water throughout the facility. This role performs routine sampling, testing, inspections, and documentation activities to support compliance with FDA Grade "A" Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) requirements and Valley Queen internal standards.

The Water Systems Technician works closely with the Manufacturing Water Systems Specialist and the Water Treatment Systems Specialist, providing hands-on support to ensure water systems operate reliably and water used in manufacturing, sanitation, and utilities remains safe and compliant.

Essential Functions

Water Sampling, Testing & Monitoring

• Perform routine water sampling and testing according to established schedules, SOPs, and PMO Chapter 7 requirements.
• Conduct basic testing for microbial, chemical, and physical water quality parameters as assigned.
• Operate, verify, and assist with calibration checks of water testing and monitoring equipment.
• Accurately complete required logs, records, and checklists for water systems.

Water System Inspections & Support

• Conduct routine visual inspections of water treatment, storage, and distribution systems.
• Assist with monitoring filtration units, RO systems, softeners, UV systems, and chemical treatment systems under the direction of specialists.
• Identify abnormal conditions, trends, or equipment concerns and promptly escalate to leadership.
• Support basic troubleshooting, cleaning, and preventative maintenance activities for water systems.
• Assist with verification of sanitary conditions at manufacturing points of water use, including CIP and sanitation systems.

Documentation & Compliance Support

• Maintain accurate records related to water sampling results, system checks, and equipment inspections.
• Follow established SOPs, SSOPs, and safety procedures related to water systems and testing.
• Support audits and inspections by gathering documentation and assisting during walkthroughs as directed.
• Report results and observations clearly and promptly to the appropriate specialist or supervisor.

Training & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Participate in required training related to water systems, food safety, and plant safety.
• Work collaboratively with Manufacturing, Sanitation, Maintenance, Quality Assurance, and Technical Services teams.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), plant safety requirements, and company policies at all times.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to water system reliability, efficiency, and compliance.

Competencies

• Attention to Detail
• Dependability
• Basic Technical Aptitude
• Communication Skills
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Time Management
• Problem Awareness & Escalation
• Willingness to Learn
• Safety Awareness
• Documentation Accuracy

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no supervisory responsibility.

Work Environment

This position operates in office, plant, laboratory, and utility environments. Exposure may include temperature variations, noise, chemicals, moving mechanical parts, vibration, and wet or humid conditions.

Position Type / Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Typical hours may include weekdays with some early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays based on operational and regulatory needs.

Travel

No travel or minimal travel (less than 5%) expected.

Required Education, Experience & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical training preferred.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, utilities, sanitation, maintenance, or laboratory support preferred.
• Ability to follow written procedures and accurately complete documentation.
• Basic computer skills, including data entry or electronic logs

Preferred Education, Experience & Certifications

• Experience in dairy or food manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with water systems, sanitation, or CIP systems.
• Coursework or training in environmental science, water technology, or food safety.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish.
• Additional Eligibility Qualifications

Minimum age requirement is 18 years.

Other Duties

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of responsibilities, duties, or tasks. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.
Days - 12 hour shifts - Work half the days of the year!