As an Instrumentation Technician Specialist, the typical four-day work week is spent in the great outdoors from the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes to the Everglades. This position is part of the SCADA field support team which is responsible for delivering and administering state-of-the-art telemetric systems across all or part of 16 counties in Florida. The team design, build installs, delivers and support installations, in addition to overseeing and maintaining the District’s telemetry systems and technologies which directly supports the success of the District’s strategic programs.
This technician is highly skilled and manages small projects from the planning phase through completion and has final responsibility for own work. Performs the more difficult phases in installing, testing, evaluating, calibrating, maintaining, and adjusting electronic devices such as dataloggers, sensors, radios, and remote terminal units (RTU) for optimum performance. Repairs non-routine malfunctions to equipment that supports the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) network. Measures performance characteristics of analog and digital data communication systems. Troubleshoots failed units down to the individual module level, analyzes the cause of failures, and performs complex repairs. Capable of building and installing RTU panels from drawings, assembles components to desired configurations, loads programs, tests and works within sub-systems to ensure proper functioning of a system. Sets up and runs a variety of routine and non-routine environmental, operational, and functional tests on components, systems, and new and repaired products. Performs advanced analysis and interpretation of test data. Writes technical reports and develops graphs or charts to document complicated operating characteristics, failures, and limitations of the equipment. Recommends new test procedures or changes to service schedules. Assists and may assume a lead and training roles to assist less experienced technicians. Stays abreast of new technologies, products and procedures. Maintains assigned parts stock inventories.
Demonstrates the ability to transfer existing skills and knowledge to new products and technologies. Has the electronic theory and experience to plan and carry out a non-standardized integration. Is proficient with electronic circuitry, radio frequency, digital and analog components, control systems, microprocessors, digital communication and programmable controllers. Has advanced skill in using instruments such as voltmeters, wattmeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and various other small tools. Has advanced computer skill and experience in the use of applicable software.
Is detail-oriented and fully capable of working independently most of the time. Is able to adapt to changing technologies that require higher reading and math skills. Has effective communication skills and the ability to convey complete and understandable information through written reports and verbal explanations. Possesses advanced technical skills to identify/assess a problem and implements an effective and long-lasting solution.
Has physical stamina including the ability to stoop, climb, and maneuver in hard-to-reach places in a hot, wet/humid environment. May operate a variety of heavy vehicles such as forklift or bucket truck, based on business needs; may require ability to complete training in operation of such vehicles.
Work hours are Monday - Thursday from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm, off on Friday. Work location – Daily reporting to the Field Operations Center – West Palm Beach, FL.
This position may be filled at the SCADA Instrumentation Technician Staff level.
Employment Guidelines:
Instrumentation Technician – Specialist: Associate Degree (In lieu of degree, equivalent combination of relevant experience and education may be substituted) and 4+ years' experience in Electronic Technology or related field within Electronics.
Instrumentation Technician - Staff: Associate Degree (In lieu of degree, equivalent combination of relevant experience and education may be substituted) and 2+ years' experience in Electronic Technology or related area within Electronics.
License(s) / Certification(s):
Valid State of Florida Driver's License (Class E).
Based on business needs, a Florida Class A Commercial Driver’s License may be required.
Ability to obtain certification in CPR and First Aid.
Physical Requirements/ Working Environment:
Due to the District's response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position will be required to provide independent and team support before, during and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies. This position will, at times, be required to be On-Call after regular work hours, weekends, and holidays.
Some of the work is field related in remote areas with heavy vegetation, under hot or cold, humid, wet conditions. Additional physical requirements/working conditions include:
Agility
Balancing Basic water skills, ability to swim
Drive/Operate equipment
Exposure to stinging/biting insects, snakes, alligators
Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Manual Dexterity
Use of hand/power tools
Vision (near vision-computer screen; far vision-driving/operating equipment)
Visual Color Identification
Walking, rough terrain
Work in, on, or near water
Work from boats, airboats, helicopters and ATV’s
Veterans’ Preference:
Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Candidates claiming Veterans’ Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. All documentation is due by the close of the job posting.
Americans with Disabilities Act:
The South Florida Water Management District is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Bureau at