DWM Backflow Specialist I (OES)

Posting expires: October 13, 2026

Salary range: $54,863 - $73,242

General Description and Classification Standards:

Responsible for protecting the potable, non-potable water supply, and on site plumbing of customers by inspecting the installation of backflow assemblies, performing cross connection control testing, and conducting water use surveys. This position communicates with internal and external customers to maintain a database of all assemblies attached to the water distribution system.

Supervision Received:

Performs work under general supervision with review and advice from manager or a senior level professional.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

- Coordinate virtual, phone, and on-site meetings with internal and external customers, contractors, developers (both commercial and residential) to ensure proper backflow device is installed for the correct level of potential hazard.
- Attend pre-construction meetings in conjunction with the plan review team to ensure all new construction projects have the correct backflow preventer called out for installation on all approved construction plans.
- Maintain and update an ever-changing digital record of all documented existing backflow devices in the distribution system using SwiftComply software.
- Visually inspect and record each new backflow device installed on both commercial and residential properties connected to the distribution system.
- Annotate and report violations of no protection or inadequate protection with required device type and installation instructions, for notice to be generated and sent to customer.
- Troubleshoot and answer backflow complaints from customers.
- Verify each change in device information with a field inspection and confirmation.
- Produce water availability letters using GIS & plat cards for upcoming projects within the service jurisdiction.
- Assist plan review team with confirmation of meters to be abandoned.
- May perform other duties as assigned such as water truck inspections and fire hydrant meters with backflow device inspections.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

- Knowledge of backflow prevention principles, cross-connection control, and water distribution systems.
- Knowledge of potable and non-potable water systems and public health protection practices.
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal plumbing codes, backflow regulations, and industry standards.
- Knowledge of backflow prevention device types, installation requirements, and hazard classifications.
- Knowledge of construction plans, site plans, GIS mapping, and plat cards.
- Knowledge of database management and recordkeeping using software applications such as SwiftComply or similar asset management systems.
- Knowledge of customer service principles and effective communication techniques.
- Skilled in inspecting backflow prevention assemblies and identifying installation deficiencies.
- Skilled in maintaining accurate electronic records and databases.
- Skilled in interpreting construction plans, engineering drawings, and plumbing schematics.
- Skilled in conducting field inspections and documenting findings accurately.
- Skilled in troubleshooting customer concerns and resolving issues related to backflow protection.
- Skilled in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and GIS-based applications.
- Skilled in organizing, prioritizing, and managing multiple projects and inspections simultaneously.
- Skilled in verbal and written communication with customers, contractors, developers, and internal staff.
- Skilled in preparing technical reports, notices, and documentation.
- Ability to interpret and apply plumbing codes, cross-connection control regulations, and utility policies.
- Ability to determine the appropriate backflow prevention device based on hazard level and water use.
- Ability to conduct visual inspections and recognize code violations or improper installations.
- Ability to analyze technical information and make sound recommendations regarding backflow protection.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, contractors, developers, and coworkers.
- Ability to work independently while managing assigned inspections and administrative responsibilities.
- Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Ability to maintain detailed, accurate, and confidential records.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and travel throughout the service area to perform field inspections.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities, regulations, and operational needs while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience -

- High School diploma or equivalent
- Three (3) years of experience in water distribution and backflow prevention
- Possession a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia

Licensures and Certifications -

- One year to obtain a State of Georgia Water Distribution Certification

Preferred Requirements

State of Georgia Water Distribution Certification.

Work Environment:

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with job.

City of Atlanta is an equal opportunity employer.

Lifting Requirements:

Light work : Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects.

It is the policy of the City of Atlanta (“COA”) that qualified individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against because of their disabilities regarding job application procedures, hiring, and other terms and conditions of employment. It is further the policy of the COA to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of the employment process. The COA is prepared to modify or adjust the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of the applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee to be considered for the position he or she desires, to perform the essential functions of the position in question, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation will impose an undue hardship. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Director for your department.

The City of Atlanta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, ender identity, marital status, veteran’s status or national origin, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.