People Behind the Pipes

1. Describe your job.

I keep record drawings of projects done in our system, which also go in plan reviews. When new projects come in, we look at how it may affect our water, wastewater, and recycled water systems. Outside developers or cities could have projects with housing developments or commercial space with a new tenant moving in. We assess sewer capacity to make sure everyone’s paid their fair share to treat their wastewater. Using a geographic information system (GIS), we keep track of all the pipes, maintenance access holes, and valves to keep the data as accurate as possible so our staff in the field are able to track down information on pipe sizes, valve types, and dates work was performed. After we review drawings and they get approved, I incorporate them into GIS. I work with our engineers when they need record drawings or other information.

I coordinate with DSRSD’s construction inspectors on project development and any changes that come up. I’m generally in the office, but I go out in the field if there’s a substantial event such as a sanitary sewer overflow, and I’ve seen pipes go in. It’s cool to be out in the field every so often. If we need to get a specific location or info on a valve for GIS, I’ll go out and be a detective to see if something’s been paved over or confirming if the system is accurate. We also look to see what locations in the system can be isolated if needed, so we can minimize how many people get affected during a water shutdown.

Engineering/GIS Technician II Roper Macaraeg uses a GPS receiver to get the exact coordinates of a valve.

I help staff the Permit Counter to answer questions for developers as well as commercial and residential customers. For example, residents adding an accessory dwelling unit will need a permit, and it’s good if they come here sooner rather than later so we can work them through how to use our online application system. I also coordinate with the City of Dublin and City of San Ramon to get projects completed.

2. How did you get into this field?

I started off in architecture. I have a bachelor's degree in architecture from the University of California, Berkeley. I was with a private firm and ended up working on a project for DSRSD’s Field Operations Facility. I was taking some coding classes too, and the DSRSD engineer I was working with recommended I apply for an opening. I can use some of that coding knowledge for GIS to automate or run scripts. The architecture background helps a lot when working with construction. It was a good transition when I joined the District in February 2018. I was able to read plans and understand what was going on. I used a 2D drawing program, AutoCAD, which came in handy to translate some of those drawings to GIS to help line up pipes and see where they should be installed.

3. What do you like best about your job?

The biggest thing is the people I work with—it helps a lot in any job. I also enjoy working on digital information that affects real-time, real-life problems to come up with solutions and make things easier for everyone in the field. People rely on this information, so it has an active effect. The people I work with are impressive and work well together. They’re willing to help if you’re in need.

4. What is the biggest challenge of your position?

Finding drawings that may or may not exist, since the District was created in 1953. If there are older pipelines having issues and we need to find drawings, there’s no guarantee they even exist. The older the drawing, the more likely it won’t exist. I work with other staff where someone will just come in with a “Hail Mary” and find a drawing of a pipeline, valve, or construction document. When our Field Operations staff have to shut down valves and need to find the best place to do it, it’s important to have an accurate digital footprint, especially during an emergency.

5. What is something unique about yourself?

I used to teach Shotokan karate. I’ve been practicing it since I was in the fifth grade. When I got my black belt, I started teaching it when I was in college. When I had kids, I pulled back from teaching to focus on family. Now I get to teach my kids martial arts, and it’s really fun seeing them develop.

6. What do you like to do in your free time?

My wife, Jen, and I have been into board games with our kids, Ryder, Teddy, and Clara. We play classics such as Chutes and Ladders and Mousetrap, and also some video games. We like to take the kids to different parks and get pizza and cookies.