W/R TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

Job Summary:
The W/R Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for performing operational, laboratory, and maintenance functions in a water/wastewater treatment plant. Responsibilities include checking vaults, pumps, and electronic instruments for proper functioning; conducting analysis; cleaning and changing out pumps; taking samples and testing for proper chemical feed; regulating and adjusting pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions; checking influent and effluent points for visual detection of irregularities and proper functioning; using SCADA to monitor processes and process equipment both at the plant and in the distribution system; preparing, maintaining, and reviewing records and laboratory results; identifying necessary changes in chemical, biological, and mechanical plant processes and functions to meet discharge limits; recording data from various meters, gauges, and dials; logging all activities; using work and asset management tools for time entry and work order submission; and coordinating with other utilities to meet the demands of combined wholesale customers at the Water Treatment Facilities. The operator works under direct supervision, in accordance with established policies and procedures. Availability for rotating shifts, on-call, weekends, holidays and call-back are required. Performs related work as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Adheres to safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Checks vaults, pumps, and electronic instruments for proper functioning.
• Conducts analysis and performs routine laboratory tests.
• Cleans and changes out pumps.
• Takes samples and tests for proper chemical feed.
• Regulates and adjusts pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.
• Checks influent and effluent points for visual detection of irregularities and proper functioning.
• Uses SCADA to monitor processes and process equipment both at the plant and in the distribution system.
• Prepares, maintains, and reviews records and laboratory results.
• Identifies necessary changes in chemical, biological, and mechanical plant processes and functions to meet discharge limits.
• Records data from various meters, gauges, and dials.
• Logs all activities.
• Uses work and asset management tools for time entry and work order submission.
• Coordinates with other utilities to meet the demands of combined wholesale customers at the Water Treatment Facilities.
• Performs related work as required.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Good knowledge of safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and permitting requirements.
• Working knowledge of chemical and biological principles pertinent to water/wastewater treatment plant operations and standard laboratory tests and procedures.
• Ability to perform routine laboratory tests.
• Ability to maintain detailed records.
• Ability to work in confining areas.
• Ability to perform accurate mathematical computations and read and interpret schematics, drawings, and blueprints.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of employees.

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited two-year college with an Associate’s Degree in plumbing, industrial maintenance technology, engineering technology, science technology, or a related field, and a minimum of one year of related experience; OR
• Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and a minimum of three years of experience in distribution/collection system maintenance, laboratory analysis, operation of a water/wastewater treatment plant, or a related field; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience as defined above.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Exposure to chemicals, dust, fumes, gases, loud noises, odors, oils, and other hazards associated with working around water and raw wastewater in all types of weather and temperature conditions.

Special Requirements:

• Must obtain/maintain Grade C certification for water treatment by the State of North Carolina within eighteen (18) months. For Wastewater:  Grade II license for Wastewater Operations within (24) months of employment in the position.   

GRADE 406 $23.29 - $30.68 HOURLY NON-EXEMPT