Senior Plant Operator - Water Production (Hiring Incentive: $1,000)

Operates and maintains a 20 million gallon/day surface water treatment facility, four treated water pumping, storage and metering facilities, five elevated storage tanks and raw water intake and booster stations.  Performs various laboratory tests and analysis as required for effective operation of the facility and distribution system.

Starting pay based on Water Certificate of Competency license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ):

• Leads, operates and monitors all processing equipment and machinery; maintains computerized operational control of elevated storage tanks, ground storage tanks, incline booster stations, pump stations and metering stations; initiates changes in operation as determined through calculations and monitoring of processing variables, test procedures and independent judgement of varying factors.
• Maintains quality processing records, including water flows, chemical dosage, laboratory analysis, and various other facility operations.
• Effects routine maintenance (repairs and cleaning) of all buildings/structures, equipment, fans and blowers; includes but is not limited to conducting routine inspections, making mechanical repairs/adjustments and overhauling pumps, reduction gear, and variable speed drive units.
• Performs various laboratory tests and analysis required for effective operation of the water treatment facility (Ph/alkalinity, chlorine residual, fluoride residual, turbidity, jar tests, chlorine demand); handles calibration of associated test equipment.
• Responds to and takes appropriate action in relation to hazardous chemical leaks (chlorine, anhydrous ammonia, hydrofluorosilicic acid), which require the use of an oxygen breathing apparatus.
• Provides after-hours and week-end emergency phone response for customers concerning public service situations.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED.

Experience

• 2 years of surface water treatment experience.

Any combination of related, education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the job's essential functions is an acceptable substitute for the above-specified education and experience requirements.

 REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES

 Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of and ability to apply basic chemistry and mathematical principles.
• Knowledge of basic water purification equipment processes, controls, instrumentation and hydraulics.

• Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
• Ability to follow instructions, safety practices and standard operating procedures in performing assigned tasks.
• Ability to be punctual and attend work regularly
• Ability to work effectively with people regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or job type.
• Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and apply basic knowledge of water purification equipment processes, controls, instrumentation, and hydraulics.
• Ability to interpret charts, flow diagrams, maintenance manuals and instructions.
• Ability to perform mechanical repairs, including gas/electric welding.
• Ability to work effectively with limited supervision; follow oral and written communications; effectively communicate with the public in giving and receiving information and answering inquiries relative to area of responsibility.
• Must possess the ability to provide leadership and follow through on jobs to completion.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations as needed.
• Ability to climb ladders to tanks up to 35 ft.
• Ability to climb towers up to 150 ft.
• Ability to use both feet to operate foot controls of vehicles.
• Ability to endure changes in temperature and exposure to dust, fumes, and gases.
• Ability to distinguish different colors to read and interpret lab equipment and fluids.
• Ability to be punctual and attend work regularly.

 Skills:

• Skill in use of personal computer including Microsoft Office, Open Office or similar word processing programs, e-mail and the internet.

• Must submit to and pass a criminal background, pre-employment drug test, pre-placement medical examination and job placement assessment (JPA).
• Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver's License Class "C" and good driving record as defined by City policy.
  • An applicant who does not possess a Texas Driver's License or proper class, will be allowed ten (10) working days after a job offer is made to obtain proper licensing.
• Must obtain a Grade B Water Certificate of Competency from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) within 1 Year from date of hire.
• Must have a Grade C Water Certificate of competency from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at the date of hire.
• Preference will be given to applicants with water treatment experience who already hold a Grade B or higher Water Certificate of Competency.

Salary : $53,390 - $70,953