Utility Plant Operator Apprentice (Water)

Description

Performs a combination of basic and semi-skilled work in the operation of a City Water or Wastewater (W/WW) Treatment Plant; monitors, inspects, maintains and adjusts equipment according to job specifications and technical codes.

Examples of Duties

Assists in the operation of water purification and transmission facilities, or wastewater collection and treatment facilities; duties will vary according to job assignment and skill level. Collects, tests and analyzes W/WW samples, including water quality, chemical saturation and biosolids level; performs testing procedures within scope of authority; analyzes test results, using approved laboratory methods. Observes and monitors manual and automatic equipment; assists in the operation of pumps, compressors, valves and other electrical and electronic equipment to control and adjust W/WW flow and treatment processes according to Department policies and procedures. Monitors SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) process control system gauges, meters and electronic control panels; monitors and learns to regulate electrical systems and chemical processes; records readings and maintains manual and computerized shift log. May be assigned to monitor and operate the sludge dewatering facility at the Wastewater Treatment Plant or monitor the sludge lagoons at the Water Treatment Plant, depending on area of assignment Observes and reports variations in operating conditions; records meter and gauge readings; reads and interprets technical manuals; performs tests to determine if processing conditions are outside specifications; reports anomalies to supervisor. Maintains plant work areas, tools and equipment in a safe and orderly condition; performs minor preventive maintenance on W/WW equipment. Performs operations and maintenance activities within scope of authority, and in accordance with all safety regulations and procedures; notifies supervisors of problems beyond the scope of authority. Performs other duties as assigned. Maintains facility work areas in a safe and orderly condition; assists with cleaning and maintaining buildings, equipment, grounds and property. Maintains physical security of plant facilities through regular safety inspections and monitoring of remote camera systems. Utilizes proper safety precautions, and assures that safety rules and regulations are followed; reports safety hazards, equipment problems, security issues and emergency situations.

Minimum Requirements

High School Diploma or GED equivalent, and one year of operations and maintenance experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License. Ability to obtain Class D Water/Wastewater license from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) within five months. Ability to obtain class C license is required within nine months of meeting TCEQ requirements.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

Work is performed in W/WW Treatment Plant facilities; required to perform moderate physical work, and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Full manual dexterity and visual acuity is required. The job risks exposure to bright/dim light, dusts and pollen, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, extreme noise levels, fumes and/or noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, electrical shock, heights, and toxic/caustic chemicals.

All full-time employees receive:

15 vacation days

10 paid holidays

15 sick days

Retirement Plan (Texas Municipal Retirement System) with a two to one match

Paid Health/Dental/Life Insurance

Cafeteria Plan

Emergency Leave

Longevity Pay

Free employee health clinic

Tuition reimbursement