Head Treatment Plant Operator (HTPO) - Wastewater

Job Description

JOB TITLE: HEAD TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

DEPARTMENT: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES – WASTEWATER DIVISION

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULL-TIME/NON-EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION: TEAMSTERS LOCAL #404

The City of Pittsfield’s Department of Public Utilities, Wastewater Division, is seeking a qualified individual to fill the Head Treatment Plant Operator position (HTPO). Working under the plant superintendent, the HTPO provides supervision to Wastewater personnel, and operates and maintains machinery and equipment in and around the Wastewater treatment plant and adjacent facilities. The HTPO checks machinery and equipment for malfunctions, and conducts regular and preventative maintenance and repairs.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides first level supervisory control and responsibility for security, operation and performance of the wastewater treatment facilities and their operation.
• Checks machinery and equipment for malfunctions; conducts regular & routine preventative maintenance; makes repairs to or assists in the repair or overhaul of process machinery & equipment.
• Makes routine laboratory tests at various stages of treatment in accordance with standard procedures and makes changes in treatment chemicals and equipment as required to maintain treatment performance within established limits. Obtains and records readings of instruments, makes adjustments in equipment as indicated or required and maintains operation and treatment logs.
• Performs treatment related duties as required, including but not limited to: grounds maintenance, treated water and wastestream sampling on or off the several facilities operating valves and gates to adjust flow rates, adjusting recording instruments, performing inventories of and ordering chemicals as directed, changing chlorine cylinders, operating motor vehicles in support of various treatment related operations, and salting/sanding/plowing snow in support of the facility operations.
• Performs incidental custodial cleaning and maintenance painting required to maintain plant facilities in neat, clean and orderly fashion.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Candidate must be eighteen (18) years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two (2) years of full-time experience in a position of responsibility as a treatment plant operator or equivalent, involved with operation of complex water treatment works, including satisfactory experience in charge of a shift or work crews.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Must possess, or have the ability to obtain within 6 months, a Valid Massachusetts Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate - Grade 6C.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with wastewater or water treatment processes, primary & secondary clarification, trickling filter operation, nitrification, anaerobic digestion, chlorination, phosphorous removal, sludge dewatering and disposal and NPDES permit requirements. Knowledge of and familiarity with basic water chemistry & laboratory procedures and equipment used in water and wastewater analysis.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with construction and operating characteristics of valves, gates, pumps, motors, compressors and other equipment as used in water or wastewater treatment plants and processors.
• Physical ability and agility sufficient to operate valve, gates, and other equipment as required in treatment facility or pumping operation and control involving the entry into manholes and vaults, climbing ladders, etc.
• Ability to interact with people on an up-beat and friendly basis regardless of circumstances.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The incumbent works in various dynamic municipal buildings and locations. While performing the duties of the Head Treatment Plant Operator, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City. Frequent periods of outside work may be entailed, subject to all weather conditions and extremes. Incumbent may be required to work at any time during the 24-hour day to respond to weather-related or emergency needs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical ability and agility sufficient to operate valves, gates and other equipment as required in treatment facility or pumping operation and control involving the entry into manholes and vaults, climbing ladders, cross-country travel etc. Lift up to 50 lbs.

HOURS

Monday – Friday. 40 hours per week

Two 11pm to 7am shifts and three 3pm to 11pm shifts per week.

SALARY

Without Grade 6C Certification

Starting salary $22.22 - $23.57 per hour

Annual increases up to $30.76 per hour

With Grade 6C Certification

Starting salary $23.24 - $24.65 per hour

Annual increase up to $32.17 per hour

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Thursday, February 13, 2025 @ 4:00PM

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement