Wastewater Operator I, II

JOB TITLE: WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR I , II

DEPARTMENT: Public Works, Wastewater Division

Classification: Non-Exempt

Union: ASCFME

Annual Pay Operator I: $ 62,425

Annual Pay Operator II: $ 70,454

HOW TO APPLY:

Apply directly to our website. The really mailbox may not be checked daily. https:/sedro-woolley.gov/resources/

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:

Under supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I), general supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II, performs a variety of duties essential to the operation of a Major (>1.0 mgd) Wastewater Treatment Facility; inspects, operates, monitors, and maintains a variety of equipment, and systems involved in various processes of the wastewater treatment plant facility and associated pump stations; monitors plant operation through visual observation and computer screens; regulates flows; performs chemical analysis and tests; and performs a variety of related duties to ensure the facility’s final effluent is of the best quality in order to protect the community and all downstream receiving waters and their users while utilizing plant resources wisely and efficiently.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I – This is the first level class in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. Positions at this level, working under direct supervision, have prior experience in the operation, repair, and maintenance of machinery, pumps, or mechanical equipment, including some experience in a wastewater treatment plant, but are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II level and exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Individuals at this level are expected to become fully knowledgeable of the assigned area and to learn the full range of plant maintenance, repair, and operations functions. Individuals at this level participate in regular assignment to the on call rotation, using sound professional judgement to determine proper response to alarm/emergency situation while understanding that all process control decisions must be approved by a supervisor or a higher classified operator. Certification as an operator is required and training is provided by the City. Certification as a Group I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology is required.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II – This is the journey level class in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. Positions at this level, working under general supervision, require demonstrated ability to perform a variety of wastewater treatment plant maintenance and repair duties as well as a variety of plant operational duties. Individuals at this level may act as the operator in charge and have direct charge of the operation of the wastewater treatment facility in the absence of a supervisor. Positions at this level participate in regular assignment to the on call rotation and are qualified to make independent process control decisions. Positions in this class series at the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II level are normally filled by advancement from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I level. Positions at this level require two years of experience comparable to a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I with the City of Sedro-Woolley and must possess a Group II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

· Performs the full range of duties related to pump station, and plant operations; operates a variety of facilities, systems, equipment, pumps, and valves; learns to operate and maintain new systems and equipment as necessary, participates in implementing new operational strategies.

· Performs a variety of equipment maintenance duties; exercises, tests, inspects, removes, cleans, lubricates, repairs, maintains, and reinstalls equipment related to a variety of wastewater treatment plant and pump station facilities, systems, tanks, pumps, motors, valves, piping systems and related equipment; cleans and calibrates meters, probes and level sensors; trouble shoots equipment control systems; performs general housekeeping and upkeep of all areas associated with assigned facilities.

· Performs a variety of process control related duties; collects samples from various plant processes for laboratory analysis; operates and calibrates automatic samplers; performs a variety of tests and analysis; measures secondary settling basins sludge depths; performs mathematical calculations including those related to flows, areas, volume, weight, force, pressure, chemical dosage, and those related to various tests and analysis; evaluates laboratory and plant testing results, calculations, data, graphs, and reports and implements results in operational control.

· Performs the full scope of biosolids handling duties; applies basic aerobic digestion principles, takes action to prevent malfunctions, monitors and adjusts equipment related to pressing, thickening and mixing polymer.

· Participates in major and minor project work; improving, replacing or relocating equipment and systems, and installing new equipment and systems.

· Investigates and acknowledges alarms throughout the wastewater treatment facility; monitors, and responds to pump station alarms; responds to or locates and notifies appropriate personnel to respond to plant and pump station alarms; provides support, security, and communication as needed when responding to alarms.

· Performs a variety of recordkeeping duties; creates new log books and properly stores old records and log books; reviews and maintains Safety Data Sheets (SDS) records; completes, maintains, and files a variety of forms, lists, records, schedules, and informational logs.

· Performs a variety of duties in response to power outage emergencies; operates, monitors, adjusts, and maintains backup generators; responds to power outages by properly resetting, restarting, and bringing systems essential to proper plant operations back on-line; maintains proper fuel levels in generators and storage tanks.

· Performs a variety of duties in response to wet weather emergencies; operates, monitors, and adjusts plant, collection system and pump station processes.

· Performs a variety of public relations related duties; conducts tours and provides educational information; receives, investigates, documents, and responds to odor/sewer complaints; receives telephone inquiries from the public; answers questions and directs inquiries to appropriate personnel as necessary, maintains good relations with professional and business contacts.

· Participates in a variety of training activities; studies equipment manuals for all facility equipment; receives and applies training on new equipment and processes as well as initial and periodic refresher training on processes, procedures, systems, equipment and safety related to assignment; maintains familiarity with all standard operating procedures pertaining to equipment and plant processes; participates in all and conducts assigned safety meetings; may provide training to new operators-in-training and interns on equipment and plant processes.

· Performs and participates in a variety of safety related duties and activities; follows all safety plans and procedures when performing work; uses appropriate safety devices, equipment and personal protective equipment; maintains awareness of and reports/corrects any trip hazards, spills, and unsafe equipment; properly handles, stores, and labels various chemicals; maintains familiarity with the Chemical Hygiene Plan; maintains familiarity with chemical handling procedures and responses; inspects, cleans, and maintains eye-wash stations; maintains and inspects all personal protective equipment and restocks as necessary; maintains and updates SDS catalog; maintains proper facility lighting; performs proper lock-out/tag-out procedures; employs correct confined space procedures, secures facility perimeter and ensures buildings and vehicles are secure.

· Participates in regular assignment to the on call rotation; responds to plant alarms and after normal working hour emergencies and required jobs. Uses sound professional judgement to determine proper response to alarm/emergency situation, notify supervisory staff as necessary. Must be able to perform the duties of a collection specialist when required.

· Safely operates a utility truck and pickup in and out of plant and Operates forklift inside the plant grounds as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

License or Certificate:

· Possession of a Group I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

· Valid Washington State Driver's license with Class B CDL, Air Brake Endorsement and Tanker Endorsement.

· Valid First Aid and CPR cards or ability to obtain within six months

· Valid Washington State Traffic Control FLAGGER license or ability to obtain within six months.

Knowledge of:

· Operations, services, activities, and terminology of a wastewater treatment program including wastewater treatment plant processes and controls.

· Principles, practices, chemicals, and operating procedures related to the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant, and pump stations.

· Principles of operation, inspection, and maintenance of running a belt filter press, belt thickener and polymer mixing equipment. Familiarity with applicable regulations, environmental concerns, and pollution prevention as applied to Biosolids Management Practices.

· Materials, tools, equipment, and methods used in the general construction, operation, maintenance, and repair of wastewater treatment plant facilities, systems, and equipment.

· Operating principles of pump station and plant equipment including large pumps, valves, and motors.

· Methods and techniques of reading and interpreting gauges, recording devices, and related monitoring systems.

· Maintenance, repair and troubleshooting principles and practices including preventative maintenance procedures.

· Emergency maintenance and repair procedures related to wastewater treatment facilities.

· Methods and techniques of conducting tests and procedures related to wastewater treatment analysis.

· Basic principles of wastewater microbiology.

· Mathematical calculations used in wastewater treatment operations including algebraic calculations.

· Hydraulic principles of pumping and piping systems.

· Plumbing systems and material selection.

· NPDES permit requirements, and other pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.

· Operational and safety regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment plant operations.

· Occupational hazards and standard safety precautions.

· Principles and procedures used in the proper handling of chemicals.

· Basic mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic principles.

· Principles and practices of customer service.

· Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications.

· Principles and practices of record keeping.

· Basic principles of training.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Group I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I/II/III

Education/Training: Must be a high school graduate or equivalent. In addition, two (2) years of post-secondary college or technical training or a bachelor in science in water/wastewater/process technology, chemistry, biology, engineering, environmental science, or related field is desirable. Relevant work experience is considered as it pertains to water/wastewater treatment.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I

Experience: One year of experience in the operation, repair, and maintenance of machinery, pumps, or mechanical equipment including one year of experience in a wastewater treatment plant. Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the incumbent with the necessary qualifications will be considered.

License or Certificate:

· Possession of a Group I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

· Valid Washington State Driver's license with Class B CDL, Air Brake Endorsement and Tanker Endorsement.

· Valid First Aid and CPR cards or ability to obtain within six months

· Valid Washington State Traffic Control FLAGGER license or ability to obtain within six months.

Other Licenses which are desired and may be required:

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $62,425.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $62,425 - $70,454