Wastewater Plant Operator I

NATURE OF WORK

Performs skilled work in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant during a permanent or rotating shift. Work involves responsibility for the efficient operation of a wastewater treatment plant and routine adjustments to equipment and machinery operating controls. An employee in this class exercises some independent judgement in making adjustments to machinery, equipment and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards and may exercise limited supervision over subordinate operators engaged in maintaining and operating various types of pumps, motors, grinders and belt presses, cleaning screens, removing solid matters and collecting sewage and sludge samples. Unusual or major problems are reported to a senior operator for resolutions. Work is normally performed under direction of a Plant Operator II or III and is reviewed primarily by observation and through the analysis of charts and reports. Due to nature of work, beards or facial hair that will interfere with the sealing of a SCBA mask will not be permitted.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Inspects wastewater treatment plant equipment and machinery to determine that all machinery is operating properly; takes samples of effluent and sludge at various stages of the treatment process, performs routine laboratory and bacteriological analysis to determine effectiveness of treatment procedures and record results.

Adjusts control devices of processes to provide effective treatment; operates gates, valves and other mechanical equipment; inspects and adjusts treatment plant equipment, such as chlorinators, digesters, sludge collectors, filters, chemical feeders, conveyor systems, screens, and related equipment; inspects records charts and meters and on the basis of recorded information makes adjustments to controls in conformance with operating instructions.

Operates sludge processing equipment and belt presses.

Performs light maintenance services on a variety of plant equipment and machinery and may assist mechanics in major repairs and installation work.

Reads and records data registered on telemetering gauges involving remote pump stations or treatment plants.

Instructs, trains and may supervise other operators in plant procedures and operations; maintain records and prepares periodic summary reports of operations.

Reports malfunctions of equipment to senior operator.

May be required to perform various grounds maintenance duties as assigned.

Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions required of work.

POSITION TITLE: Operator I

Considerable knowledge of the operating principles and practices applicable to wastewater treatment plant process control. Some knowledge of mechanical maintenance and lubrication requirements of the equipment operated.

Ability to accurately follow routine operating and recording procedures and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Ability to instruct subordinate operators in plant operations.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing. Ability to input information into a CRT computer terminal following basic oral or written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees as necessitated by the work.

Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.

Ability to detect faulty operating characteristics in equipment or processes and make minor mechanical repairs or adjustments.

Ability to maintain accurate and detailed operating records.

Ability to perform various physical duties such as walking, climbing stairs and ladders, twisting, turning, lifting heavy items, digging, shoveling and manually operating gates and valves.

Ability to work shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Ability to work in extreme weather conditions, exposed to noxious fumes, toxic chemicals, insects and loud noises from machinery.

Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from a standard high school or possession of G.E.D.

Possession of a valid Driver’s License form state of residence.

Possession of a State of Texas Class C Wastewater Treatment Operator’s license and a State of Arkansas Class II Wastewater Treatment Operator’s license or the ability to obtain same within two years of employment.

Must have a home telephone or be able to be contacted in the event of an emergency work situation.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $36,129.60 - $48,776.00 per year

Benefits:

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

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Night shift
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $36,130 - $48,776