Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of this classification is to provide entry-level water treatment plant operation work at the training level involving learning the principles and procedures of water plant operations, assisting plant operators, demonstrating an ability to understand and operate process equipment, and performing basic plant maintenance functions.

Under close supervision, Operator Trainee will perform a wide range of job tasks on the water treatment system and facilities: process monitoring; equipment start-up and shut-down; basic maintenance; cleaning; housekeeping; recording readings; recordkeeping; and may operate computers for process control and monitoring using the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. This work requires that the employee have some knowledge, skill and ability in general laboring work.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Learn and put into practice all safety procedures. Work safely at all times.
• Learn and put into practice basic plant procedures for water treatment.
• Learn plant equipment operations, methods and standard operating procedures.
• Assist plant operators in plant operation, inspection and maintenance tasks at all facilities.
• Monitor water treatment system operations, review flow trends and equipment status, note operational problems, and recommend adjustments.
• Follow proper procedures to gather samples and records information.
• Operate emergency generators.
• Perform basic laboratory tests.
• Maintain a variety of records and reports related to water system operations.
• Use tools, equipment and materials responsibly.
• Learn state and federal rules/regulations that apply to District water treatment.
• May be required to work on different shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on plant needs and training availability.
• Perform other related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of a supervisor, crew leader or certified plant operator.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A high school diploma and strong desire to learn about water treatment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Must possess a Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) Operator in Training Certification or within 6 months of employment must be able to validate a minimum of 6 CEUs in CT DPH approved Water Treatment Facilities operation courses.
• Within the first year of employment must obtain a minimum of 9 CEUs in CT DPH approved Water Treatment Facilities operation courses
• Must obtain a Class I Water Operator Certificate (or higher) within two years of employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the tools, equipment, controls, and methods of general laboring work.
• Knowledge of the work standards and safety procedures in general laboring work.
• Skill in the operation of computers and plant-related systems and software, and ability to perform data entry.
• Skill in the use of hand tools, power equipment and controls in plant operations.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and to learn District procedures. Ability to communicate orally.
• Ability to perform water treatment work safely, effectively and efficiently.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers.

ADA COMPLIANCE

Physical Ability: Tasks require the ability to exert moderate physical effort that involves lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (50 pounds and under).

Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate visual and/or auditory cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally and in writing.

Environmental Factors: Essential functions are performed both indoors and outdoors, with potential exposure to any or all of the following: various weather/temperature conditions, high or deep dangerous places, working near moving mechanical/heavy industrial equipment, risk of electric shock, vibration, fumes, airborne particles, chemicals, loud and/or reoccurring noises, raw sewage, activated sludge and dewatered sludge.

The Metropolitan District Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Commission will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.