Operator I

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Operations Division Chief
Operations & Maintenance Chief
Operations & Maintenance Supervisor II
Operations & Maintenance Supervisor I
Operator, Chief
Operator, Senior 
Operator III
Operator II

POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for performing the duties in the operation of water or wastewater treatment plant or a raw water pump station. Duties involve routine inspection of plant processes and equipment. Works under close supervision while consulting with direct supervisor when changes are necessary. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Monitors plant operations by observation, instrumentation and laboratory test results and makes adjustments to predetermined parameters. 

2. Monitors plant process using field instrumentation and process knowledge. Performs laboratory tests.  

3. Under the direct supervision of a C level or greater licensed operator observes and adjusts the plants’ flows and treatment process conditions by monitoring the status of production via hands on or remotely via SCADA. 

4. Monitors condition of mechanical equipment and notifies appropriate personnel of needed repairs or any operational problems. Performs minor preventative maintenance to facilities in a safe and effective manner and may include grounds maintenance where needed. 

5. Takes samples at various operating points in the plant process. Responsible for general housekeeping. 

6. Responsible for maintaining thorough and complete process records and logs. May assist with  data input into computer system. 

7. Observes all safety guidelines as initiated by the Authority, in addition to being aware and responsive to plant security issues. May be responsible for plant security during night shift. Takes action to protect certain structures and equipment under emergency flood conditions. Assists in the safe handling and unloading of chemicals in the plant. May be responsible for responding to various emergency situations as directed by supervisor. 

8. Performs other duties as assigned. 

9. May be responsible for responding to various emergency situations, including after-hours, as directed by supervisor. 

10. Employees assigned to this position are classified as essential personnel.  Essential personnel are required to report to work when scheduled during departmental and/or emergency situations including, but not limited to, extended periods of inclement weather when travel may be difficult.  This position is essential because in the absence of sufficient personnel, the plant cannot operate safely.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not regularly provide work leadership or full personnel management to any employees.

EDUCATION
High school diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE

Entry Level

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (or predecessor agency) Class D Water or Wastewater Operator's Certificate of Competency is required within the first year of employment. A Class C Certificate is required before three years of employment. A valid Texas driver’s license is also required.

KNOWLEDGE

Within six months requires a limited knowledge of principles and practices of water and/or wastewater treatment. Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, etc.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Within six months of employment, must be able to independently conduct lab tests per Standard Operating Procedures  (SOP), interpret results and identify equipment malfunction with limited supervision.  The ability to communicate essential information and document daily activities to ensure proper plant operation. Must possess the ability to perform basic math calculations.

GUIDANCE RECEIVED

Receives ongoing detailed supervision, follows standard procedures  and/or detailed instructions for each task or assignment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires passing a physical and physical ability assessment specific to this position. 

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions include exposure to adverse weather, odor, noise, chemical hazards, gases and dust, standing for prolonged periods of time, walking up and down several flights of stairs, climbing and descending ladders, working at heights, and working in tight or confined spaces.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Hand tools, broom, sample collectors, flow meters, high pressure hoses,  field meters, test kits, lab equipment, Authority vehicles, general and/or specialized material handling equipment. Subject to the use of respirators, SCBA's, PPE and other safety equipment as required.