Treatment Plant Operator - Environmental Services

TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR - ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

DEFINITION

To operate and maintain the City's water and wastewater treatment plant and pumping facilities; to clean and protect the downstream water for users; and to operate and maintain various pump equipment and production facilities in support of the City's water system.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Treatment Plant Chief Operator and upper management.

ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Functions:

1. Inspect pumps and gauges in either the water or wastewater treatment plant; record all vital information on production totals; adjust gauges as appropriate.

2. Collect water samples; perform chemical tests; determine chemical needs of the water; calculate chemical dosages and add appropriate chemicals to water as needed.

3. Service treatment plant machinery by filling oil levels, changing oil, inspecting cooling levels, and blowing off condensation.

4. Regulate and maintain proper water levels in towers and clear wells.

5. Check chemical residuals in finished water to ensure proper dosages.

6. Inspect all pumps, gauges, and water and wastewater treatment equipment for malfunctions or leaks; diagnose needed repairs; perform maintenance and repairs as needed.

7. Perform regular testing of equipment and machinery to maintain quality assurance and high performance.

8. Transfer sludge from primary to secondary digester as needed.

9. Collect water and wastewater samples using a pH meter in adherence to local, State and Federal guidelines and standards; transport samples to the treatment plant laboratory.

10. Prepare and maintain a variety of reports, logs, meters, and charts.

11. Must have acceptable attendance and work well with people.

12. Any specific requirements that are specified in the "letter of employment offer".

13. Safety for oneself and others is a primary responsibility of every employee.

Marginal Functions:

1. Perform grounds maintenance functions on treatment plant property including mowing and weed eating; service and clean all mowing and trimming equipment used in grounds maintenance.

2. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

Operations, services and activities of a water or wastewater treatment plant.

Operational characteristics of water pump equipment and tools used in the maintenance and repair of pumping facilities.

Methods and techniques of pump installation, repair and regulation.

Chemical coagulation and settling processes.

Water treatment and wastewater cycles.

Principles of hydraulics.

Reservoir and pump capabilities to regulate water flow.

Chlorine formulas and testing techniques.

Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Basic mathematical calculations.

Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes, and regulations.

Required Skills and Competencies:

Operate a variety of water and wastewater control and pumping equipment in a safe and effective manner.

Recognize improper pump operation through visual inspection or auditory inspection.

Repair water and wastewater control and pumping equipment.

Calculate chemical needs of water based on analysis results.

Prepare clear and concise reports.

Work independently in the absence of supervision.

Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include the following:

Walking or standing for extended periods of time

Operating assigned equipment.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:

Making observations

Communicating with others

Operating assigned equipment and vehicles.

Maintain mental capacity which allows for effective interaction and communication with others.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:

Two years of experience involving the operation of water or wastewater treatment plant equipment.

Training:

High School Diploma or GED required, supplemented by specialized training in water or wastewater treatment plant operations.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Environmental Conditions:

Work in a water or wastewater treatment plant environment; small or cramped work areas; loud machine noise; danger of heavy equipment; exposure to hazardous chemicals and high voltage.

Physical Conditions:

Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for moderate or light lifting; walking or standing for prolonged periods of time.

License or Certificate:

Possession of, or must obtain, a Water and Wastewater Operator License, Class "D" or higher, issued by the Oklahoma State Department of Health within 3 months of hire. A Class "C Water or Wastewater Lab License is required within 6 months of hire. A Class "B" Water or Wastewater Lab License within 1 year of hire date.

Valid Driver's License is required.