Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I - Lab Tech

Special Requirements

The person in this position must have a valid driver's license, and the ability to ultimately obtain a Class IV Wastewater certification.

Education

A high school diploma or its equivalent is required, and a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology or related discipline is preferred. Additionally, experience in a laboratory setting is also preferred.

Physical Demands

Physical work involved with this position includes, but is not limited to walking, lifting, and climbing and standing.

Work Environment

The person in this position is supervised more than once daily, and has no supervisory authority. The Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator/Lab Technician works regular hours year-round with occasional overtime and night work when the workload demands it. The person on this position is always on call. 60% of the work for this position is indoors, and 40% is outdoors and requires work done in all types of weather conditions. This person has accountability for safety and legal issues related to work for which this position is responsible. There is exposure to chemicals and/or hazardous materials on a daily basis. This exposure includes, but is not limited to, chlorine, sulfur dioxide, and laboratory chemicals. At least two years of experience in this or a related field is highly recommended.

Selection Guidelines

Formal application, rating of education and experience; Oral interview and background investigation; and job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended to be used only as an illustration of various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job may change.

Purpose of Position

Operate and maintain the City of Oxford Wastewater Treatment Plant and assist with laboratory activities with the opportunity to advance to lab supervisor.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Supervision Received

The immediate supervisor for this position is the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent.

Supervision Exercised

None.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintain Wastewater Treatment Plant Equipment
• Ensure equipment is running properly
• Perform preventative maintenance and repairs on equipment
• Maintain Plant Grounds
• Mow lawns
• Pick up paper and other debris
• Attend training sessions and seminars for professional development
• Maintain skills and knowledge necessary for proper waste water treatment
• Read publications dealing with waste water to remain aware of changes in the field
• Maintain all necessary certifications
• Assist in all laboratory procedures
• Pull and analyze samples
• Take data calculations and apply them to the monthly
• Discharge Monitoring Reports
• Assist the Superintendent in waste water purification
• Perform other duties as directed

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge:

• Biology or chemistry as it relates to water Pumps
• Electricity Compressors
• Laboratory testing procedures
• Wastewater treatment procedures required for a Class I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
• Proper grammar and proper use of English in speaking and writing
• OSHA standards and regulations concerning employee safety Federal and state statutes concerning the work of the department
• Mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication
• General functions and operations of municipal government

Skills and Abilities:

• Maintain continuing education credits involving basic Chemistry and Biology Work with various types of lab equipment
• Work as a team member with other employees
• Make decisions within specified time restraints
• Communicate effectively with residents, elected officials, other City employees, contractors, etc., both orally and written
• Maintain confidentiality
• Work autonomously when necessary
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously with frequent interruptions
• Deal with others in a professional manner
• Maintain professional composure in heated situations
• Follow departmental and City procedures