WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

General Statement of Duties

Performs responsible operational, laboratory, and maintenance functions in a water or wastewater treatment plant.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class performs a variety of operational, laboratory, and maintenance duties designed to produce safe treatment of potable water, and disposal of domestic and commercial wastewater. Work is performed on an assigned or rotating shift. Work includes monitoring the plant's operation through observation, mechanical readings and the results of standard chemical and biological tests and to make necessary adjustments in the process as conditions or test results dictate. Other duties include performing standard laboratory duties and tests and assisting with plant and facilities maintenance. Work also includes substantial record keeping of work activities.

Employees are subject to hazards associated with wastewater and plant operations including working both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, working in small spaces such as sewer pipes, and oils. Workers may be required to wear respirators when working around chlorine tanks. Work around wastewater is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on bloodborne pathogens. Work is performed under general supervision and reviewed by observation, conference, and reviewing records for adherence to operations standards, instructions, and safety practices.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Tasks

• Makes regular tours of plant and checks bar screens, generators, pumps, settling tanks, filters, clarifiers, chlorinators, and other equipment for proper functioning.
• Records data from various meters, gauges and dials; logs daily, weekly, and monthly activities.
• Performs standard laboratory chemical and biological tests.
• Performs general preventive and scheduled maintenance; assists on major maintenance and repairs.
• Fills various chemical tanks; starts and stops pumps.
• Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.
• Performs routine building and grounds maintenance including cleaning, mowing, and painting.

Additional Job Duties

• Collects water and wastewater samples.
• Performs related duties as required.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirement of water and Wastewater Treatment Plants.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and permitting requirements.
• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions.