Wastewater Plant Operator I

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee is currently accepting applications for a Wastewater Plant Operator I with Water & Sewer Services at the Brush Creek WWTP. The employee performs responsible semiskilled work in a trainee capacity on an assigned shift; performs routine tasks in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant; does related work as required. This is routine but responsible plant operation work. An employee in this class is responsible for the constant operation and maintenance of the continuously operating processes his shift. The work is performed in accordance with procedures outlined by a Wastewater Plant Operator II, III, or Chief Wastewater Plant Operator to whom unusual or emergency problems are referred. Employees whose positions are in this class are not required to be licensed; however, they are expected to have the ability to obtain a Grade IV Wastewater Plant Operator's Certificate issued by the State of Tennessee before becoming eligible for promotion to Wastewater Plant Operator II.

Essential Functions of Position:

• makes regular inspections of plant and equipment to ascertain that it is in proper operation at all times;
• collects and stores samples;
• controls the transfer of the volume of sewage from settling tanks to digester;
• skims scum and grease from settling tanks;
• replaces chlorine and sodium bisulfite pump tubing and regulates the flow of chlorine and sodium bisulfite;
• continually checks the disinfection system to ensure proper operation;
• starts, stops and makes minor repairs to pumps, motors and equipment;
• reads meters, gauges and dials, and keeps logs of readings;
• reports needs for major equipment repairs;
• assists Utility Maintenance Mechanics on major repairs and overhauls;
• performs D.O., pH, and related laboratory operational tests;
• cleans and performs routine maintenance tasks on buildings and grounds;
• Loads sludge trucks with dewatered sludge cake;
• keeps records and makes reports;
• occasionally substitutes for a Wastewater Plant Operator II in his absence;
• Interacts with septage haulers including inspecting tank volumes and signing tickets;
• Participates in the lone worker remote monitoring program;
• Monitoring plant and pump station alarms through SCADA or field observations and reporting issues in a timely manner;
• performs related tasks as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Some knowledge of modern wastewater treatment plant operating practices; mechanical ability; ability to inspect plant machinery in operation and to detect flaws; ability to keep records and make reports; mechanical aptitude. Dexterity to operate machinery. Ability to operate and troubleshoot dewatering equipment independently after training has completed. Ability to learn proper operation of new equipment.

Acceptable Experience and Training: Graduate of a recognized high school or its equivalent and some experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant; or any combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform in this position. Pre-employment physical, drug screening and background check required.

EEO