WWTP OPERATOR ASSISTANT

Description

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT ASSISTANT OPERATOR

Definition:  Under general supervision of the WPCD Operations Supervisor/Chief Operator, gains the necessary experience to secure higher level Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification. Upon receipt of Class III certification, the Operator Assistant will automatically be classified to WWTP Operator.  Such movement is not subject to standard Civil Service testing regulation.

Essential Functions: (Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics.  This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class).

Tasks: 

Monitors wastewater treatment process to ensure properly disinfected water is released.  Collects samples of raw and treated sewage.  Conducts tests to monitor solids and pH of effluent at various stages of treatment.  Maintains chlorine residual of the plant effluent within limits.  Monitors and maintains dissolved oxygen and pH of treatment processes.  Monitors plant system gauges and meters to ensure efficient plant operation.  Monitors pumps and other equipment to ensure proper operation.  Maintains accurate logs and records pump readings and values.  Notes any changes in processing in reports.

Removes foreign objects such as wood, metal, and plastic objects, clothing, etc. from wastewater.  Removes and disposes of sludge.  Runs belt filter presses to load dump trucks with sludge removed during treatment process.  Maintains plant and grounds, including cleaning, cutting grass, snow removal, painting, etc.  Assists laboratory personnel in analysis of samples as requested.  Assists mechanics in repair of plant equipment as required.  Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Characteristics:

• Knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and techniques used in the maintenance and operation of a wastewater treatment plant.
• Knowledge of occupational appropriate safety precautions.
• Knowledge of proper handling of chlorine and other chemicals used in wastewater treatment.
• Knowledge of the uses and capabilities of various wastewater treatment systems and related equipment.
• Knowledge of State and Federal regulations, standards, and criteria regarding the discharge effluent.
• Knowledge of general building/grounds maintenance and repair practices.
• Skill in the application of communication an interpersonal skill as applied to interaction with co-workers, supervisor, and the general public, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.
• Skill in operating and maintaining treatment plant equipment.
• Skill in performing simple laboratory analysis to effectively carry out duties assigned.
• Skill in identifying and maintaining confidentiality of sensitive and important information while using diplomacy and tact.

Materials and Equipment: 

Pump Equipment                                   Laboratory Equipment               Meters and Gauges

Power Tools (presses, pumps, etc.)       Hand Tools (wrenches, shovel, mower, weed eater, etc.)         

Mental and Physical Abilities:  Mental work efforts involve application of oral and written instruction requiring routine decisions and assuming responsibility for methodologies in work which may impact the City’s ability to maintain safe and productive treatment plants.  Physical requirements include the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time, ability to move moderate (25-50 lbs.) materials infrequently, ability to stoop, bend, and twist while performing laborer duties.

Working Conditions:  Work involves constant exposure to adverse weather conditions, loud noises, heavy equipment, raw sewage, hazardous chemicals, and moving mechanical parts

Qualifications

Qualifications:  High School diploma or GED and eligibility for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator licensure through the State of WV BPH.  Shall be required to secure other related certifications as determined by Federal, State and Division regulations. 

FLSA Status:  Non-exempt

Special Qualifications/Notations: Must secure an OIT licensure within one year of employment and show progressive movement towards achieving Class III licensure.  Failure to demonstrate progressive movement may result in disciplinary action including immediate termination.  Progressive movement towards licensure is defined as: Class 1 – after 1 year of employment, Class 2 – after 2 years, Class 3 – after 4 years, and Class IV – after 5 years.