What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wastewater Plant Operator position at Stafford County?
Looking for a career where no two days are the same? Join our team as a Wastewater Plant Operator and take an active role in operating and maintaining critical treatment systems. From monitoring advanced equipment to ensuring optimal plant performance, you’ll be at the heart of essential infrastructure that serves our entire community!
This position performs responsible semiskilled work assisting in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plant equipment on an assigned shift and does related work as required. Work is performed under immediate supervision.
The Wastewater Plant Operator is part of Stafford County Utilities career ladder. Advancement is based on demonstrated proficiency in performing the assigned functions, demonstration of core competencies, completion of required certifications, and is at the discretion of the department manager.
There are four levels available for this position classification, the hiring salary ranges for those levels based on experience are:Wastewater Plant Operator (Class III):
Possession of a Class III Wastewater Plant Operator's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Wastewater Plant Operator (Class II):
Possession of a Class II Wastewater Plant Operator's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Wastewater Plant Operator (Class I):
This position performs responsible semiskilled work assisting in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plant equipment on an assigned shift and does related work as required. Work is performed under immediate supervision.
The Wastewater Plant Operator is part of Stafford County Utilities career ladder. Advancement is based on demonstrated proficiency in performing the assigned functions, demonstration of core competencies, completion of required certifications, and is at the discretion of the department manager.
There are four levels available for this position classification, the hiring salary ranges for those levels based on experience are:
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class IV) - Grade A08 - $24.78/hour to $34.08/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class III) - Grade A09 - $26.52/hour to $36.47/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class II) - Grade A10 - $28.38/hour to $39.03/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class I) - Grade A11 - $30.37/hour to $41.76/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class IV) - Grade A08 - $24.78/hour to $43.37/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class III) - Grade A09 - $26.52/hour to $46.41/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class II) - Grade A10 - $28.38/hour to $49.67/hour
- Wastewater Plant Operator (Class I) - Grade A11 - $30.37/hour to $53.15/hour
- Assists in the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant
- Performs regular inspections of plant and equipment to monitor performance
- Monitors and records readings from meters, gauges, and instruments
- Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, compressors, grinders, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions
- Operates and maintains a sludge dewatering centrifuge and related equipment
- Regulates and adjusts solids dewatering equipment to ensure proper functioning and performance
- Conducts laboratory analyses of raw and treated samples
- Inspects plant buildings and equipment, notes need for maintenance and repair work
- Consults with superiors on unusual operating problems or the need for major repairs to equipment
- Cleans and clears catch basins, troughs, and other components
- Prepares and maintains records and reports
- Performs general building and grounds maintenance work
- Performs related tasks as required
- Some knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of the wastewater treatment equipment in the plant including solids waste handling systems
- Some knowledge of the occupational hazards of work and of necessary safety precautions
- Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions
- Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations
- Ability to respond to plant emergencies or system alarms outside of regular work hours
High school diploma or GED required. Experience in wastewater treatment operations, plant maintenance, or laboratory analysis preferred.
Special Requirements
- Must possess or be able to obtain a Virginia Class IV Wastewater Plant Operator's license issued by DPOR within (18) months of employment.
- Must be able to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and respond to after work emergencies.
- Required to complete continuing education and maintain licensure in accordance with DPOR regulations.
- Must complete all assigned training including safety, cybersecurity awareness, and other training assigned as part of onboarding and recurring staff development to ensure safe handling of the plants network system.
- Possession of a driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Possession of a Class III Wastewater Plant Operator's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Wastewater Plant Operator (Class II):
Possession of a Class II Wastewater Plant Operator's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Wastewater Plant Operator (Class I):
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and 3 to 5 years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a Class I water treatment plant. Associates degree or coursework in water technology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
Special Requirements
- Possession of a Valid Class I Waterworks Operator License issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Possession of a driver’s license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Availability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays as required for 24-hour operations.
- Ability to respond to plant emergencies outside of regular work hours.
Salary : $8 - $25