What are the responsibilities and job description for the Water O&M Technician - Laurel position at WSSC Water?
The Water Operations & Maintenance Technician (O&M) performs routine and critical work to support the operation and maintenance of water treatment plant equipment and facilities.
Essential Functions
Entry Level:
Assists with the collection and analysis of samples of plant processes and receiving waters
Assists with the operation and monitoring equipment and processes, with potential exposure
to chemical, electrical, thermal and noise and hazards
Assists with operating and maintaining equipment in facilities such as filters, chemical feeders, belt presses, gravity thickeners, augers, mixers, etc.
Assists with evaluating the performance of mechanical equipment and conveyance systems;
Assists with interpreting conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Monitors Chemical Treatment Processes and makes adjustments as directed
Assists with handling material shipments and inventory, and locates spare parts from inventory system
Assists with overhauling specialty valves or swap out valves in the plant
Climbs into basins to include 30-foot depths, using rigging equipment to lift equipment
Assists with conducting general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials
Assists with making basic repairs for pneumatic and hydraulic control systems on valves and
process equipment
Uses TEAMS / CMMS to create record data from parameters gathered, work orders and other administrative tasks such as accessing backlog, adding material to work orders, and finding parts in WSSC Water warehouses
Operates WSSC Water motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required
Maintains records, performs calculations, and assists in preparing reports
Inspects motors for heat, noise and vibration and performs motor lubrication and cleaning
Calibrates UV sensors, isolates UV reactors, and changes UV lamps and quartz sleeves
Uses the computer for data entry and process control
Conducts proper operation of solids dewatering processes during off shifts
Level I :
Performs periodic tests (and calculates daily averages) for chlorine, pH and turbidity
Adjusts water treatment chemical dosages as directed by more senior O&M Technicians and records actions
Draws samples of water for laboratory analysis; performs routine chemical analyses of water undergoing treatment in accordance with regulatory requirements
Unloads and changes chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks
Receives and monitors chemical deliveries and interacts with delivery driver for water treatment chemicals, including polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime, phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide, and sodium bisulfite
Monitors raw, settled, filter effluent and treated water turbidity and filter backwash processes;
Starts and stops large pumps
Makes minor repairs to pumps and purification equipment
Maintains communication with control center
Performs weekly and monthly preventive maintenance for process equipment, in accordance with established schedule including cleaning, lubrication, and oil/grease changes
Assists in identifying factors that could cause water treatment process upsets, particularly during abnormal conditions.
Level II:
Performs all entry-level and Level I functions noted above
Coordinates work of and trains less experienced personnel during shift operations or during the performance of major tasks
Closely monitors and controls water treatment processes and equipment through SCADA system Human Machine Interface ( HMI )
Coordinates water treatment chemical deliveries to ensure offloading to appropriate storage tanks with adequate capacities including such chemicals as polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide and sodium bisulfite
Oversees the unloading and change out of chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; loads; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks while ensuing appropriate safety equipment is in use at all times
Troubleshoots abnormal conveyance system and treatment process operations and conditions
Performs preventive action to avoid process upsets caused by unusual circumstances, loss of power, and abnormal plant operations
Other Functions
Entry Level:
Performs considerable amount of work outdoors in all types of weather including shoveling and plowing snow
Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
Performs major housekeeping
Keeps supervisors informed relative to facility status
Performs other related duties as required
Level I :
Performs laboratory sampling, testing and analysis to ensure compliance with state and federal water quality standards
Maintains records, fills in reports; contributes to a daily log of plant operations
Cleans intake
Conducts general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials
Operates and maintains pumping stations with general understanding of pump and pump station configuration, lubrication, and equipment
Monitors disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorine system, and recognizes alarm conditions
Calibrates process control equipment and instrumentation such as lab equipment, pH meters, turbidity meters, chlorine analyzers, and DO meters
Operates chemical feed system for coagulants and other chemical application systems
Enters data into computer to update records and uses the computer to aid in monitoring and controlling plant processes
Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Performs related duties as required
Level II :
In the absence of the superintendent or the operator in charge, makes operational decisions based on directives from the superintendent, operator in charge or standard operating procedures
Regulates valves, observes flow gauges, and performs calculations
Maintains handwritten and computerized records, fills in reports, and keeps a daily log of plant operations
Performs extensive repairs to pumps and purification equipment and repairs pneumatic and hydraulic control systems
Operates and maintains process control instrumentation
Operates and troubleshoots process equipment for valve operation, pump start, backwash flow rates, and gravity filters
Monitors, calibrates and maintains chemical feed systems including disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorinators and chlorinator vacuum systems
Uses TEAMS / CMMS to perform administrative tasks such as closing out work orders, maintenance and routine work requests
Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Performs related duties as required
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Ability to climb ladders and elevated storage tanks, perform scaffolding, work in elevated and confined spaces, and descend underground
Ability to lift objects up to 50 pounds
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and sounds to detect abnormal equipment conditions
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at anytime of the day or night (contact lenses are not permitted on the job)
Ability to effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
Potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise, radioactive hazards and all weather conditions
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Entry Level:
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
Knowledge of basic mathematics skills which include arithmetic functions, area calculations
and estimation
Ability to use hand tools and power tool
Ability to maintain clear written records of activities and effectively communicate information
verbally
Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations
Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, and effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and detect abnormal
equipment sounds
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at any time of the day or night
Ability and willingness to learn processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook
Ability to enter plant process data into computer software
Level I :
Knowledge of water treatment process and procedures involving water quality issues, water characteristics, chemical handling, and operating conditions
Ability to understand the function and servicing of mechanical equipment, piping, valves and other related equipment used in the water treatment process
Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process
Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis
Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing as well as maintain legible written records
Skill in the use of tools and correcting minor operational problems in electrical and mechanical systems and equipment
Knowledge and understanding of drawings, schematics, specifications, and reference materials
Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and the ability to use enterprise computer programs
Level II
Extensive knowledge of water treatment process and procedures involving chemical dosing, water characteristics, and UV operation
Knowledge of the function and servicing of mechanical equipment
Ability to gain knowledge of WSSC Water’s Distribution System and the effect of abnormal conditions on the treatment plant
Ability to understand and effectively give direction both verbally and written
Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process
Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis
Ability to generate reports and update station log books, diaries, and inspections
Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, and to hear audible alarms and abnormal equipment noises
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes any time of day or night
Knowledge of processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
Intermediate level proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Ability to use enterprise computer programs
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
Entry-Level :
High School diploma or equivalent
Level I:
High School diploma (or equivalent)
1 years experience servicing mechanical equipment
Level II:
High School diploma or equivalent
3 years experience as an operator at a Water Treatment Class 4 Plant in Maryland or equivalent experience as an operator in another state
Essential Functions
Entry Level:
Assists with the collection and analysis of samples of plant processes and receiving waters
Assists with the operation and monitoring equipment and processes, with potential exposure
to chemical, electrical, thermal and noise and hazards
Assists with operating and maintaining equipment in facilities such as filters, chemical feeders, belt presses, gravity thickeners, augers, mixers, etc.
Assists with evaluating the performance of mechanical equipment and conveyance systems;
Assists with interpreting conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.
Monitors Chemical Treatment Processes and makes adjustments as directed
Assists with handling material shipments and inventory, and locates spare parts from inventory system
Assists with overhauling specialty valves or swap out valves in the plant
Climbs into basins to include 30-foot depths, using rigging equipment to lift equipment
Assists with conducting general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials
Assists with making basic repairs for pneumatic and hydraulic control systems on valves and
process equipment
Uses TEAMS / CMMS to create record data from parameters gathered, work orders and other administrative tasks such as accessing backlog, adding material to work orders, and finding parts in WSSC Water warehouses
Operates WSSC Water motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required
Maintains records, performs calculations, and assists in preparing reports
Inspects motors for heat, noise and vibration and performs motor lubrication and cleaning
Calibrates UV sensors, isolates UV reactors, and changes UV lamps and quartz sleeves
Uses the computer for data entry and process control
Conducts proper operation of solids dewatering processes during off shifts
Level I :
Performs periodic tests (and calculates daily averages) for chlorine, pH and turbidity
Adjusts water treatment chemical dosages as directed by more senior O&M Technicians and records actions
Draws samples of water for laboratory analysis; performs routine chemical analyses of water undergoing treatment in accordance with regulatory requirements
Unloads and changes chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks
Receives and monitors chemical deliveries and interacts with delivery driver for water treatment chemicals, including polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime, phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide, and sodium bisulfite
Monitors raw, settled, filter effluent and treated water turbidity and filter backwash processes;
Starts and stops large pumps
Makes minor repairs to pumps and purification equipment
Maintains communication with control center
Performs weekly and monthly preventive maintenance for process equipment, in accordance with established schedule including cleaning, lubrication, and oil/grease changes
Assists in identifying factors that could cause water treatment process upsets, particularly during abnormal conditions.
Level II:
Performs all entry-level and Level I functions noted above
Coordinates work of and trains less experienced personnel during shift operations or during the performance of major tasks
Closely monitors and controls water treatment processes and equipment through SCADA system Human Machine Interface ( HMI )
Coordinates water treatment chemical deliveries to ensure offloading to appropriate storage tanks with adequate capacities including such chemicals as polyaluminum chloride, hydrofluosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, lime phosphoric acid, potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, ferric chloride, sodium carbonate, polymers, sulfur dioxide and sodium bisulfite
Oversees the unloading and change out of chlorine cylinders; inspects chlorine building; loads; connects cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks while ensuing appropriate safety equipment is in use at all times
Troubleshoots abnormal conveyance system and treatment process operations and conditions
Performs preventive action to avoid process upsets caused by unusual circumstances, loss of power, and abnormal plant operations
Other Functions
Entry Level:
Performs considerable amount of work outdoors in all types of weather including shoveling and plowing snow
Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
Performs major housekeeping
Keeps supervisors informed relative to facility status
Performs other related duties as required
Level I :
Performs laboratory sampling, testing and analysis to ensure compliance with state and federal water quality standards
Maintains records, fills in reports; contributes to a daily log of plant operations
Cleans intake
Conducts general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials
Operates and maintains pumping stations with general understanding of pump and pump station configuration, lubrication, and equipment
Monitors disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorine system, and recognizes alarm conditions
Calibrates process control equipment and instrumentation such as lab equipment, pH meters, turbidity meters, chlorine analyzers, and DO meters
Operates chemical feed system for coagulants and other chemical application systems
Enters data into computer to update records and uses the computer to aid in monitoring and controlling plant processes
Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Performs related duties as required
Level II :
In the absence of the superintendent or the operator in charge, makes operational decisions based on directives from the superintendent, operator in charge or standard operating procedures
Regulates valves, observes flow gauges, and performs calculations
Maintains handwritten and computerized records, fills in reports, and keeps a daily log of plant operations
Performs extensive repairs to pumps and purification equipment and repairs pneumatic and hydraulic control systems
Operates and maintains process control instrumentation
Operates and troubleshoots process equipment for valve operation, pump start, backwash flow rates, and gravity filters
Monitors, calibrates and maintains chemical feed systems including disinfection processes, UV systems, chlorinators and chlorinator vacuum systems
Uses TEAMS / CMMS to perform administrative tasks such as closing out work orders, maintenance and routine work requests
Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Performs related duties as required
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Ability to climb ladders and elevated storage tanks, perform scaffolding, work in elevated and confined spaces, and descend underground
Ability to lift objects up to 50 pounds
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and sounds to detect abnormal equipment conditions
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at anytime of the day or night (contact lenses are not permitted on the job)
Ability to effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
Potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise, radioactive hazards and all weather conditions
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Entry Level:
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
Knowledge of basic mathematics skills which include arithmetic functions, area calculations
and estimation
Ability to use hand tools and power tool
Ability to maintain clear written records of activities and effectively communicate information
verbally
Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations
Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, and effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and detect abnormal
equipment sounds
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at any time of the day or night
Ability and willingness to learn processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook
Ability to enter plant process data into computer software
Level I :
Knowledge of water treatment process and procedures involving water quality issues, water characteristics, chemical handling, and operating conditions
Ability to understand the function and servicing of mechanical equipment, piping, valves and other related equipment used in the water treatment process
Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process
Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis
Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing as well as maintain legible written records
Skill in the use of tools and correcting minor operational problems in electrical and mechanical systems and equipment
Knowledge and understanding of drawings, schematics, specifications, and reference materials
Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and the ability to use enterprise computer programs
Level II
Extensive knowledge of water treatment process and procedures involving chemical dosing, water characteristics, and UV operation
Knowledge of the function and servicing of mechanical equipment
Ability to gain knowledge of WSSC Water’s Distribution System and the effect of abnormal conditions on the treatment plant
Ability to understand and effectively give direction both verbally and written
Ability to recognize normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and process
Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis
Ability to generate reports and update station log books, diaries, and inspections
Ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing
Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, and to hear audible alarms and abnormal equipment noises
Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes any time of day or night
Knowledge of processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
Intermediate level proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Ability to use enterprise computer programs
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
Entry-Level :
High School diploma or equivalent
Level I:
High School diploma (or equivalent)
1 years experience servicing mechanical equipment
Level II:
High School diploma or equivalent
3 years experience as an operator at a Water Treatment Class 4 Plant in Maryland or equivalent experience as an operator in another state
Benefits:
Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time OffSalary : $28 - $56