Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required
- Valid Florida driver's license required
- Ability to obtain a Florida FDEP Operator-in-Training (OIT) registration within a specified timeframe
- Ability to complete required coursework for Class C licensure
- Basic knowledge of math, chemistry, or biology preferred
Responsibilities:
Plant Monitoring & Operation
- Conduct routine inspections of plant equipment including pumps, motors, aerators, blowers, and valves to ensure proper operation.
- Monitor and record operational data from meters, gauges, and SCADA systems, including flow rates, tank levels, and system performance.
- Assist in adjusting valves, gates, and controls to regulate wastewater and sludge processes under supervision.
Laboratory & Quality Control
- Collect wastewater and process samples at various stages of treatment.
- Perform basic laboratory testing, including pH, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residual, and settleability (SVI).
- Assist with chemical handling, including mixing and application of treatment chemicals such as chlorine, polymers, and other process chemicals in accordance with FDEP standards.
Maintenance & Housekeeping
- Perform preventative maintenance such as lubricating equipment, changing oil, and cleaning tanks, screens, and filters.
- Assist with minor mechanical and electrical repairs.
- Maintain facility cleanliness and safety through general housekeeping, including washing structures, painting, and grounds maintenance.
Compliance & Safety
- Maintain accurate operational logs, reports, and records in accordance with FDEP and permit (F.A.C. 62-600 series) requirements.
- Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Participate in safety programs, including confined space entry and lockout/tagout procedures.
- Licensing & Certification Expectations (Florida DEP – Class C)
- As an Operator-in-Training, employees are expected to progress toward obtaining a Florida Class C Wastewater Operator License:
- OIT Registration: Must obtain and maintain FDEP OIT registration.
- Education Requirement: Complete an FDEP-approved wastewater treatment plant operations course (Class C level).
- Experience Requirement: Accumulate at least 1 year (approximately 2,080 hours) of acceptable on-the-job experience at a wastewater treatment facility under the supervision of a licensed operator, as defined by FDEP.
- State Examination: Successfully pass the Florida Class C Wastewater Operator examination administered through FDEP.
- Timeframe: Obtain Class C licensure within 24 months of hire. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, reassignment, or termination.
- Continuing Education: Maintain licensure by completing required Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during each renewal cycle (every 2 years) in accordance with FDEP requirements.
Certification & Career Progression
- This position is part of a structured progression toward FDEP Class C licensure
- Upon obtaining a Class C license, employees may advance to higher classifications (Class B and Class A) with additional experience and testing
- Continued professional development and advancement are encouraged
Working Conditions
- Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in Florida's varying weather conditions (heat, humidity, storms)
- Exposure to noise, odors, wastewater, and treatment chemicals
- Requires physical labor including lifting (up to 50–100 lbs), climbing ladders, and working in confined spaces
- Position may require rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call response