Operator

General Statement

Performs a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant including maintenance of equipment, quality control/testing and day-to-day activities on an assigned shift. This position typically holds or is working towards an intermediate level water/wastewater treatment certification.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operates treatment facilities to control flow and processing of water/ wastewater, sludge, and effluent

• Monitors gauges, meters, and control panels

• Observes variations in operating conditions and inter­prets meter and gauge readings

• Operates valves and gates either manually or by remote control

• Starts and stops pump, engines, and generators to control and adjust flow and treat­ment processes

• Maintains shift log and records meter and gauge read­ings

• Collects samples and performs routine laboratory tests and analyses

• Performs routine mainte­nance functions and custodial duties

• Makes operating decisions in absence of supervisory personnel

• Understands and carries out oral and written directions

• Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work

• Performs other duties as required

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED

• Certification at a level required by the State in which the project is located

• One year of experience in operating water/wastewater treatment plants

• Possess a valid drivers license

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic familiarity of the principles and practices of water/wastewater treatment plant opera­tions; operating principles of valves, pumps, and motors; prin­ciples and methods of bacteriological and chemical sewage analyses; effects and problems of industrial waste in water/wastewater treat­ment processes; safe work practices

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

The work area can involve a working environment indoors as well as outdoors, which could cause exposure to outdoor elements; proper environmental attire will be required. Some areas can have loud noise, active machinery, high pressure fluid systems, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights and depths, fumes, air borne particles, noxious gases, pathogens and various chemicals. The use of appropriate safety equipment will be mandatory in these areas to prevent hazardous contact.

Must be able to sit, stand, stoop, twist and bend at the waist, turn, kneel, squat, raise arms above shoulder height, grasp, reach, perform repetitive hand movements and fine coordination to work on equipment, have vision sufficient to service equipment, have hearing in the normal range with or without correction. In an 8-hour shift must be able to transport self across the facility, ascend and descend stair steps, lift objects up to 50 pounds from floor level to waist height, push a push-type mower; wear and use appropriate safety equipment.