Wastewater Operator-In-Training

General Purpose

The principal function of an employee in this class is to work effectively with others to perform a variety of wastewater operations and maintenance duties, some of which may require acquired skills, physical abilities, and manual dexterity. This is an entry-level position as the individual gains experience and training to meet the qualifications and expectations of a wastewater operator. The work is performed under the direction of the wastewater foreman but some latitude is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative.

The principal duties of this class are performed in a shop and outdoor environment that may involve inclement weather and potential personal hazards.

Knowledge of:

• Methods, procedures, equipment, standard practices, and objectives and standards of storm water and wastewater collection processes;
• Federal (OSHA) and state regulations and city policies regarding safety training and safe work practices.

• Operate and maintain wastewater and storm systems.
• Adhere to city, state and federal safety requirements and regulations.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with supervisor, co-workers, city officials, city employees, and the public.
• Exercise sound judgment and generate workable solutions in problem situations.
• Produce and maintain accurate and legible reports and documents.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the public under sometimes stressful conditions.
• Maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
• Perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines.
• Operate standard office equipment and a personal computer using program applications appropriate to assigned duties.
• Demonstrate integrity, ingenuity, and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.
• Use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions according to written specifications and/or oral instructions.

(Duties will vary depending on assignment and therefore the following list is illustrative only)

• Complying with federal and state requirements concerning water, wastewater and pretreatment;
• Assisting in checking liftstation pumps, storm pumps and buildings; logging onto SCADA systems; locating, servicing and replacing sewer lines; calling Digline for locates; back filling and sodding; taking samples; delivering official notices and shutting off water when necessary;
• Assist in cleaning storm drains and sewer mains; standardizing instruments, pumps, valves, and making daily inspection of mechanical and electrical operating conditions of equipment.
• Implementing weed abatement; maintaining equipment and vehicles;
• Performing general maintenance, recording actions taken, and reporting considerations to wastewater foreman.
• Operating a variety of vehicles and heavy equipment, including but not limited to tractor mowers, dump trucks, front end loaders and attachments, backhoes, water tankers, snow removal vehicles, sewer cleaning equipment and CCTV equipment;
• Operating a variety of hand tools and power equipment including but not limited to jackhammers, electrical testing equipment, metal detector, welder;
• Performing installation and repair work including digging and back filling trenches; installing and repairing pipelines, including cutting, tapping, threading;
• Removing snow from streets, sidewalks, parking lots and other public areas.
• Responding promptly to public and organizational needs.
• Developing and maintaining positive working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, subordinates, the general public, and other individuals or groups encountered through this position.
• Performing all duties with regard for personal safety and that of other employees and the public.
• Providing assistance and expertise to other city departments, agencies, and staff.
• Performing all work duties and activities in accordance with City and Department policies, procedures and safety practices.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• May serve as a member on various…