Water Treatment Plant Operator

This entry level position is responsible for performing a full range of duties essential to the operation of the water treatment plant. This individual will work under general supervision and perform routine and non‑routine tasks requiring a level of skill and judgment where incorrect decision or action could result in serious risk of physical harm to operator, costly damage to equipment, health hazard to the public, or violations to State and Federal permits.

Employees of higher classification may check progress of work and provide instruction on work involving unusual problems or use of unfamiliar equipment.

• Perform all routine maintenance on WTP reservoirs, pump stations, and some PRV equipment, such as lubrication, oil changes, belt changes, and adjust belts and drives.
• Perform routine repair work, such as disassembly, repair, and installation of valves, switches, process instrumentation, motors, and related equipment.
• Perform basic technical work in the maintenance and repair of Water Treatment Systems and maintain meters, pumps, valves, air blowers, electrical controls, control panels and related equipment.
• Perform a variety of minor electrical installations and repairs.
• Perform daily inspections of all system facilities and equipment, record data properly in the asset management system and correct problems and notify superior.
• Participate in troubleshooting equipment failure or loss of efficiency, and operational problems by analyzing trending patterns.
• Perform plant and landscape maintenance duties, including inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of tanks, painting, minor carpentry and plumbing, minor electrical repairs, and mowing and trimming lawns and vegetation.
• Maintain equipment and facilities in a clean and orderly condition.
• Operate a variety of equipment including specialized testing equipment.
• Perform all work in accordance with laws, rules, regulations, and in compliance with all departmental safety policies and procedures, including using appropriate safety devices and equipment.
• Advise Lead and coworkers of work progress and any changes in work conditions.
• Operate SCADA controlled equipment and process monitoring instrumentation related to the water treatment and distribution system.
• Collect raw water, in‑process and finished samples for in‑house and outside analysis.
• Conduct various laboratory tests and maintain appropriate records.
• Enter data into and assist in maintenance of laboratory software program.
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner, provide information within scope of knowledge and refer to supervisor as appropriate. May conduct public tours of the water treatment plant.
• Participate in a rotating weekend shift in the Water Treatment Plant.
• Predictable and regular attendance required.
• Collect, analyze and transport distribution system samples per permitting requirements.

• Basic knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic theory and application, and be able to read and use manuals and other resources.
• Basic knowledge of methods, techniques, materials, tools, and equipment used in maintenance, repair and construction work.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices and procedures applicable to assigned work.
• Knowledge of confined space procedures and use and containment of hazardous chemicals or ability to obtain within six (6) months.
• Basic knowledge of lock out/tag out procedures, or ability to obtain training within six (6) months.
• Ability to use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment, power tools and equipment required for the work in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ability to operate a personal computer including spreadsheets, databases, word processing, and asset management software.
• Ability to make sound decisions in the event of extraordinary situations such as equipment malfunctions, rapid deterioration of water quality, or power outages, to ensure the quality of finished water and protect public health. May be required to exercise this judgment while unsupervised.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely and follow instructions, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work…