Wastewater Operator

Position: Wastewater Operator I

Wastewater Operator I – City of Burlington, NC

Who We Are

The East Burlington Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) was commissioned in 1959 and upgraded in 1993. It treats 12 million gallons per day (MGD) of domestic and industrial sewage using a biological process. The plant disinfects water with chlorine and dechlorinates it before discharge into the Haw River. Biosolids are processed and used as a soil conditioner on surrounding farms.

What You Will Do

An employee in this class monitors and operates the wastewater treatment plant.

Plant Monitoring & Equipment Operation

• Conduct regular plant tours to ensure optimal operation of bar screens, grit collector, engines, generators, pumps, aerators, settling tanks, filters, clarifiers, cooling systems, and water filters.
• Record readings from SCADA, meters, and instruments for accurate data collection.

Operational Adjustments & Chemical Management

• Adjust motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and apparatus based on dynamic plant conditions.
• Apply chemicals and monitor their effects to maintain system stability.

Sample Collection & Lab Testing

• Collect state and process control samples for lab analysis and conduct routine tests to monitor treatment efficiency.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Skim floatables from settling tanks, clean bar screens, dispose of sand and debris, and wash basins and clarifiers for optimal performance.
• Assist Lead Operators with minor repairs and preventive maintenance tasks as required.

Customer Service & Communication

• Answer calls, address inquiries, and provide responsive customer service as needed.

General Wastewater Operations

• Perform all necessary wastewater and plant duties to maintain seamless operations and plant integrity.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of wastewater treatment operations and maintenance needs for efficient and safe plant operation.
• Regulatory awareness of state and federal wastewater rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and hazard management in wastewater operations.
• Analytical and testing skills: proficiency in routine tests, meter reading, SCADA systems, and chart interpretation.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with additional vocational training in mechanics, electronics, or chemistry and some experience in wastewater treatment, or an equivalent combination.
• Valid North Carolina Driver's License.

Special Requirements

• Must acquire a Grade 1 Wastewater Certificate within 6 months of employment.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Work is described as strenuous and involves physical operations such as balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions.
• Visual acuity is required for accurate and thorough work, including operating machinery and inspecting small defects.
• Exposure to mechanical parts, electrical current, noise, vibration, oils, and atmospheric conditions; respirator required when necessary.
• Work may involve close quarters, crawl spaces, shafts, manholes, and enclosed rooms, requiring function in narrow aisles and passageways.
• Both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions apply.

FLSA Status

Non‑Exempt

Inclement Weather Classification

Essential

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