Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator IV

Overview

This position is responsible for supervising and participating in the operation, maintenance, and repair of wastewater treatment facilities.

• Operate wastewater treatment machinery and equipment; monitor SCADA system and make operational adjustments as required; maintain and repair electrical, mechanical, and other systems; assist in installing plant equipment.
• Monitor raw and treated water flows; adjust flows and pumping rates as needed.
• Collect samples and perform laboratory tests; make control adjustments as indicated by results.
• Ensure compliance with NPDES permit requirements and with EPA and ADEM regulations.
• Train and supervise the work of assigned employees in wastewater treatment facilities biological processes, functions, maintenance, troubleshooting, and laboratory procedures.
• Perform preventive and reactive maintenance; formulate and execute approved maintenance plans; service screens, aerators, clarifiers, ultraviolet bulbs, etc.; maintain and repair blowers, pumps, valves, etc.
• Work with contractors and engineers to implement new treatment processes.
• Research and purchase supplies, parts, etc. as approved by supervisor.
• Respond to after‑hours emergencies.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment and plant instrumentation.
• Prepare a variety of regular and special reports; maintain related records.
• Perform plant security checks on gates, doors, fencing, etc.
• Maintain treatment plant grounds.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of safety policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment system maintenance and repair principles.
• Knowledge of wastewater plant operations principles and processes.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment rules, regulations, standards, and principles.
• Knowledge of relevant state and federal regulations.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of wastewater sample collection and analysis.
• Skill in the mechanical maintenance and repair of treatment plant equipment.
• Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles and equipment.
• Skill in the use of hand and power tools.
• Skill in problem solving.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

The Wastewater Treatment Chief Operator assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot‑checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the results.

Guidelines include NPDES permit requirements, voluntary OSHA guidelines, EPA and ADEM regulations, other relevant state and federal regulations, industry standards, and department policies and procedures.

• The work consists of related technical duties. Frequent condition changes contribute to the complexity of the position.

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city personnel, vendors, contractors, representatives of state and federal agencies, and the public.

• The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and occasionally heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.
• The work is typically performed in wastewater treatment facilities and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious diseases, and irritating chemicals. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

• Graduation from a standard senior‑high school or GED equivalent, as recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
• Possession of a current and valid ADEM Wastewater Treatment Operator Grade IV certification.
• Twenty‑four (24) months recent working experience in a Grade IV wastewater treatment plant; or thirty‑six (36) months recent combined working experience in a Grade III or IV wastewater treatment plant.