Utilities Water Plant Operator

Under general supervision, performs responsible technical and skilled work in the operation and minor maintenance of water treatment plant, ground water wells, water storage tanks, lift stations and associated facilities. Work involves collecting wastewater lab samples and performing required analyses and tests; picking up water distribution samples and delivering to independent laboratory for analysis; checking wastewater treatment plant sulfur dioxide feed equipment, chlorinators and other machines;

and reading meters, gauges and dials. Work also involves monitoring potable water levels in ground and elevated storage tanks, chlorinators and other machines; and reading meters, gauges and dials. Employee is responsible for maintaining water and wastewater records of readings, making adjustments and maintaining equipment and fixtures as required, and maintaining accurate records. Shift work required. Monitors the performance of mechanical devices and instrumentation in the wastewater and water treatment plant;

checks for proper calibration, proper positioning of controls, and ensures efficient and proper operation of equipment. Monitors and maintains proper surveillance of plant processes, equipment and controls to ensure efficient operation of the plant, lift stations, wells and water storage tanks. Collects water and wastewater samples, and performs lab tests; checks water storage tanks and lift stations, chlorinators and chemical feed discharges;

reads meters, gauges and dials, and maintains reports of findings. Analyzes water for pH, D.O., color, chlorine and other required tests; checks water levels, finished water flow through pressure-reducing stations from the water treatment plant, and performs various other operational checks. Monitors process variables, making changes as determined by flow, controls, instrumentation analysis, calculations and visual observations; checks calibration of equipment;

adds chemicals; monitors and participates in shut-downs and start-ups of equipment as directed. Performs regular inspections of plant, facilities and supporting equipment, including lift stations, water pressure stations, pressure field stations, water well and storage facilities, to ensure proper operating condition at all times; maintains detailed records of findings. Monitors well meters, and records daily consumption of ground water. Obtains chemical supplies from storage sites and transports to plant and/or well sites;

prepares chemical for use; refills chemical supplies as needed. Prepares and submits required records and reports. Performs various housekeeping, grounds and equipment maintenance functions. Performs other related work as required.

Graduation from high school and 1 to 2 years of experience in water or sewer system operation; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Possession of a grade "C" certification in water treatment plant operation issued by the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources within 2 years of employment.

• General knowledge of the operating principles and practices and the maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment plant wells, sewage lift stations and water storage tank equipment and machinery.
• General knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with water and wastewater plant operations and related activities.
• General knowledge of the mechanical maintenance and lubrication requirements of the equipment operated.
• General knowledge of federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to the treatment of water for distribution as drinking water and discharge of wastewater to the water bodies of North Carolina.
• Some knowledge of chemistry as applied to water and wastewater treatment.
• Some knowledge of standard laboratory principles, techniques, terminology and equipment.
• Ability to recognize breakdowns in wastewater treatment plants, wells and sewage lift station equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow specified operating and recording procedures.
• Ability to make minor repairs of equipment operated.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment based on training and experience in making decisions and coordinating the proper operation of equipment.
• Ability to detect defects and to take appropriate action in the operation of water and waste treatment equipment, chemical feed systems and other related equipment.
• Ability to secure the requisite operator's certificate as required by work assignments.
• Ability to keep accurate records and prepare reports.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.