Wastewater Treatment Operator Intern

DEFINITION

Under direct supervision of the Chief Plant Operator, performs a variety of duties involved in the operation of a wastewater treatment and recycled water plant, and pump station equipment and facilities.

The Wastewater Treatment Operator Intern is a training position in the operation and treatment of wastewater. A position in this internship provides opportunities to enhance classroom learning by obtaining practical real-world experience. The internship is designed to provide students with meaningful work experience to supplement their academic curriculum and to enhance their career development. The goal of this internship is to prepare qualified applicants for a career in wastewater treatment operations.

Interns will have the opportunity to receive hands‑on training and shadow with staff from the Operations Department based on level of prior experience, education, and certification. Work performed is under direct supervision of an Operator with a Grade II or higher.

Exercises no supervision over other employees.

• The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The exact duties performed will depend on the needs of the SEJPA.
• Practices and promotes SEJPA Mission, Vision and Values.
• Assist in conducting inspections of wastewater treatment/recycled water plant and pump station equipment according to established procedures and schedules.
• Read, record, and calculate readings of meters and gauges.
• Assist with the inspection of pumps, motors, generators, and other equipment for proper operation.
• Assist with scheduled preventive maintenance and cleaning of dry/wet wells, tanks, pumps, valves, and other equipment.
• Monitor the addition of chemicals to wastewater/recycled water treatment processes.
• Assist in the removal of blockages; replace worn parts; remove parts to be machined by outside vendors; reassemble equipment.
• Paint equipment and buildings; sweep and wash floors, walls and paved areas; kill and remove weeds; trim plants; pick up debris; water and maintain landscaped areas.
• Notify appropriate staff of electrical and instrumentation malfunctions; assist in requested repairs to motors and equipment.
• Assist in the collection of process control samples.
• Maintain records and logs; perform data entry, as necessary.
• Observe safety precautions regarding wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Operate a variety of vehicles, tools, and equipment used in the operation of the wastewater treatment/recycled water plant.

• Basic materials, methods, and practices used in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.
• Basic principles of record keeping.
• Basic mathematical principles.
• Safe driving principles and practices.
• Ability to learn to operate a wide variety of equipment and tools used in wastewater/recycled water treatment plant and pump station operation in a safe and effective manner.
• Operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Perform manual labor for extended periods of time in all types of weather.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records.
• Perform accurate mathematical calculations.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Current enrollment in undergraduate or graduate studies in an accredited college or university with major course work in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Wastewater/Water Treatment Technology, or closely related field.

Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would qualify. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities would be to have general knowledge of equipment and skills as stated in this position description.

• Possession of a valid California…