Water Pollution Control Facility Operator in Training

This class is accountable for performing specialized work in the proper operation and maintenance of the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) and Pump Stations. Work is performed in accordance with standard practices, codes, and OSHA-required safety protocols. Work involves the proper operation, care, and maintenance of all WPCF and Pump Station equipment including the Wastewater Collection System.

Works under the general supervision of the WPCF Superintendent.

May lead lower-level employees as assigned.

• Assists Operator in monitoring gauges, meters, and control panels to determine processing requirements.
• Assists Operator in operation of valves and gates, stop and start pumps, and generators to control and adjust flows.
• Assists Operator with sludge dewater system when required.
• Assists Operator with maintenance of emergency power generating equipment.
• Assists Operator with maintenance of shift log and record meter and gauge readings.
• Assists Operator with preventive maintenance and operating records.
• Assists Operator with pumping sludge from primary tanks to the digesters.
• Assists Operator with routine and operational maintenance of treatment units.
• Assists Operator with wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment used to control flow and sludge disposal equipment.
• Assists with inspection of mechanical equipment, including detecting flaws and defects and solving routine technical or operational problems.
• Assists with the operation of a manual or a computerized facility.
• Extracts samples for routine laboratory tests and analyses.
• Operates a variety of trucks, tractors, loaders, sewer cleaners, pumps, pressure washers, and other equipment to complete assigned tasks.
• Operates equipment to locate, uncover, clean, rod, and flush sanitary sewer manholes and pipes, including entering sewer manholes to remove accumulated waste materials.
• Operates sewer pipe cleaning equipment.
• Performs plumbing and pipe fitting tasks, welding, and minor electrical work.
• Performs routine maintenance and repair tasks on buildings, pump stations, collection systems, sludge management process, and grounds as required.
• May be assigned on the job training under the supervision of a higher classified employee.
• Performs other related duties as required, including those of lower classifications.

• Ability to diagnose WPCF pump system malfunctions and determine appropriate repair procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
• Ability to perform in a courteous and professional manner amongst staff and the public on a daily basis.
• Ability to read meters and charts accurately.
• Ability to prepare detailed operational records and reports accurately.
• Ability to read, interpret and apply information from technical manuals, blueprints, meters, charts, and other documents.
• Ability to understand and adhere to established policies, procedures and safety protocols.
• Ability to understand and interpret sometimes detailed and procedural oral and written instructions and directives.
• Ability to understand the methods and practice of operating conditions in a modern water pollution control facility.
• Knowledge of mechanics and operation of WPCF pumps and pump systems, machinery, equipment, materials and operating procedures of a modern wastewater treatment facility.
• Knowledge of the functions of engines, pumps, digesters, and mechanical equipment.
• Knowledge of the implications of improper sewage treatment toward community health and well-being.
• Ability to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communication styles.

Graduation from High School or GED.

Incumbents in this class must have a passing score on the Class III Wastewater Operator Certification exam administered by the State of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP).

Incumbents in this class must obtain a Class III (or higher) Wastewater Operator Certificate from DEEP within five (5) years of passing the certification exam.

Incumbents in this class must…