Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

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The City of Marion is an equal opportunity provider.

The City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is responsible for the treatment of wastewater prior to discharge to Corpening Creek. Department personnel perform all treatment operations, maintenance, sampling, testing, and reporting as required by state and federal law.

Detailed Description of Duties:

This position performs responsible operational, laboratory, and maintenance functions in a wastewater treatment plant. Work includes performing a variety of operational, laboratory, and maintenance duties designed to provide safe treatment and disposal of municipal wastewater. Work is performed under the supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent. Work includes monitoring the plant's operation through observation, mechanical readings and the results of standard chemical tests and making necessary adjustments in the process as conditions or test results dictate.

Other duties include performing standard laboratory duties and tests and assisting with plant and facilities maintenance. Work also includes substantial recordkeeping of work activities.

Essential include, but are not limited to:

• Conducts regular tours of plant to make sure plant is operating properly.
• Monitors plant processes through the computerized operational control.
• Collects wastewater samples from various sources and stages in the treatment processes.
• Records data from various meters, gauges and dials; logs daily, weekly, and monthly activities at designated intervals.
• Performs standard laboratory tests.
• During major storms or other emergencies, makes assessment of the conditions and takes corrective actions accordingly; notifies supervisor according to standards.
• Performs general preventive and scheduled maintenance; makes routine inspections and makes minor mechanical repairs or adjustments; assists on major maintenance and repairs.
• Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, valves and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.
• Performs routine building and grounds maintenance including mowing, cleaning and painting; adds and changes oil in motors and gear boxes; clears debris from raw water intakes and storage tanks.
• Analyzes plant performance and makes chemical feed and other adjustments consistent with supervisory guidelines; back washes filters.
• May open the plant and set up lab for samples; turns on valves, pumps and chemical feeds; turns pumps on and off depending on water levels at the tank and in the clear wells.
• May conduct tours of plant operations for school groups and other organizations.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines:

Interested candidates will be assessed on the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Working knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment plants.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and permitting requirements.
• Working knowledge of the hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions.
• Some knowledge of standard laboratory tests and procedures used in a wastewater treatment plant.
• Some knowledge of chemistry and ability to perform mathematical calculations.
• Working knowledge of the use of computers to record data, prepare reports, and operate plant equipment.
• Some knowledge of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures.
• Ability to conduct routine laboratory tests.
• Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read meters, charts, and technical manuals and drawings accurately and to maintain records of shift operations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and superiors.

Minimal Education, Certifications, and Licenses:

• Graduation from high school supplemented by course work in chemistry or biology and some experience in the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment, preferably in a wastewater treatment plant; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license.
• NC Grade I Wastewater Operator Certification or ability to obtain within twelve months of hire date.

How to Apply:

Email completed City of Marion Employment Application to:

The City of Marion is an equal opportunity employer.