Operator in Training

You will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.

Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more.

American Water is proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally.

The Operator-in Training (OIT) performs semi-skilled to skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of a 5.2 MGD, activated sludge, and wastewater treatment plant. Assists other operators with operation and preventive maintenance duties and works with the plant superintendent on process controls, monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing treatment performance.

• Completes tasks assigned by the plant superintendent in a timely and professional manner.
  • Following completion of on-the-job training and instruction, the OIT will perform the following duties:
    • Perform process control tests and basic laboratory analyses such as pH, dissolved oxygen, SVI, total/volatile solids, total suspended/volatile solids, nutrients analyses, biological oxygen demand (BOD), bacterial test and other lab analyses.
    • Monitor and maintain treatment processes: screening, sedimentation, activated sludge treatment, sludge digestion, UV disinfection and sludge thickening/dewatering.
    • Operate and maintain supporting equipment including valves, flow meter, pumps, compressors, chemical feeders, and blowers.
    • Assist the plant superintendent and staff with the ordering of bulk chemicals, scheduling of sludge hauling, data collection and record keeping.
    • Attend all safety training and apply safe work practices at all times.
    • Serve as the 'on-call' operator and respond to after‑hour emergencies such as sewage spills, stormwater runoff, power failures, chemical leakages, etc.

• A basic understanding of mechanics and hydraulics.
• Knowledge of the operation, methods, practices, techniques, and maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment facilities.
• Knowledge of safety practices in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment used in industrial facilities.
• Knowledge of procedures, materials, tools, equipment and safety hazards and precautions common to assigned areas of responsibility.
• Ability to deal effectively and courteously with internal and external customers as well as the general public.
• Ability to determine what equipment, tools and materials will be needed to complete assigned projects.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and power tools.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in operational duties, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal associates, supervisory personnel, management personnel, and vendors.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, recording devices, and general plant instrumentation.
• Ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date maintenance records.
• Ability to write legibly and make simple mathematical calculations accurately.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, shovel, sweep, walk and climb status.
• Ability to safely operate company motor vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions including summer heat.
• Ability to use computer/mobile devices tools to analyze and report plant data.

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Years of experience vary depending on the level of position opened and must be in the wastewater utility industry:
  • Operator OIT: required to obtain operator certificate within state‑mandated guidelines.
  • Operator 1: 1‑3 years experience.
  • Operator 2: 3‑5 years experience.
  • Operator 3: 5‑8 years experience.
  • Sr. Operator: 8+ years…