Wastewater Operator I​/II — Training to Certification

Wastewater Operator in Training / Operator I

Location:

Kings Mountain, North Carolina
Department:
Water Resources
Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To:

Wastewater Supervisor/ORC

Operator I: $40,

Operator II: $44,

The Wastewater Operator is responsible for the daily operation, monitoring, and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental regulations set by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ). Key duties include collecting and analyzing samples, adjusting treatment processes, maintaining mechanical and electrical equipment, keeping accurate operational records, and responding to system alarms or equipment malfunctions.

The operator ensures that the treatment plant operates efficiently and effectively to protect public health and the environment. This role requires knowledge of activated sludge processes, chemical dosing, solids handling, and permit requirements. Operators must be able to work independently, follow standard operating procedures, and meet the certification requirements.

Ability to:

• learn the wastewater treatment plant process
• understand the nomenclature of the equipment - be trained on routine tasks within the scope of plant operations
• attend North Carolina Grade I Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification School
• pass the North Carolina Grade I Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification exam

• Working with an entry level of proficiency, monitoring conditions and making required changes in operations to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and to maximize plant performance.
• Monitor conditions and suggest to Chief Operator required system changes to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and to maximize plant efficiency with minimum assistance.
• Working with a level of proficiency, accurately recording all operational parameters to document proper procedures and regulatory compliance.
• Perform various maintenance functions essential to the upkeep of the grounds, equipment and building. Adherence to following standard safety and housekeeping procedures to minimize risk of injury and to comply with the City, State and Federal regulations and guidelines.
• Working with a level of proficiency, troubleshoot problems maintaining equipment in good working order and minimizing downtime in operations.
• Evaluates changing conditions and initiates suggestions to the Chief Operator treatment procedures to ensure continued effective plant operations.
• Assists in tracking sufficient chemical and materials inventory to ensure continued plant operations.
• Constantly communicate with other team members and your supervisory team.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, superiors, and onsite contractors.
• North Carolina Grade I Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification, with aptitude to work towards higher level certifications.
• If certified, ability to serve as an on-call operator.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship / internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.
• Knowledge and level of competency are commonly associated with the completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education.
• On-the-job training is available to a successful candidate who does not have wastewater treatment plant operations experience.

• North Carolina Grade I Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification preferred, required within 18 months of hire date.
• Valid North Carolina Driver’s License with the ability to meet the City’s Motor Vehicle Driver Eligibility Policy.

• Analyze problems and identify possible solutions.
• Prepare clear and…