Wastewater Operator in Training

Job Summary

The Wastewater Operator in Training I is an entry‑level position involving the safe operation, maintenance and repair of the Town of La Plata wastewater treatment plant and related facilities, including pumping stations and water distribution systems. Employees learn the principles, practices and methods used in water treatment operations, as well as the safe operation and servicing of equipment and machinery, handling of chemicals, and work in environments that contain chemicals and biologically active materials both indoors and outdoors.

Starting Salary Range: $19.24 – $22.12/hour, based on experience.

Details can be found on the Town website at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Under the direction of a certified operator, controls flow and adjusts treatment processes to ensure compliance with applicable permits.
• Operates wastewater solids handling processes.
• Maintains records, performs calculations, and composes reports.
• Collects samples and conducts laboratory tests to control and monitor treatment facility processes and operations.
• Uses the computer and tablets for data entry and process control.
• Performs in‑plant maintenance according to the schedules and procedures established for the facilities to which assigned.
• Cleans, services, lubricates and repairs pumps, air compressors, blowers, chemical feed equipment, lawn mowing equipment, and other mechanical devices regularly found in water, wastewater and industrial wastewater treatment facilities.
• Performs general housekeeping duties such as mowing grass, painting equipment and structures, and cleaning floors and windows.
• Handles material and chemical shipments.
• Operates Town of La Plata motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required.
• Assigned to any one of three shifts and required to be on duty Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
• Subject to call in or work overtime to ensure coverage of the treatment facilities and services.
• Assists in performing emergency collection and distribution system work as required.
• Builds and maintains positive working relationships with co‑workers and the public using principles of good customer service and emphasizes that "Service is our Business".

To perform this job satisfactorily, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• High School diploma or GED.
• Valid Maryland Class C driver’s license.
• Must apply for temporary Maryland Water 1 and Wastewater 5A certifications at the time of employment.
• Must obtain a Maryland Wastewater Operator 5 and A license within 3 years of service.
• Must obtain a Maryland Water Treatment Operator license within 1 year of service.
• Must obtain a Maryland Water Sampler Certification within 1 year of service.
• Ability to make sound decisions in a manner consistent with the essential job functions.

Ability to maintain a very professional atmosphere in customer service with officials, co‑workers, and members of the general public in routine, emergency, or emotional situations. Ability to take direction. Ability to accomplish tasks quickly in a fast‑paced environment with frequent interruptions and short deadlines. Ability to work well with people dealing with a wide variety of issues and challenges. Skilled at handling multiple projects and short deadlines with adherence to regulations and procedures.

Ability to communicate verbally and in writing effectively with private contractors, consulting engineers, utility companies, property owners, government officials, the general public, fellow employees, and Town officials. Must be able to listen and interpret problems, direct inquiries to appropriate staff or resources, exercise tact and diplomacy, and make clear written and oral reports and recommendations. Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and memos.

Ability to write correspondence.

Talk, hear, and see regularly. Handle objects or controls by finger. Walk, reach, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Standing for long periods, walking over rough surfaces, bending, crouching, stooping, and reaching. Occasionally lift or move up to or in excess of 75 pounds. Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations.

Work may involve outdoor environmental conditions with noise, foul smells, sewage, dust, grease, mud, cold, hot, and wet/snowy weather. Exposure to chemicals, biological, electrical, thermal, power tools, moving equipment, and radioactive hazards.