Water​/Wastewater Plant Operator ; B274120-1 Water Treatment

Operates and maintains wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and equipment handling. Tends to pumps, conveyors, blowers, chlorinators, vacuum filters, and other equipment used to treat wastewater. Collects samples and conducts routine chemical analyses of wastewater at various points in the plant process.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Assists with activated sludge plant, including dewatering process and sludge blanket maintenance.
• Collects samples and residuals to be tested by in house-laboratory and external laboratory testing services; maintains and updates records of meters and samples.
• Observes plant operation and ensures adherence to state and federal agencies permits.
• Performs operation duties, such as adding chemicals, adjusting equipment, reading monitors, performing tests, and maintaining tanks and equipment.
• Monitors and maintains inventory.
• Performs related work as required.

• Knowing of plant operations, permits, and safety requirements, including sludge dewatering and activated sludge processes.
• Knowledge of basic math.
• Knowledge of equipment and chemical changes.
• Knowledge of modern office procedures and methods including computers and applicable software.
• Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

• Skill in note taking and record keeping.
• Skill in the use of heavy equipment, including 18-wheeler.
• Skill in organization and time management.
• Ability to recognize sounds, smells, and visual changes and adapt to changing sludge, water, and polymer characteristics.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to meet schedules and deadlines of the work.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
• Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of this position.

• Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Occasional outside work.
• Exerting up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

• Office or similar indoor environment
• Outdoor environment
• Construction site
• Vehicles

• Street environment (near moving traffic)
• Confined space
• Warehouse environment

• Individuals who are hostile or irate
• Individuals with known violent backgrounds
• Communicable diseases

• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)
• Moving mechanical parts

• Fumes or airborne particles
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances
• Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers,…