Water Treatment Plant Operator ; Part Time

Water Treatment Plant Operator I

Franklin County Public Utilities Department is recruiting for a part time, Water Treatment Plant Operator I. An employee in this class performs intermediate semi-skilled work in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant. Emphasis of the work is on efficient and effective operation and maintenance of the plant, control and performance of treatment and testing processes. Performs general plant and grounds maintenance tasks and maintaining records and logs.

Position may be subject to shift work as necessary to complete treatment process. Treats contaminated water through a series of processes that remove or destroy harmful materials and microorganisms. System operators ensure that the purification process goes smoothly and efficiently. Controls high-tech equipment, such as control pumps, valves, and computers that move the water through the numerous treatment processes. Responsible for testing the water at various stages of treatment;

interpreting and adjusting meters and gauges; and performing chemical and biological laboratory analyses. Must follow the water pollution standards set by the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. Must be familiar with all federal and local regulations, laws, and standards regarding the quality of drinking water. Employees are subject to hazards associated with water plant operations including working both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, moving electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, working in small spaces such as sewer pipes, and oils.

Work around water is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on blood borne pathogens. Work is performed under the supervision of the Water Treatment Plant Superintendent and is reviewed by observation, conference, and the reviewing records for adherence to operations standards, instructions, and safety practices. This is a part-time position with work times that include weekends, evenings, nights, and holidays.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs general plant and grounds maintenance tasks, maintaining records and logs.
• Makes regular tours of the plant and checks engines, generators, pumps, aerators, tanks, filters, chlorinators, chemical feeders, and other equipment for proper functioning.
• Documents amount of water treated, amount of chemicals used, and records chemical pump dial settings; calibrates equipment as needed.
• Collects water samples; performs tests such as pH, alkalinity, turbidity, etc., completes lab analysis of treated and untreated water to ensure quality; makes chemical and other adjustments as needed.
• Records readings from meters and instruments; maintains various records and logs on plant operations.
• Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions; back washes filters to ensure plant sludge collection systems are operating properly.
• Performs minor maintenance and lubrication on equipment.
• Performs general custodial and grounds maintenance work.
• Requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, using of measuring devices, assembly, or fabrication of parts within arm's length, operating machines, operating motor vehicles or equipment, and observing general surroundings and activities.
• Position may be subject to shift work as necessary to complete treatment process.
• Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a water treatment plant.
• Working knowledge of hydraulic, chemical, and mechanical principles pertinent to water treatment plant operations.
• Working knowledge of State rules and regulations governing water treatment; some knowledge in maintaining documentation and records.
• Working knowledge in the use of standard office equipment and associated software.
• Ability to make arithmetic computations.
• Ability to compute rates, ratios, and percentages.
• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work, and the necessary safety precautions; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read meters and charts accurately.
• Skill in the use and care of hand tools.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.

Desirable

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from high school supplemented by coursework in chemistry or biology and water treatment with related experience in a water treatment plant and minimal experience in the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment.

Special Requirement:

• Possession of a valid North Carolina Driver's License upon hire.
• Possession of Class "C" Surface Water Treatment Operator certification upon hire.
• Must meet and maintain all department certification, license, and training requirements for position.

Work Location:

Franklinton,…