Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I​/Trainee- South Harnett Wastewater Plant

Performs skilled operational and maintenance functions in the operation of wastewater treatment plants. An employee in this class performs a variety of operational, laboratory, and maintenance duties designed to safely treat and disposal of domestic, commercial and industrial waste discharges. The primary tasks of this role are monitoring the plant’s operation and making necessary adjustments to the operation. The primary tasks are accomplished through the evaluation of observations, equipment readings, and the results of standardized tests.

Work also includes sampling, laboratory testing, detailed recordkeeping, and maintenance of equipment, grounds, and facilities. Employees are subject to hazards associated with wastewater and plant operations including working both inside and outside during all weather conditions and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, and working in confined spaces.

Work is performed under regular supervision, and success is evaluated based on adherence to operations standards, instructions, and safety practices.

Hiring Salary: $49,177.00

• Collects and analyzes wastewater samples throughout the plant using standardized tests at established times and sample points; reviews results; and makes adjustments accordingly.
• Monitors the process and makes adjustments accordingly.
• Learns key elements in operating a plant.
• Assists with maintenance; makes sure equipment is efficiently operating.
• Ensures plant facilities and grounds are clean, neat, and safe.
• Must be able to drive and operate a vehicle to travel as needed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• No experience required.

• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Possession of NC Biological Wastewater Operator:
  Grade I License or the ability to obtain one within three test attempts. The three test attempts must be completed in succession, and you are required to take the first available class and the first test available thereafter. If you fail to take the exam when offered, it will go against your three opportunities to obtain your license.
• If you do not pass the exam during your first six months, you will remain on probation.

• Basic knowledge of wastewater treatment process.
• Basic knowledge of lab equipment and testing.
• Basic skill in performing wastewater calculations.
• Skill in operating equipment used to perform job duties.
• Skill in maintaining and repairing equipment used on the job.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to work well with others.

Must be able to perform medium work frequently exerting up to 30 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects; and occasionally requiring to exert up to 50 pounds of force to move objects. This work also involves the physical abilities of balancing, climbing, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, kneeling, lifting, using mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, and walking.

An incumbent must also possess the visual acuity to analyze data, work with color, and to operate equipment.

The employee works in a plant environment.