Wastewater Maintenance Operator

Compensation

Probationary rate of $29.77 – regular rate $31.34. A $0.50 per hour shift differential for overnight shift work.

Perform a broad range of tasks to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the wastewater collection, interception, and treatment systems.

Reports to:

Chief Operators;
Forepersons; depending on assignment. Direct Reports:
None.

Interrelationships:
Daily contact with other wastewater personnel and/or other Portland Water District (PWD) employees in various functions.

Independent Action:
Operate in each treatment plant and other wastewater system facilities under limited direct supervisor and instruction. Position requires on‑call duty which will require emergency response to issues in treatment plants and wastewater systems.

• Monitor system and treatment process performance and implement required process modifications.
• Maintain the quality of treated effluent to conform to the water quality parameters and regulations established by State and Federal agencies.
• Monitor, interpret, record and archive data from treatment plant and pump station process control computers and instrumentation.
• Perform testing, calibrations, maintenance and emergency repairs on operation equipment.
• Locate and mark wastewater collection/interceptor system pipes, manholes and fixtures, as required by utilities, contractors, etc.
• Operate sewer cleaning and inspection equipment, such as rodding machines, jet machines, and camera equipment.
• Complete sampling and lab testing, as required.
• Monitor, operate and respond to treatment plant and pump station security system alarms.
• Transport, maintain, dispose, modify, and monitor the use of chemicals (some hazardous) and inventories in accordance with the most recent Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
• Perform and assist with operational and maintenance tasks at wastewater treatment and pumping stations and systems, including sewer lines and manholes. Regularly use PWD’s asset management and other computer systems to schedule, document, and report on activities.
• Maintain accurate records of daily tasks, treatment data, equipment operation and maintenance.
• Perform structural maintenance and custodial duties at each of PWD’s treatment facilities and other system’s sites, including snow removal as required.
• Recognize the importance of and demonstrate safe work practices, good customer relations, interdepartmental functions, effluent permit compliance, and proper sampling and lab testing methods.
• Ability to perform on rotating shift schedule and perform 24-hour standby coverage, as required to maintain uninterrupted wastewater treatment and systems oversight.

Standing, sitting, bending, reaching, climbing, crawling, squatting, kneeling, twisting, driving, walking, lifting (max 50lbs), visual accuracy, clear verbal and written communication, repetitive arm/shoulder use, keyboard usage.

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• Possess a valid State of Maine Class C Driver’s License, with a clean driving record.
• Must possess a State of Maine Grade II Biological Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators License and a Class II NEWEA Voluntary Collections Systems License, or the ability to obtain within two years of hire date.
• Ability to read and comprehend installation, operations, and maintenance manuals for vehicles, tools and equipment.
• Ability to function successfully in a team environment, with associated positive communication and problem‑solving skills and proactive sharing of skills and ideas with colleagues.
• Basic computer skills required, and intermediate skills preferred, including knowledge of Windows, Word for Windows and E‑mail applications and the ability to regularly use other PWD software in the regular performance of work duties.
• Perform Essential Accountabilities in accordance with all Federal, State, local and PWD’s safety regulations.
• Basic mechanical/electrical abilities within essential accountabilities.
• Ability to meet approved physical standards.
• Demonstrate tendency to engage in continuous learning and the ability to acquire new skills.
• Must be physically able to complete necessary tasks while wearing an approved respirator, as required.
• Perform other related duties, as required.