Water & Wastewater OIT

Under the direction of the Utilities Manager and/or the Lead Operator, the Water and Wastewater Operator in Training, is an apprentice of the Lead Operator. This position is responsible for learning water plant operations, water production, water distribution systems, sewer treatment operations, lift station operations, sewer collection system, regular and preventative maintenance, and emergency repairs to effectively achieve a “C” level licensed plant operators license

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assists the water and wastewater lead operator in the daily operations and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant, water plant operations, and lift station facility.
• Operating a variety of equipment/machinery including valves, pumps, motors, disinfection equipment, and vehicles.
• Manages wastewater flow, equipment operations, performs laboratory analyses to ensure adequate process control.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions in the English language.
• Assists in overseeing and implementing the preventive maintenance program for all facilities.
• Prepares work orders using the city work order system, Elements.
• Responds to emergency or irregular facility situations outside of normal work shift, including holidays, after hours and on weekends.
• Regular and consistent attendance for assigned work hours is essential.
• Position may be required to work rotating shifts and is subject to on-call.
• This position is considered essential during a natural or manmade disaster and/or a catastrophic event. This position may be required to provide service or perform duties for the benefit of the public and continuity of City operations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of this position.

The physical demands and environmental conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work requires sufficient physical strength, agility, dexterity, and hand-eye-foot coordination to perform all essential functions. Duties also require frequent sitting, walking, kneeling, squatting, pushing, pulling, twisting, and bending.

Work also requires employee to climb and work from ladders and supports up to heights of 45 feet. Work is performed primarily outdoors and exposes employee to potential hazards such as dust, noise, and exhaust fumes. Employee is also exposed to potential physical hazards when working off ladders and supports, and to potential chemical hazards when handling and applying chemicals.

Work requires the frequent use of safety clothing and equipment and compliance with safety rules and procedures.

High school diploma or GED required. No prior water or wastewater experience is required, but exposure to mechanical, construction, utility, or maintenance work is preferred. Must obtain a Texas Class “D” Water and Wastewater Operator License within one (1) year of hire and progress to a Class “C” Groundwater and Wastewater License within two (2) years, as required by TCEQ. Equivalent education, training, or related experience that prepares the candidate to perform the job may also be considered and the following:

• Basic understanding of City policies and procedures.
• Basic familiarity with wastewater and water system components (tools, equipment, pumps, and valves).
• Awareness of safety hazards and protective practices, including confined space entry.
• Willingness to learn mechanical, biological, and chemical processes involved in wastewater treatment.

• Safe use of basic tools, equipment, and protective gear.
• Ability to assist with equipment operation and routine maintenance.
• Performing simple lab tests and recording results.
• Completing basic calculations to determine required materials.
• U…