Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

Under general supervision, the Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee learns and develops the skills necessary to perform a variety of duties in support of providing the public with safe, potable drinking water. Work involves training in the proper operation, monitoring, and maintenance of water treatment systems and facilities to ensure water is free of contaminants and adequately disinfected.

• Water Quality Monitoring and Testing: perform and record water quality checks, including chlorine residuals, fluoride, alkalinity, hardness, mono‑chloramine, free ammonia, turbidity, and temperature; collect, analyze, and prepare bacteriological, organic compound, and alkalinity samples for transport to certified laboratories; inspect and test the quality (specific gravity, color, odor) of chemicals received for water treatment.
• System Operations and Maintenance: monitor the SCADA system to ensure adequate water levels throughout the distribution system; assist in maintaining clear wells, ground storage tanks, and towers; operate pumps as needed; calculate and implement proper dosages of treatment chemicals using mathematical formulas and software; inspect basins, filters, pumps, and motors; conduct daily backwash of filters.
• Reporting and Documentation: prepare and maintain reports, logs, and process control data; report system performance to the immediate supervisor; support training of new operators and trainees as assigned.
• Customer Service and Communication: respond to customer questions and complaints; coordinate with other City departments to resolve service concerns; generate and input work orders, including emergency line locates.
• Facility Care and Housekeeping: perform general custodial duties around the plant, including cleaning control rooms, laboratories, restrooms, plant floors, and equipment.
• Other Duties: perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Work is performed in treatment facilities with exposure to hazardous tools, equipment, chemicals, machinery, and potential infectious agents.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Knowledge of work safety policies, procedures, and practices.
• Skill in organizing work and setting priorities to meet deadlines.
• Following safe work practices, including use of personal protective equipment.
• Typing and entering data with accuracy.
• Communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public.

• Must obtain a Class “D” Water Operator License within six (6) months of hire.