WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR I, II OR III

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Performs semiskilled work in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant; does related work as required. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator.

This is medium work requiring the exertion of 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, peripheral vision, preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arm's length, operation of machines, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, hazards, atmospheric conditions, and wearing a self contained breathing apparatus. The worker may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment.

Operating a wastewater treatment plant; collecting samples; preparing and maintaining records on plant operations. Makes regular tours of plant and equipment assisting in plant operations. Monitors gauges, meters, control panels, etc. Records readings from meters and instruments. Checks functioning of equipment; performs various tests. Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions. Collects samples of wastewater and sludge. Monitors operation of gauges, charts, equipment, motors, etc., and reports problems to supervisor. Pumps sludge to drying beds or tanker. Performs basic laboratory tests when required. Cleans and services pumps, motors, and other equipment. Assists with major system repairs and installations; operates medium to heavy construction equipment as qualified. Assists with monitoring and recording the activities of assigned community service workers. Performs minor preventive maintenance on plant equipment; assists with plant maintenance and repair. Performs general building and grounds maintenance duties. Performs related tasks as required.

Some knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant; some knowledge of hydraulic, chemical, and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations; some knowledge of occupational hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions; ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations; some skill in the use and care of hand tools; ability to make arithmetic computations; ability to compute rates, ratios, and percentages; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and minimal treatment plant operation experience.

Obtain a North Carolina Grade I Wastewater Treatment Operator certificate within twelve months. Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the State of North Carolina.