Utilities Water Plant Operator in Training - Plant Operator A

Water Treatment Operator

Under general supervision, performs operations and maintenance duties at the water treatment facilities.

Reports to: Water Treatment Supervisor

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Under general supervision, operates Treatment Plant to ensure compliance with the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act and the Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
• Meets water quality and quantity demands by making independent decisions concerning plant operations based on plant specific operational guidelines set in place by the Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC).
• Monitors the performance of all equipment associated with the treatment process by conducting routine visual inspections, interpreting instrument readings, and performing daily rounds.
• Collects samples from source water, treatment facilities and distribution system. Perform lab analyses and interpret the results and make process adjustments accordingly.
• Calculates and determines optimum dosages of chemicals used in the treatment process.
• Operates and interprets the SCADA system. Generates reports from SCADA data logs. Creates trends of Plant operations and analyzes to optimize quality and quantity of water produced.
• Responsible for daily record keeping, including water production, chemical usage and equipment run times.
• Starts and stops pumps and operates valves to control and adjust flow and processes either manually or by remote control.
• Responds to alarms, identifies, and corrects mechanical and process problems. Performs preventative maintenance including minor repairs.
• Reports process and equipment status to other operators and supervisors on a regular basis verbally and in writing.
• Performs work in accordance with safety policies and procedures.
• Prepares work orders and other written requests for maintenance.
• Creates new and updates existing SOPs.
• Handles and responds to spills of hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals during delivery, storage, and use.
• Maintains good customer service. Answers inquiries from the public as to the quality of the City's water supply. Conducts tours of the treatment facility.
• Interacts with other districts, receives, analyzes, and directs emergency calls from the public, including water related and sanitary sewer inquiries.
• Ensures that the treatment facility and outlying areas are clean, safe, and presentable at all times for public tours and regulatory agency inspections.
• Trains new personnel using knowledge and experience to enable less experienced employees to obtain the proper expertise necessary in the water treatment field.
• Performs daily water rights accounting.
• Assumes on-call duties when assigned.
• Acquires readings and flow records and operates the City Ditch when required.
• Inspects water towers and vaults.
• Works closely with City Engineering Team for timely completion of Plant related projects.
• Performs other duties as assigned and required.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintains plant's grounds, structures, and operates a boat.
• Provides input to the supervisor concerning preparation of the division's budget.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED.

Work Experience

• Water Treatment Plant experience preferred.

Certifications and/or Licensures

• State Operator Certification required. The goal of the Utilities Department is for all operators to be A-Level certified and maintain their certification (all levels) through acquiring training units (TUs).

Required Driver's License

• Valid Colorado Driver's License and safe driving record; Commercial License preferred.

An equivalent combination of education, training and relevant job experience may be substituted.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Computer Skills - Good computer skills required to work in a technical environment.
• Communication Skills Good professional communication skills required to interact with the public.
• Analytical Skills - Understanding of analytical methods required to interpret laboratory tests. Also required for forecasting supply and demand of water.
• Mechanical Skills - Basic mechanical skills required for the calibration of instruments. Also required for the repair and maintenance of equipment and structures.
• Mathematical Skills - Basic mathematical skills required for calculating chemical dosage, velocities, volumes, flows, demands, and pressure.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Operator In-Training

• Ability to train in all aspects of water treatment operations and maintenance.
• Accurately follow instructions and guidelines and perform with minimal errors.
• Maintain good attendance record and work well with all utility employees and contractors.
• Demonstrate positive attitude and willingness to support the team effort.
• Operators in-training shall obtain their D-Level water treatment certification within 6 months of hire.

D-Level Certification

• Basic Knowledge of:
• Treatment of surface water
• Water contamination and health risks
• Understanding of safety needs and procedures
• Analytical laboratory testing
• D-Level operators shall obtain their C-Level water treatment certification within 1 year of being eligible to take the certification exam.

C-Level Certification

• Meet the requirements of D-Level operator and some knowledge of:
• Water system hydraulics
• Regulations governing water systems.
• Ability to perform preventative maintenance for pumps and motors.
• C-Level operators shall obtain their B-Level water treatment certification within 1 year of being eligible to take the certification exam.

B-Level Certification

• Meet the requirements of C-Level operator and some knowledge of:
• Chemical and biological contamination of surface water and ways to treat it.
• Disinfection of drinking water
• Common filter operation, problems, and remedies
• Working knowledge of water quality standards
• B-Level operators shall obtain their A-Level water treatment certification within 1 year of being eligible to take the certification exam.

A-Level Certification

• Meet the requirements of B-Level operator and:
• Ability to train new employees in plant operations and maintenance.
• Handle most emergency situations with minimal supervision.
• Ability to assume the role of an Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC) within 1 year of hire or passing the A-Level certification exam.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a plant environment. Works near moving mechanical parts; exposed to fumes, airborne particles, and various chemicals, some of which may be toxic. The employee is exposed to various conditions including noisy, hot, and cold conditions.

Hourly Rate

• Operator in Training - $19.75 - $29.62
• Operator D - $22.31 - $33.47
• Operator C - $25.21 - $37.82
• Operator B - $28.49 - $42.74
• Operator A - $32.20 - $48.29

Retention Bonuses

• Operator D - $500
• Operator C - $1,000
• Operator B - $2,000
• Operator A - $3,000

The City of Englewood offers generous sign-on, and annual retention bonuses based on CDPHE water treatment certification levels and candidate knowledge and experience.

Application Deadline

Open until filled.