Wastewater Operator Trainee

Wastewater Operator Trainee

Under the direction of the Operations Supervisor, and/or the Plant Manager, the Wastewater Operator trainee performs housekeeping and monitoring of wastewater facilities and associated systems. Including, but not limited to, headworks, liquid streams, solids handling, odor control, structures, SCADA, and Lift stations; performs a variety of work assignments to ensure acceptable asset conditions, water quality, and health and safety standards are met or exceeded; and performs related work as required to ensure efficient and effective facility operations.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Work collaboratively with supervisory personnel and operator(s) to assure optimal process efficiency, proper monitoring, and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor facility operations by observing, collecting and testing samples, and reading instrumentation (SCADA) to ensure compliant and efficient operations.
• Perform a range of treatment facility activities, including, but not limited to, operation of equipment, housekeeping, monitoring systems, managing equipment performance and process data, process improvement, and record keeping.
• Notify appropriate personnel of needed repairs; coordinate with the Operations Supervisor to perform O&M procedures for treatment assets and lift stations.
• Vigilantly monitor the facility for any breaches of security and alert appropriate law enforcement agencies and/or supervisors, as appropriate for the situation.
• Maintain thorough logs and records in both written and electronic form as required; use these records to improve the function and efficiency of various operations.
• Maintain facility grounds and general housekeeping, as well as the appearance of the facility, in collaboration with other staff and outside contractors.
• Monitor systems and assets during emergencies and scheduled shutdowns; troubleshoot, diagnose, and report problems; respond to emergencies; and schedule and coordinate responses, repairs, clean-up, remediation, etc.
• Observe safety guidelines as required by State statutes and as prescribed by the City of Garland.
• This includes identifying and mitigating safety hazards and assisting with implementing safety programs.
• Coordinate with personnel to receive shipments, monitor unloading processes, record into inventory, and check shipment documents for compliance with standards.
• Learn and comply with applicable City of Garland policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum qualifications

• Possess a high school diploma or GED (an associate degree or trade certification is preferred).
• Maintain a valid Texas Driver's License.

Preferred qualifications

• An associate degree or trade certification
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Class D Wastewater Operators License. (Obtain TCEQ Class D Wastewater Operators License in one (1) year.)

Knowledge, skills & abilities:

• Must maintain knowledge of wastewater treatment process, compliance requirements, operations and maintenance requirements, and reporting/recording keeping requirements.
• Maintain basic troubleshooting abilities for equipment and processes, and be knowledgeable in performing wastewater tests.
• Must communicate effectively, both written and verbally, with supervisors and peers.
• Maintain basic computer skills and electrical and mechanical knowledge.

Physical requirements / work environment

Frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Frequent work performed outside or with exposure to risk including exposure to hazardous chemicals, raw sewage, communicable diseases, loud or constant noise, electricity, humidity, wetness, extreme temperatures, heights, odors, gases, mists, confined spaces, climbing ladders, cramped spaces, and inherent construction related hazards. Position is subject to 24-hour call out, 365 days per year.