WRF Operator Trainee

Job Title

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Job Description

This position is designated as safety-sensitive. As such, a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening are mandatory. The incumbent will also be subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout the duration of employment. Receives classroom and on the job training while assisting other WRF Operators on any shift at their assigned plant treating wastewater to assure the plant effluent is clean and environmentally safe and meets all applicable standards for purity.

Job Duties

Collects materials for samples and performs several types of tests including solids; pH, jar test; reads and records levels of digesters, equalization basin, etc; records appropriate information; notifies WRF Operators of any abnormalities. Checks calibration of chemical feed pumps every two hours. Adjusts Waste Activated Sludge valves settings as needed; pumps out sludge boxes as needed; cleans sample bottles, auto sampler, and other facilities as needed. May operate press machines, checking valve settings and making adjustments as necessary. Mixes polymers and adjusts levels according to solids tests; checks filtrate and cleans tanks. Drains lines and traps; dump press when cycle complete; greases press rails and changes cloths. Cleans press building and basement. Collects and delivers samples for lab analysis; checks equipment to assure proper operation. Records dissolved oxygen readings in aeration basin, flow control structure, and post aeration basin; performs settleometer and spin tests. Provides shift coverage for Operators on approved leave. Performs pH tests on septic tank loads and accepts load if within proper range. Maintains plant grounds; cuts grass, trims shrubs, etc. Paints buildings, equipment, pipes, railways, pumps, etc. as necessary; washes different units. Performs other related duties as required. Employee subject to recall to duty in cases of emergency.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience: High School Diploma or G.E.D. No experience required. Applicants who pass an initial screening will be required take a pre-employment math/science exam to predict their abilities to obtain the required certifications. Licenses and Certifications: Employee must obtain Class III Wastewater Treatment Operator License within one year. Valid Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the principles and practices for the safe operation of plant equipment and related measuring and testing devices. Knowledge of activated sludge and biological treatment of water. Knowledge of the tests used to determine the amount of chemicals present in water. Basic proficiency in mathematics and science. Ability to perform chemical analysis tests and interpret results. Ability to read and interpret charts. Able to lift 50 lbs. Ability to climb up to 70 stairs 05/08.

Supplemental Information

This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Current incumbent qualifies for a promotion to Operator III position upon Plant Manager recommendation and Director concurrence after attainment of a Class III Wastewater Treatment Operator License.

The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer. The City of Gainesville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The City of Gainesville conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.