Water Plant Operator

Water Plant OperatorPrimary reason why classification exists: To perform technical and skilled manual work in the operation and maintenance of a municipal water treatment plant. Distinguishing features of the class: An employee in this class is responsible for monitoring and treating the city's drinking water and water supply in the water treatment plant. Emphasis of the work is on performing routine tests to ensure optimum quality of water and efficient operation of the plant. Work includes conducting hourly rounds of the plant, maintaining records, performing tests on water and plant systems, adding required chemicals to water, troubleshooting mechanical problems, assisting customers, and performing related duties. Work is performed under the supervision of a Chief Water Plant Operator or Water Plant Superintendent and is evaluated for quality of water produced, accuracy in tests performed, documentation of records, and efficient plant operations.Illustrative Examples of WorkMakes hourly tours of plant to inspect operations; reads and documents gauge and meter readings and calibrations; adjusts chemical feed rates of equipment; ensures meters and pumps are functioning properlyCollects water samples and performs tests; inspects water plant equipment and biological and chemical systems for proper operation; reports needs for equipment repairsPerforms test on filtered water to determine excess color and records results; conducts tests for turbidity in raw, settled, and filtered water, chlorine residuals in filtered water, alkalinity levels in raw and filtered water, and records all results; calibrates fluoride meter and tests fluoride residual in raw and filtered water and records resultsPerforms tests for coagulation, PH levels, and alkalinity; determines optimal chemical dosages; performs tests for titrations, Baume levels, settable solids, specific gravity, water hardness, carbon dioxide levels, dissolved oxygen, chloride, coliform, alum percentage, caustic percentage, fluoride level, carbon, chlorine, and colorimetric testsBackwashes and rewashes filters using a backwash pump and fills feeder hoppersChecks levels of alum, caustic fluoride, corrosion inhibitor, carbon, coagulant aid, and other chemicals and adds chemicals as neededReplaces chlorine cylinders and regulates the flow of chlorine; calculates chemical dosage, average readings, and plant performance and records in log bookPerforms routine preventative maintenance and repairs to pumps, motors, and other mechanical equipment; reports equipment failures to supervisor for replacementPerforms associated work such as bulk chemical handling, grounds keeping, and housekeeping dutiesParticipates in classroom and on-the-job training to ensure knowledge level and eligibility for certification renewal is maintainedProvides information to citizens, vendors, or others who may need assistance with water plant operationsPerforms related tasks as requiredKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a water treatment plantKnowledge of state and federal water treatment and water quality regulationsKnowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and necessary safety precautionsAbility to make decisions about water quality and water supply in the absence of a supervisorAbility to detect problems in the operation of mechanical equipment and report those problems to a supervisor or the appropriate employeeAbility to conduct routine water quality tests and read meters and charts accurately, and record resultsAbility to perform environmental science calculations and to keep detailed recordsAbility to receive and carry out instructions provided by a supervisorRequirementsPhysical requirements: This is heavy work requiring the exertion of 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, crouching, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions. Vocal communication is required to express or exchange ideas. Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels. Visual acuity is required for visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring or testing devices, assembly of equipment, operating plant equipment including motor vehicles, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work performed, and observing general surroundings and activities. Education and experience: Minimum education qualification for all levels is graduation from high school or GED equivalency. Some experience with basic laboratory bench work; prior experience in a water treatment facility is desired. Must have a North Carolina certificate at the Surface Water Operator "C" level or ability to obtain within one year of employment. Some high school or college coursework in environmental science, physics, and chemistry is desired. Special requirements:Valid North Carolina driver's licenseCertified in first aid and CPR City of Newton