WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is routine but important work involving responsibility during a shift for the efficient operation and maintenance of a Wastewater Treatment Plant. The incumbent operates a variety of plant equipment and machinery and performs laboratory tests and other analyses relative to wastewater treatment processes. The work is performed under general supervision of an operator qualified to be in charge of the operation of the plant with some leeway allowed for the exercise of independent judgment in planning and carrying out the details of the work. Supervision may be exercised over subordinate employees in the performance of their assigned duties. A Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator does related work as required. Typical Work Activities: Operates wastewater treatment plant equipment and machinery; Performs permit sampling on influent and effluent, records results and reports adverse results to higher level authority; Performs approved laboratory analyses and sampling procedures; Inspects and makes minor repairs to machinery and equipment; Performs scheduled and preventative maintenance on equipment and machinery; Records readings from meters and gauges; May treat and dispose of sludge; Adds chlorine to sewage; Cleans channels, screens, tanks, and other equipment; Keeps a log of plant operations and related records; May assist in the instruction of trainees; May supervise the work of subordinate employees; Performs custodial duties in connection with maintenance of buildings and grounds; FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Good knowledge of the practices used and the equipment required in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant; good knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations applicable to a wastewater treatment plant; working knowledge of the principles and applications of physics, chemistry and bacteriology as applied to sewage treatment and disposal; skill in the operation and repair of pumps, valves and related mechanical and electrical equipment; ability to perform laboratory work in conformance with requirements of certification authorities; ability to read, understand and record data from gauges, scales and meters; ability to make routine laboratory and field tests for control of plant operation; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions; ability to analyze and organize data and prepare records and reports; mechanical aptitude; alertness and dependability; physical condition sufficient to perform the essential functions of the position. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS : At the time of appointment, applicants must be currently certified as wastewater treatment plant operators by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. This certification must be at or above the minimum level necessary as prescribed by law (as described in 6NYCRR Part 650 Qualifications of Operators of Wastewater Treatment Plants). At grade 1, 2, 3, and 4 plants, operators must be minimally certified at the 1/1A, 1/1A, 2/2A, and 3/3A levels respectively. At grade 1A, 2A, 3A, and 4A plants, operators must be minimally certified at the 1A, 1A, 2A, and 3A levels respectively. Appropriate certification must be maintained throughout employment.