Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Under the direct supervision of the Chief Wastewater Plant Operator, serves in an entry level training position involved in assisting in the operation and maintenance of wastewater plant facilities according to federal, state, and local regulations and established procedures. Duties include record keeping, analysis, testing and maintenance activities associated with the operation of wastewater treatment facilities, which must be accomplished in an accurate, timely and complete fashion. The employee learns and performs similar tasks as a Wastewater Plant Operator I, II, and III while under the close supervision and instruction of a Class C certified wastewater operator, or higher. Once skill and competency are shown in the performance of technical tasks and ability to meet, at a minimum, the requirements for a Florida Class "C" Wastewater Operator's License are demonstrated and such license is obtained, the employee will be promoted to the Wastewater I Plant Operator position.

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Operates and regulates the collection, treatment, and disposal of wastewater in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and established procedures. Performs duties under close supervision in a learning capacity. Assists with performing remote monitoring and control of processes and equipment utilizing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer systems. Takes and charts all necessary readings. Takes control samples and runs tests. Makes all chemical and pressure adjustments necessary based on readings and according to specified guidelines applicable to the proper operation of wastewater plants. Records daily operation of pumps, including pressure, flow readings, pump hours, chlorine usage and levels, and pump function; takes corrective action as required. Operates and maintains wastewater collection system pump stations and infrastructure. Prepares D.E.P. reports regarding overall operation of wastewater plant as required. Prepares daily operating sheet, the daily operating summary, the shift changeover sheet, and daily maintenance sheet. Periodically reads flow meters, gauges, and dials and records data for reports. Prepares and maintains records of all repairs and adjustments made to wastewater facilities and equipment. Runs qualitative analysis on wastewater and corrects chemical settings. Performs process control calculations and interprets data. Takes samples and prepares them for testing to ascertain quality of treatment. Collects specimen samples and performs routine laboratory tests. Records results according to prescribed state guidelines. Inspects, cleans, and monitors the functioning of mechanical equipment. Pumps sludge and hoses down sludge tanks. Rakes bar screens. Pumps down, back flushes and hoses tankage and equipment. Cleans lines and pipes. Participates in routine maintenance work and repair functions for pumps, tanks, aerators, filters, motors, pulleys, drive belts, solids and chemical handling facilities, and all related wastewater facilities and equipment. Performs maintenance, repair and cleanup of buildings and grounds as needed. Participates in routine operations and maintenance of the wastewater collection and conveyance system and the reclaimed water distribution system. Responds to customer inquiries and complaints, providing information or directing to appropriate personnel. Follows OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations. Provides supervisor with timely accurate records concerning treatment plant activities and conditions as directed. May be required to operate a motor vehicle in performance of assigned tasks. Abides by all federal, state, and local safety rules and regulations. Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned that are consistent with the scope, purpose, and level of responsibility of the position. Such duties may vary based on operational needs but will align with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee. Remains available for emergency situations on an on-call basis.

Required Education, Experience, License, Registration, and Certification Qualifications

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED
• No experience required
• Preferred candidate will have education in computer science, electronics, math, chemistry or biology, and training or work experience in the operation or maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
• Must acquire a State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification within 18 months of hire, as a condition of continued employment.

Supplemental or Additional Information

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Knowledge of wastewater treatment facilities operations and maintenance.

Knowledge of related laboratory operations and procedures.

Knowledge of basic mathematical principles and basic measurements.

Knowledge of occupational safety rules and practices.

Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations in wastewater treatment and disposal.

Ability to learn Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition SCADA, instrument calibration, process control, microbiology; and mechanical, electrical, and chemical processes.

Ability to read a variety of technical materials relevant to wastewater regulatory practices and technical aspects of wastewater operations and maintenance.

Ability to prepare and maintain accurate reports and records.

Ability to work effectively with other employees and the public.

Ability to follow complex oral and written directions.

Ability to work shift assignments or to be on call to respond to emergencies.

Ability to work in all weather conditions.

Skill in operating and maintaining equipment involved in wastewater treatment and disposal.

Skill in basic mechanics and data conception.

Skill in problem solving, troubleshooting, and record keeping.