Water Treatment Operator

Water Treatment Plant OperatorControls the treatment of plant machinery and equipment to purify and clarify water for human consumption and industrial use. The list below is intended as illustrations of the various types of work performed. These examples are neither restrictive nor all-encompassing of the duties to be performed under this job title.Collecting water samples and conducting tests to determine water quality comply with the standards and regulations of Leavenworth Waterworks and KDHE.Monitor gauges and meters; record required data.Operate to the highest possible standards to provide an uninterrupted water supply.Annual and daily cleaning of water treatment plants.General water plant and grounds maintenance.Records data, such as residual chemical content, water turbidity, water pressure, plant and distribution storage, and flow levels.Repairs and lubricates machines and equipment with hand and power tools.Qualifications: Knowledge of:Chemical and physical processes used to purify drinking water.Basic algebra and chemistry, along with the ability to apply that knowledge to the water treatment process.Standard water treatment operating procedures.Knowledge of disinfection concepts and procedures (e.g., chlorine contact time, residual, demand, and dosage)Skill in replacing chlorine containers and adjusting gas chlorinators.Knowledge of the chlorine disinfection process, including free and combined chlorine and chloraminesBasic knowledge of computer HMI'sBasic knowledge of Microsoft software, including Excel and WordAbility to:Determine processing and treatment requirements.Collect and analyze samples at stages of processing to determine the effectiveness of the treatment process and make any necessary adjustments.Use specialized equipment, chemical feed systems, pumps, electronic equipment, and laboratory equipment.Use computer workstations for data entry, data interpretation, KDHE reporting, and online calibration and equipment monitoring.Identify problems and provide solutions to ensure the proper and efficient operation of the treatment plant.Maintain effective working relationships with management, coworkers, and the public.Understand basic algebra and chemistry and be able to apply that knowledge to the water treatment process.Obtain the knowledge and training to procure a Class I water certification.Education:High School Diploma or GEDAssociate degree in Chemistry, Biology, or another related field preferred.Necessary Special Requirements:Possession of a valid Kansas driver's licenseAbility to attend continuing education classes every two years – 10 hours of water-related courses are necessary to keep the license valid.Work in extreme heat and cold environmentsWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or reach with hands or arms, and to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, climb, or balance.The employee must lift and/or move materials weighing up to and over 100 pounds; frequently lift 25 to 55 pounds; and regularly lift 10 pounds.Drug testing and physical fitness testMust be able to work varying shifts, as assigned.Must be available for emergency situations.Must be available to work holidays, weekends and evenings.Pay Ranges:Operator-in-Training/Class I: $41,000 - $52,000Class II: $46,800 - $62,400Class III: $52,000 - $69,680Class IV: $55,120 - $74,880