Wastewater Plant Operator

Job TitleContinuously monitors mechanical and electromechanical equipment, pumps, gauges, valves, meters, etc, used in the treatment of wastewaters.Job DescriptionThis job description is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all job functions performed. The following are essential duties for this position, performed with or without reasonable accommodation:Primary Collects multiple samples of untreated wastewater throughout the treatment process on a daily basis. Takes samples to the lab for testing and analysis. Checks supernatant and transfers sludge by pumping to appropriate tanks. Operates and adjusts pumps to ensure proper entry of chemicals into tanks and that settings and proper functioning occurs. Reads and records meter readings and prepares daily reports as assigned, makes appropriate adjustments in processing, and records any adjustments as required. Checks waste pump timers to make sure sludge withdrawals are pumped in correct volumes to sludge holding (digester) tanks. Checks operations at headworks area and raw sewage pump station and informs maintenance of any problems. Performs analyses on water samples including dissolved oxygen test, and suspended and settable solids, pH, chlorine, and dechlorination residual. Maintains operations dissolved oxygen and pH measuring equipment. Enters operational data into computer. Monitors all equipment and notifies Maintenance Coordinator and Plant Superintendent of any mechanical problems. Operates Belt Filter Press, including pumping sludge to belt press, mixing polymer solution to sludge, making appropriate adjustments to assure proper flow, moving truck and dumping sludge within the sludge barn.Secondary Performs general housekeeping/janitorial duties as needed. Performs related duties as assigned.Job RequirementsExperience working with equipment and machinery, especially pumps, preferred. Experience working outdoors in all sorts of weather and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions, preferred. Current class I (or apprentice) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification, preferred. Otherwise, ability to obtain the certification within one year from hire, required. Ability to gain knowledge about wastewater treatment, all plant operations and equipment, and basic chemical testing of water quality. Knowledge and understanding of the NPDES permit system and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations concerning plant operations and water quality. Ability to interpret and compile statistical data pertaining to plant operations. Ability to respond to emergency situations and interruption of normal treatment processes.Difficulty of Work and Personal Work RelationshipModerate physical effort is exerted by incumbent in the set up and operation of equipment, including bending, stooping, and movement of extremities necessary to handle equipment controls. Moderate physical effort is frequently required for regular intervals of time. Walking up and down multiple flights of stairs, along with walking several miles per shift. Working 12 hour shifts and lifting up to 25 pounds on a regular basis. Performs majority of duties out of doors in all sorts of weather conditions and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions. Exposed to inadequate lighting and other hazards such as poisonous and explosive gases, and diseases associated with the handling of wastewater.BenefitsWe offer an excellent benefits package to regular full-time and part-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, and personal time off.Eligible employees receive 13 paid holidays per year. They may earn up to 4 weeks (160 hours) of Paid Time Off in their first year of employment and 5 weeks (200 hours) in their second calendar year of employment.The City contributes 100% of the 14.2% of a regular employee's salary to their retirement fund through the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS). Employees may contribute additional pre-taxed dollars to a 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan account to supplement their retirement earnings. The City will contribute double the amount of the employee's 457 (b) contribution to a 401(a) account up to $30 per pay.Health, vision, and dental insurance premiums are subsidized by the City and are available on day one of employment to regular employees. Employees may elect the High Deductible Insurance plan with the City providing an HSA contribution and if the employee is a non-smoker or participating in the Tobacco Cessation program, the employee only plan is at no cost to the employee.Employees and their dependents (ages 3 and up) who are on the City's health insurance may utilize the City Employee Health Clinic.Employees may receive over $2,400 per year in HSA contributions and wellness reimbursements, insurance discounts, and incentives.The City offers life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, and long term disability insurance at no cost to employees. Employees may elect voluntary term life and short-term disability insurance.After 1 year of employment, six weeks of paid parental leave are available to eligible employees.Employee Tuition reimbursment plan.Student Loan Forgiveness: The City of Bloomington is an eligible employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans.City Employees can participate in the Sustainable Commuter Incentive program for financial incentive.City Employees are able to ride the Bloomington Transit for free.*Conditions and restrictions apply. All new hires to the City for American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) positions will initially start out at Step 1 of the assigned pay grade for the assigned position. Then after a 120 day probation, pay will increase to a minimum of a Step 2 for that position, however based on the new hire's skills, knowledge, abilities, and experience the pay could be moved to a higher step.