Treatment Plant Operator

Position Description

Performs operation and maintenance of treatment plants and facilities. Participates in the analysis and troubleshooting of operational problems using available data, and follows the proper course of action to meet plant operating objectives. Work involves responsibility for the efficient operation of water and wastewater treatment plants and routine adjustments to equipment and machinery operating controls. An employee in this class exercises some independent judgment in making adjustments to machinery, equipment and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards. Unusual or major problems are reported to a supervisor for resolution. Work is normally performed under direction of Facilities Superintendent and is reviewed primarily by observation and through chemical analysis, charts and reports.

Job Duties

The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment to the position.

• Takes water and/or wastewater samples, and performs routine applicable laboratory and/or bacteriological analysis to determine treatment results; records results.
• Performs skilled operational and regulatory work in the testing and treatment of City water in compliance with all applicable City, State and Federal regulations and guidelines.
• Adjusts control devices of processes to provide effective treatment; operates gates, valves and other mechanical equipment.
• Inspects and adjusts treatment plant equipment, such as chlorinators, digesters, sludge collectors, filters, chemical feeders, conveyor systems, screens, and related equipment.
• Inspects records, charts, and meters, and on the basis of recorded information makes adjustments to controls in conformance with operating instructions.
• Monitors flow rates, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, temperatures, mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS).
• Operates sludge dewatering equipment.
• Maintains accurate records of all operational parameters.
• Removes sludge, alters flow rates, and adjusts aeration volume, chemical feed rates, and scum removal rates according to established schedules.
• Performs maintenance and repairs to plant equipment such as but not limited to: back flushing clogged lines, removing stoppages from pumps, resetting tripped electrical circuits, repairing chlorine leaks, cleaning bar screen.
• Troubleshoots mechanical and electrical equipment issues; reports issues and coordinates corrective actions as needed with other staff.
• Acts as a temporary lead as directed/when needed.
• May coordinate and oversee the work of other operations staff and employees with trainee status as directed.
• Report malfunctions of equipment to supervisor.
• Performs related duties as directed when such duties are a logical and appropriate assignment to the position.
• Works various shifts and schedules as assigned.
• Responsible for being on-call after hours and on weekends as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; must at minimum possess either a State of Florida class "C" Drinking Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license. Successful applicant not holding both licenses shall successfully complete all FDEP licensing requirements for the non-held license, with the exception of the residency requirement (2,080 hours), within one (1) year of hire date. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of the materials, equipment, and procedures of modern wastewater and drinking water treatment and disposal, and the occupational hazards involved. Working knowledge of the repair and maintenance of chemical application equipment, chemical analyzers, pumps, and related equipment. Working knowledge of chemistry and mathematics as they apply to wastewater and drinking water treatment processes and sludge handling. Working knowledge of FDEP requirements pertaining to water and wastewater treatment. Ability to follow written and oral instructions. Ability to identify necessary maintenance and assist with annual budget preparation. Ability to work under minimal supervision. Ability to maintain treatment facility operation within FDEP required guidelines. Ability to read meters and charts accurately, and maintain records of plant operations, both written and electronically.