Operations Technician

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOBUnder general supervision, performs responsible technical and skilled work in the operation and minor maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant and related facilities for the City Water Reclamation Department. Work involves collecting lab samples; performing required analyses and tests for D.E.P. testing compliance; and checking filters, chlorinators, various machines and reading meters, gauges and dials. Employee is also responsible for assisting with the loading and unloading of the greenhouse biosolids, A.S.R. well monitoring, maintaining records of readings, and making adjustments and repairs to equipment as required. Independent judgment and initiative are required based on training and experience in making decisions and coordinating the proper operation of equipment. Reports to the Chief Operator.SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONSMonitors and maintains proper surveillance of all plant processes, equipment and controls to ensure efficient operation of the plant and compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations. Starting Wage for Class C $23.63 per hour; Class B $24.74 per hour; Class A $25.89 per hour, with shift differentials for 2nd and 3rd shift. Full benefits package. Position may require weekend and holiday work, to include religious holidays.Monitors process variables, making changes as determined by flow, controls, instrumentation analysis, calculations, and visual observations; checks filters, chlorinators and chemical feed discharges; reads meters, gauges and dials, and maintains reports of readings.Performs preventive maintenance and minor repair of plant equipment, including the lubrication of motors and pumps.Obtains wastewater samples at various stages of the treatment process and assists with laboratory testing analysis for D.E.P. testing compliance, calibrates lab bench meters and continuous monitoring for D.E.P. compliance.Loads biosolids in and out of greenhouse, monitors greenhouse sludge drying process, samples biosolids for D.E.P. testing compliance, assists with the automation of loading and unloading the greenhouse biosolids.Monitors injection flow rates and pressures, Samples production and monitors wells for D.E.P. testing compliance.Prepares and submits required records and reports. Creates and maintains spreadsheets for logging data.Maintains general cleanliness of the plant and performs various grounds keeping tasks such as mowing grass, weeding, and edging.Monitors and participates in shutdowns and start-ups of equipment as directed.Receives complaints and/or inquiries from Utilities customers and/or the general public pertaining to utilities and personnel activities, policies, procedures, etc., and directs such maintenance work as warranted by customer inquiry or complaint.ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONSAssists in training new personnel.Performs other related work as required.MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCEGraduation from high school supplemented by college-level course work in chemistry, biology, math, or related courses, and 1 to 2 years of experience in wastewater treatment plant operations; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.Computer literacy required, including familiarity with computer S.C.A.D.A. systems and Microsoft Office Suite.SPECIAL REQUIREMENT**Performance/Incentive policy outlines pay advancement based on achievement of varying levels of certification.Possession of a Class "A" License as a wastewater treatment plant operator from the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection.Possession of a Class "B" License as a wastewater treatment plant operator from the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection.Possession of a Class "C" License as a wastewater treatment plant operator from the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIREDTO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONSPhysical Requirements: Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including calculators, meters, filters, samplers, pumps, hand tools, etc. Must be physically able to operate motor vehicles. Must be able to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Requires frequent reaching, kneeling, lifting and climbing. Physical demand requirements are for Heavy Work. #J-18808-Ljbffr