WWTP OPERATOR TRAINEE - EPD

WWTP Operator Trainee - 4001

Grade - 106

Pay Range - $22.41 - $31.95/hr - plus a comprehensive benefits package

General Statement Of Duties

Operates equipment, systems and related facility features at the Wastewater Treatment Plant under close supervision; performs directly related work as required.

Distinguishing Features Of The Class

The principal function of an employee in this class is to train to become a state certified wastewater treatment operator and to learn the operational requirements of the Manchester wastewater treatment facility. The objective is that this classification will give individuals the opportunity to become a fully qualified treatment operator. The work is performed under the supervision and direction of WWTP Operators and the WWTP Manager but some leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgement and initiative. This class is distinguished from all other operators by serving in a position under close supervision with a responsibility for on-the-job training as to the treatment processes. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective working relationships with other city employees and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in the Wastewater Treatment Plant facility. The operator trainee will be required to work as the fourth member of an operations crew during the course of the training and will be assigned to work on the night shift at the discretion of the Plant Superintendent.

Examples Of Essential Work

• Studies wastewater treatment processes and trains in all job functions associated with WWTP Operator functions including the sludge incinerator
• Mixes and adjusts chemical doses
• Monitors computer generated information relating to wastewater issues and takes appropriate actions based upon that information.
• Observes variations in operating conditions and makes equipment and process related adjustments
• Notifies supervisor of any actions taken or makes recommendations for changes
• Monitors automated process control system operating levels
• Inspects all equipment and processing areas
• Collects samples and conducts tests of sewage, sludge and water
• Performs calculations and records data according to established procedures
• Interprets results and makes or recommends adjustments
• Maintains a log of plant operations
• Operates pumps and other equipment to control flow, sludge digestion and other processes
• Develops safe and standard operation procedures for plant equipment activities
• Performs routine cleaning and minor maintenance of equipment to include assembly, disassembly, and lubrication of equipment using standard mechanics hand tools
• Operates safety equipment, including a self-contained breathing apparatus, dust masks and face shield, monitoring equipment and instrumentation and related equipment
• Adheres to all safety procedures within the working environment
• Listens and learns about all processes and equipment within the wastewater system
• Communicates and coordinates regularly with trainer, Foreman, and Chief Operator
• Provides guidance and demonstrations to new employees in similar positions
• Keeps supervisors informed of work progress, issues, and potential solutions
• Attends meetings and training to stay current on relevant practices and developments
• Responds to citizen inquiries courteously and promptly
• Coordinates regularly with others to enhance interdepartmental efficiency; and
• Performs additional duties as required by the classification.

Required Knowledge Skills And Abilities

• Substantial knowledge of the principles and practices of wastewater and sludge treatment processes and process control
• Substantial knowledge of procedures of sampling and sample testing
• Substantial knowledge of automated process control systems and related software
• Substantial knowledge of operation and maintenance of plant equipment
• Substantial knowledge of safety procedures in working in confined space and around hazardous materials and hazardous areas
• Some knowledge of Federal Clean Water Act guidelines and other Federal, State and local regulations which affect plant operations
• Ability to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language
• Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions
• Ability to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations
• Ability to operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasks
• Ability to use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions according to written specifications and/or oral instructions
• Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines
• Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology
• Integrity, ingenuity and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.

Acceptable Experience And Training

• Graduation from High School or possession of a GED, and
• Zero to two years of experience in related functions or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.
• Preference will be given to candidates showing proficiency in math and science.

Required Special Qualifications

• Valid Driver's License.
• State of New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification (required to obtain within 18 months of date of hire, failure to obtain the certification within the required time frame will require that the employee be terminated or demoted to an alternative position).

Essential Physical Abilities

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate effectively;
• Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to perform assigned tasks;
• Sufficient manual dexterity with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to work in confined spaces and around hazardous materials;
• Sufficient strength and endurance, with or without reasonable accommodation to lift, carry and move objects, through a full range of motion, up to 20 pounds occasionally, 10 pounds frequently and 5 pounds consistently;
• Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to perform assigned tasks in an outdoor environment.