Plant Operator I/II/III

Job Description

Job Description

Essential Functions

• Operates water purifications plant, pump stations, wastewater collection and treatment sites.
• Responsible for regulating sewage and chemical flows.
• Reads water meters.
• Mixes chemicals for use.
• Locates underground facilities.
• Assists with emergency repairs.
• Responsible for plant maintenance duties.
• Handles lawn maintenance.
• Engages in plant walk through to ensure maintenance and housekeeping issues are addressed.
• Conducts ETI readings.
• Maintains equipment used.
• Installs home sewage systems.
• Inspects plumbing stations.
• Position is scheduled for on call work as needed.
• Acts as essential personnel in weather related emergencies.
• Performs other duties as required. 

Supervision:  The position reports to the Superintendent. Position does not supervise staff.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Problem Solving: Anticipates problems; sees how a problem and its solution will affect other areas; gathers information before making decisions; weighs alternatives against objectives and arrives at reasonable decisions.
• Attention to Detail: Is alert in a high-risk environment; follows detailed procedures and ensures accuracy; carefully monitors gauges, instruments or processes; concentrates on routine work details. Recognizes and accurately evaluates the signs of a problem; analyzes current procedures for possible improvements; notifies supervisor of problems in a timely manner.
• Flexibility: Adapts well to changing priorities, deadlines and directions; works to eliminate all processes which do not add value; is willing to take action, even under pressure, criticism or tight deadlines; takes informed risks. 
• Responsiveness: Responds to requests for service in a timely and thorough manner; does what is necessary to ensure customer satisfaction; prioritizes customer needs.
• Technical Skills: Working knowledge of water and wastewater treatment plant operations and machinery and of the treatment process; of safety, accident prevention and first-aid methods. Working knowledge of electrical and mechanical plant components and their repair is preferred. Introductory knowledge of chemistry and biology and proper sampling techniques and required laboratory Analysis as outlined in the latest edition of "Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater" and regulations as established within the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act.
• Project Management: Ability to handle a variety of projects with conflicting deadlines and needs.
• Computer Related Skills: Ability to work with MS Office and other software packages, including basic internet use. 
• Additional Requirements: Must be able to pass a urinalysis test prior to employment.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Two years of training under supervision of a properly licensed superintendent.
• Class "V" Wastewater Operator Certificate issued by the Maryland State Board of Waterworks and Waste System Operators required. 
• Valid Maryland Driver’s License and an acceptable motor vehicle record.
• Valid Maryland Commercial Driver’s License.

Physical and Environmental Conditions:

• Work is conducted in a variety of settings some of which provide comfortable lighting, temperature and air conditions, however, some areas will expose the employee to occasional minor discomforts from exposure to less than optimal temperature and air conditions. The position routinely requires lifting or moving of moderately heavy items, such as equipment, boxes (up to 80 pounds) and/or very long periods of walking on a routine basis, and/or standing for long periods and/or frequently requires stooping and bending.
• Work requires special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, carts or machines; working with irritant chemicals, etc. The position may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and light chemical substances such as cleaning solutions; work may require employees to use protective clothing or gear such as masks, gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shields; may require working in adverse weather conditions.
• Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting rooms, e.g. use of safe work place practices with office equipment, and/or avoidance of trips and falls and observance of fire regulations.

Benefits

• Vacation, Sick, and Personal Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Long-Term Disability & Short-Term Disability Coverage
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan
• Tuition Reimbursement

Kent County Government provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.