WWTP Operator

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR
General Statement of Duties

Performs skilled operational and maintenance functions in the operations of wastewater treatment plants.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class performs a variety of operational, laboratory, and maintenance duties designed to produce safe treatment and disposal of domestic and commercial waste materials. Work includes monitoring the plant's operation through observation, mechanical readings and the results of standard chemical and biological tests and making necessary adjustments in the process as conditions or test results dictate. Work also includes a variety of equipment, grounds and facility maintenance and substantial record keeping of work activities. Employees are subject to hazards associated with wastewater and plant operations including working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dust, mists, gases, poor ventilation, working in small spaces such as sewer pipes, and oils. Workaround wastewater is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on bloodborne pathogens. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent or the Wastewater Treatment Plant Chief Operator and reviewed by observation, conference, and reviewing records for adherence to operations standards, instructions, and safety practices.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Tasks

Makes regular tours of plant and checks bar screens, engines, generators, pumps, settling tanks, filters, clarifiers, disinfection system, and other equipment for proper functioning.

Records data from various meters, gauges, and dials; logs daily, weekly, and monthly activities.

Performs general preventive and scheduled maintenance; assists with major maintenance and repairs.

Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.

Performs routine grounds and building maintenance including mowing, cleaning, and painting. Monitors the operation of the activated sludge plant.

Performs standard laboratory chemical and biological tests.

Orders parts and supplies using the requisition system.

Additional Job Duties

Collects water and wastewater samples. Performs related duties as required.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirement of wastewater treatment plants.

Working knowledge of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.

Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and permitting requirements.

Working knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and necessary safety precautions.

Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper

remedial measures.

Ability to conduct a routine laboratory test.

Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.

Ability to read meters, charts, and technical manuals and drawings accurately and to maintain

records of shift operations.

Ability to operate light to medium equipment.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and superiors.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform the basic life operational functions of climbing physically, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and hearing.

Must be able to perform medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally; and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently; and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Must possess the visual acuity to read gauges, dials, and observe moving parts of machines, to operate a computer terminal and to record and review written records.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from high school supplemented by course work in chemistry or biology and at least one year of experience in the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment, preferably in a wastewater treatment plant; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements

Possession of a Wastewater Operator's Grade I level certificate from the State of North Carolina within 6 months of assignment to this class.