WATER & SEWER PLANT OPERATOR I

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

An employee in this class is responsible for skilled technical work involving the operation and maintenance of the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. Work includes monitoring plant processes, adjusting equipment and controls, collecting samples, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The employee performs routine and preventative maintenance and responds to plant alarms or system malfunctions. Duties are performed under general supervision and reviewed through observation, reports, and plant performance.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate, monitor, and adjust wastewater treatment equipment including pumps, motors, aerators, clarifiers, and sludge processing systems.
• Observe and interpret SCADA readings, meters, and gauges to ensure proper plant operation.
• Collect wastewater samples and conduct routine laboratory testing for parameters such as pH, BOD, TSS, ammonia, and dissolved oxygen.
• Maintain logs and records of plant performance, equipment readings, and lab results.
• Perform basic mechanical maintenance and cleaning of equipment, including lubrication, filter replacement, and flushing.
• Identify and troubleshoot abnormal operating conditions or equipment malfunctions.
• Assist with biosolids handling and disposal procedures.
• Monitor and document chemical usage; handle chemicals safely and in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
• Respond to alarms and emergencies during assigned shifts and while on-call.
• Perform housekeeping duties including cleaning tanks, weirs, and general plant grounds maintenance.
• Support compliance with the plant’s NPDES permit through proper operation and documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of wastewater treatment processes and equipment.
• Understanding of environmental regulations and safety procedures related to wastewater operations.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, charts, and computer screens.
• Skill in collecting and analyzing wastewater samples.
• Ability to accurately maintain records and prepare routine reports.
• Basic troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and basic computer applications.
• Ability to work independently and respond effectively to emergencies.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and communicate clearly with staff.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires medium to heavy physical effort. Work involves prolonged standing and walking, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 75 pounds. The employee may work in confined spaces and is exposed to loud noise, fumes, hazardous chemicals, wastewater, and extreme temperatures. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection, is required. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and may include rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency callouts.

DESIRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

Graduation from high school or GED required. Prior experience in the operation of water and/or wastewater treatment facilities is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• This position serves as a relief operator, providing coverage for other Water and Sewer Plant Operators when they are out sick, on vacation, or on other forms of leave. The regular schedule for this position is typically 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., four days per week; however, when filling in for other operators, the employee must be able to work that operator’s assigned 12-hour shift (either 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) as needed. Flexibility in scheduling and the ability to workdays, nights, weekends, and holidays on a relief basis is required.
• Must possess a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.
• Must obtain a North Carolina Grade 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification within 12 months of hire.
• Higher certifications (Grade 2, 3, or 4) are preferred and may be required for advancement or pay increases.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applications may be obtained from the Human Resources Department (located in City Hall) or on the City of Thomasville’s website at https://www.thomasville-nc.gov (visit the Employment Opportunities page).

SELECTION PROCESS:
Applications will be reviewed to select the best qualified applicants. Selection will be by a structured interview process.

THE CITY OF THOMASVILLE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, GENDER, COLOR, CREED, AGE, DISABILITY OR NATIONAL ORIGIN