Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Job Description

 Performs responsible skilled work in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant and related equipment; does related work as required. Work is performed under immediate supervision. 

Essential Functions

• Makes regular tours of plant and equipment assisting in plant operations.
• Monitors gauges, meters, control panels, etc.; controls tank levels and flow rates.
• Records readings from meters and instruments.
• Checks functioning of equipment.
• Operates computer system to control plant flow and machinery.
• Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.
• Pumps sludge, drains tanks, and rotates equipment.
• Cleans and services pumps, motors, and other equipment.
• Makes chlorine feed rate adjustments.
• Operates sludge thickening and dewatering systems.
• Monitors telemetry system; calls out field crews for alarm situations.
• Collects samples and performs routine lab work.
• Cleans Primary Clarifiers, Secondary Clarifiers, Digesters, Aerations Basins. and other process tanks.
• Investigates field calls from customers regarding backups, odors, etc.
• Troubleshoots process problems.
• Makes minor or emergency repairs; performs preventive maintenance on plant equipment.
• Performs general maintenance and housekeeping duties.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Some knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of the wastewater treatment equipment in the plant.
• Some knowledge of hydraulic chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Some knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions.
• Skill in the use and care of laboratory testing and analysis equipment and instruments.
• Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications

MINIMUM AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

High School diploma or equivalent required.

CERTIFICATIONS / PROFESSIONAL LICENSES:

• Must have completed or be currently enrolled in a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approved program to qualify for the Class “C” wastewater operator exam;
• Florida DEP Class “C” wastewater operator exam must be taken and passed within twelve (12) months of employment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must possess a valid State of Florida Driver's class “E” license; 
• Employee is required to wear a respirator while performing certain tasks. Employee must pass a respirator user medical exam and not have any facial hair or other condition which prevents a good respirator facepiece seal;
• Abstained from the use of cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products for at least one year prior to their date of hire, and shall abstain from the use of tobacco products at all times during the period of their employment with the City while both on and off duty.

POST-OFFER BACKGROUND REQUIREMENTS:

The background check process for this position may include:

• Criminal Background Check
• Employment Verification
• Reference Checks
• Motor Vehicles Report (MVR) Check