Plant Operator I/II

DEFINITION

To plan, coordinate, and participate in the safe and sanitary maintenance and operation of County special districts facilities, including water and wastewater systems; to ensure State and County compliance with related laws, regulations and standards; and to perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

• The Plant Operator I/II is a flexibly-staffed class series. Positions allocated to the I/II level are normally filled at the I level. Advancement from the I to the II level is at the discretion of the appointing authority, provided that the incumbent meets the minimum qualifications and demonstrates the ability to independently perform the full scope of the assigned duties.
• Incumbents in the Plant Operator I level usually perform most of the duties required of the position at the Plant Operator II level, but are not expected to function with the same amount of knowledge or skill level.
• Assignments are limited in scope and are performed within a framework of established procedures with close supervision.
• The Plant Operator II is the journey level classification in the Plant Operator series. Incumbents are expected to complete assignments with minimal supervision and are given increased responsibility and latitude of judgment to complete assignments.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general direction from the Senior Plant Operator or a higher level management position.

Examples Of Essential Functions

• Monitors the various instruments and general mechanical equipment involved in the operation of a water and wastewater treatment plant; takes appropriate action to remedy adverse situations.
• Takes readings of gauges and temperatures and record readings.
• Reads meters and gauges and regulates the flow of water and wastewater.
• Tests the treatment process for dissolved oxygen levels, pH and temperature.
• Performs engineering calculations such as determine chemical dosage requirements and pump sizing.
• Inspects plant facilities and related areas to ensure proper appearance and to determine maintenance, improvement and repair needs.
• Provides advice and recommendations to supervisor regarding facilities; provides technical guidance and direction to employees in maintenance work methods, materials, standards and operations.
• Keeps logs and records of water samples and machinery operation.
• Ensures adherence to all health and safety standards.
• Receives and responds to inquiries, requests for assistance, concerns and complaints regarding plant policies, programs and projects.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Education

• Minimum Qualifications: High school or GED equivalency is required.
• Experience: Increasingly responsible experience in facilities maintenance or a related field that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.

Additional Requirements

• Plant Operator I: Enrollment in certification-required education courses necessary to sit for the certification exam and the ability to obtain a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate or Grade I Water Treatment Operator (T1) certificate within eighteen (18) months of appointment.
• Plant Operator II: Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate, a Grade I Water Treatment Operator (T1), and a Grade I Water Distribution Operator (D1) certificate issued by the State of California.

Qualifications

• Plant Operator I and II: Possession of a valid California driver's license.

Questions

• Please describe your experience in the operation and maintenance of water distribution systems and wastewater treatment and collection systems.
• Please detail any other training or experience that you feel may qualify you for this position.
• Possession of a valid California driver's license is required for this recruitment.
• Under certain circumstances, the Human Resources Director may accept a valid driver's license from another State if applicant acknowledges his/her intent to acquire a California driver's license within three months by signing an acknowledgement form.
• Do you have a valid driver's license?
• One of the requirements of this position is a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?