Wastewater Plant Operator

About the Role

Continuously monitors mechanical and electromechanical equipment, pumps, gauges, valves, meters, and other systems used in the treatment of wastewaters.

Responsibilities

• Collects multiple samples of untreated wastewater throughout the treatment process on a daily basis and takes samples to the lab for testing and analysis.
• Checks supernatant and transfers sludge by pumping to appropriate tanks.
• Operates and adjusts pumps to ensure proper entry of chemicals into tanks and verifies settings and functionality.
• Reads and records meter readings, prepares daily reports, makes adjustments in processing, and records any changes.
• Checks waste pump timers to ensure sludge withdrawals are pumped in correct volumes to sludge holding (digester) tanks.
• Checks operations at headworks area and raw sewage pump station; informs maintenance of any problems.
• Performs analyses on water samples, including dissolved oxygen test, suspended and settable solids, pH, chlorine, and dechlorination residual.
• Maintains dissolved oxygen and pH measuring equipment.
• Enters operational data into computer systems.
• Monitors all equipment and notifies Maintenance Coordinator and Plant Superintendent of mechanical problems.
• Operates Belt Filter Press, including pumping sludge, mixing polymer solution, adjusting flow, and moving/dumping sludge within the sludge barn.
• Performs general housekeeping and janitorial duties as needed.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Experience working with equipment and machinery, especially pumps, preferred.
• Experience working outdoors in all weather conditions and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions, preferred.
• Current Class I (or apprentice) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification, preferred; otherwise, ability to obtain certification within one year of hire, required.
• Ability to gain knowledge of wastewater treatment, plant operations and equipment, and basic chemical testing of water quality.
• Knowledge and understanding of the NPDES permit system and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations concerning plant operations and water quality.
• Ability to interpret and compile statistical data pertaining to plant operations.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations and interruptions of normal treatment processes.

Working Conditions

• Moderate physical effort required, including bending, stooping, and movement of extremities to operate equipment controls.
• Frequent walking up and down multiple flights of stairs and several miles per shift.
• Works 12-hour shifts and lifts up to 25 pounds on a regular basis.
• Majority of duties performed outdoors in all weather conditions and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions.
• Exposure to inadequate lighting, poisonous and explosive gases, and diseases associated with handling wastewater.