Wastewater Plant Operator

About the role

The Wastewater Plant Operator position plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient processing of wastewater, contributing to the health and environmental standards of the community.

Responsibilities

• Makes regular tours of plant and equipment such as pumps, aerators, clarifiers, hypochlorite systems, filters, thickeners, etc.
• Collects samples and performs tests such as pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and total suspended solids.
• Ensures safety protocols are followed.
• Performs routine maintenance, housekeeping, and cleaning.
• Responds to emergencies such as spills and equipment failure.
• Operates computer SCADA system to monitor and control motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions, adjust Cl2 dosing and polymer dosing.
• Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, valves, and other apparatus to meet changing operating conditions.
• Troubleshoots process problems.

Requirements

• The operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant.
• The chemical, biological, and physical processes used to treat wastewater, including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection.
• Biological processes, including activated sludge and anaerobic digestion.
• Safety protocols, hazardous chemical handling, and equipment used at a wastewater treatment plant.
• Instruments used in wastewater treatment.
• Basic mathematical concepts such as flow calculations, chemical dosages, and determining concentrations.
• Knowledge of troubleshooting operational problems.
• Operating control panels, pumps, motors, and other equipment.
• Conducting laboratory tests for TSS, ammonia, and other parameters.
• Accurately recording data and flows.
• Communicating with team members and supervisors regarding operational issues.
• Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and determine proper remedial actions.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, moving equipment, and working in varied weather conditions.
• Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively, ensuring that routine maintenance, testing, and reporting tasks are completed in a timely manner.
• Assess situations and make informed decisions quickly when addressing operational challenges or equipment failures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Class C Operator – Florida DEP Class C wastewater license is required and one (1) year experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant.
• Class B Operator – Florida DEP Class B wastewater license is required and three (3) years experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant.
• Class A Operator - Florida DEP Class A wastewater license is required and five (5) years experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant.

Skills

• Knowledge of operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant.
• Understanding of chemical, biological, and physical processes used to treat wastewater.
• Experience with biological processes, including activated sludge and anaerobic digestion.
• Knowledge of safety protocols, hazardous chemical handling, and equipment used at a wastewater treatment plant.
• Proficiency in using instruments used in wastewater treatment.
• Basic mathematical skills for flow calculations, chemical dosages, and concentration determination.
• Ability to troubleshoot operational problems.
• Operational experience with control panels, pumps, motors, and other equipment.
• Conducting laboratory tests for various parameters.
• Accurate data recording and flow monitoring.
• Effective communication with team members and supervisors.
• Physical stamina for lifting, moving equipment, and working in various weather conditions.
• Time management and prioritization skills.
• Decision-making ability in addressing operational challenges or equipment failures.

Benefits

The City of Boca Raton offers robust benefits to their employees, including:

• No-cost employee Medical, Dental & Vision plans.
• Generous Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays + vacation, sick, and 3 floating holidays.
• Continuous Service Benefit: Paid out annually after 5 years of service.
• Flexible work schedule.
• Two pension/retirement options to choose from.