Water Treatment Plant Operator

About the role

This position performs a variety of skilled technical duties and semi-skilled labor related to the operation and maintenance of the City’s water treatment plant, including water production, treatment, storage, and maintenance of raw water conveyance systems. Plant operators are expected to perform with increasing independence and handle issues of greater complexity as certification levels increase. As a member of the public works organization, this position may occasionally assist with other City infrastructure maintenance and improvement projects. Must be able to work nights, shifts, holidays, and weekends as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Operate the Water Treatment Plant, including collection of raw water, operation of headgates, coagulation, flocculation, clarification, filtration, and chlorination.
• Collect samples for laboratory analysis and interpret results for compliance purposes.
• Monitor and change chlorine cylinders and polymer barrels as necessary.
• Backwash filterbeds based on plant performance.
• Maintain equipment, buildings, and grounds (e.g., cutting weeds, mowing grass, shoveling snow, maintaining ditches and headgates).
• Change charts and recording sheets; inspect motors, pumps, bearings, and gearboxes for overheating and proper lubrication; read master meters for augmentation accounting.
• Maintain records and reports on daily plant activity, including chemical usage, flow rates, and laboratory analysis; report to manager or record in computer systems.
• Perform other work as needed or directed by the manager.

Requirements

• High School Graduate or equivalent.
• Progressive level of certification and experience, as follows:
  • Class A: Current Colorado Class A Water Operators License and a minimum of 5 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Class B: Current Colorado Class B Water Operators License and a minimum of 3 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Class C: Current Colorado Class C Water Operators License and a minimum of 3 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Class D: Actively working towards and/or possession of a current Colorado Class D Water Operators License.

Skills

• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with SCADA or HMI systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of principles of chemistry and biology as applied to water purification, water purification procedures, and standard principles of hydraulics and plumbing.
• Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately during emergencies such as power outages or hazardous chemical spills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong mathematical aptitude to compute dosages, flows, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume; ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including answering questions, providing information to the public, and resolving complaints.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other government agencies, and the public.

Physical Demands

• Ability to handle 150-pound chlorine cylinders and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds.
• Capability to maneuver pumps, motors, and other equipment.
• Continuous physical effort involving standing, stooping, bending, lifting, climbing ladders, and operating/maintaining equipment, often leading to fatigue.
• Exposure to uncomfortable or hazardous working conditions, including harmful noise, fumes, odors, heat, dust, temperature extremes, materials, tools, chemicals, and deadly gases.
• Use of personal protective equipment is often required; constant safety awareness is necessary to avoid slips, trips, and other potential hazards.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(a) and 457 retirement plan options with employer match.
• Personal Time Off accrual.
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability benefits.
• Swim benefit at the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center.