Job Description

Posting number: 711155

Department: UC Water - Water & WW Ops

Job classification: WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR I

Posting type: Open

Categories: Public Works, Wastewater

Summary

The Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I, under close supervision, assist in the operation of the wastewater treatment plant. This is accomplished by working an assigned shift at the plant; learning from other operators about plant equipment and/or processes and assisting with monitoring equipment and processes for proper operations. Other duties include following all safety rules and protocols; maintaining records; and making rounds of the specific process or processes assigned.

Pay ranges and qualifications are listed below for all levels of a Wastewater Treat Plant Operator.

Examples of duties

Assists with and after completion of training performs process control activities by collecting, testing, and analyzing process control samples; analyzing biological bacteria; conducting settle-ability tests; collecting composite samples; monitoring sludge blanket levels; using automatic samplers for permit compliance; and running additional tests as needed to ensure proper process control.

Assists with and after completion of training monitors SCADA computer workstations for plant equipment and process conditions; maintains flows and loading by continuously monitoring dissolved oxygen, MLSS, return activated sludge rates, ammonia levels, suspended solids levels, alkalinity levels, chlorine residuals and dosage, wasting rates, flows, digester temperatures and levels, chemical feed rates, methane gas pressure and flows, and other process indicators.

Assists with and after completion of training operates the plant by inspecting a wide range of various wastewater equipment for noise, vibration, and any abnormal operating characteristics; performing minor maintenance and preventive maintenance tasks; adjusting flows and chemical feed rates; completing rounds and recording operational data; monitoring SCADA data for daily trends; operating various type pumping systems , aeration systems,, bar screens, grit systems, sand filters, centrifuges, and other plant equipment; briefing other operators at shift change; and assisting maintenance staff with shut down and startup of equipment.

Performs administrative and housekeeping duties by reading and studying the plant O&M manuals and SOP’s; participating in hands-on training; maintaining daily log entries; completing required housekeeping tasks; completing monthly safety checks; and Grade I Wastewater Operator license.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Must have a valid Driver's License and be able to maintain a safe driving history as defined by the Union County Vehicle Use Policy.

WWTP Operator I (Salary range $51,074 - $76,611: Requires a High School Diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED), and no required experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. NC Grade I Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification or the ability to obtain within 12 months. Must obtain an NC Grade II Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator Certification within 18 months of date of hire.

WWTP Operator II (Salary range $57,203 - $85,804):Requires a High School Diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED), and six (6) months of experience at a Grade II or higher biological water pollution control system; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Requires a NC Grade II Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator certification.

WWTP Operator III (Salary range $61,207 - $91,810): Requires a High School Diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED), and two (2) years of experience at a Grade II or higher biological water pollution control system. Requires certification as a Grade III Biological Water Pollution Control System Operator.

WWTP Operator IV (Salary range $66,103 - $99,155): Requires a High School Diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED), and three (3) years of experience at a Grade III or higher biological water pollution control system; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Requires certification as a NC Biological Water Pollution Control System Grade IV Operator.

Supplemental information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery, equipment and tools including computers, calculators, radios, typewriters, compactors, etc. Must be physically able to operate a motor vehicle. Must be able to exert up to 150 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 25 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Requires the ability to maintain body equilibrium when bending, stooping, crouching, climbing, reaching and/or stretching arms, legs or other parts of body to grasp, push, pull or otherwise move objects.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires the need to be sensitive to change and responsive to changing goals, priorities, and needs.