Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I/II

Applications will be accepted until there are a sufficient number of highly qualified applicants from which to make a selection.   Candidates should submit their materials as soon as possible to ensure consideration.  However, interviews may be conducted throughout the recruitment process and this opening may close at any time.

Candidates must attach copies of any required licenses or certifications.

SALARY RANGE
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I: $31.23 – $41.85 per hour
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II: $36.15 – $48.45 per hour

DEFINITION

Under direct supervision, operates and performs routine inspections, checks, and verifications on a variety of plant equipment in connection with the continuous operation of a wastewater reclamation plant and related facilities; performs light preventative maintenance; performs related duties as required.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I is the entry level class in this series.  Initially under direct supervision, incumbents learn and perform a variety of duties in the routine cleaning and operation of wastewater treatment plant equipment, and laboratory equipment.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II is the journey level classification in this series, fully competent to perform a variety of assigned duties related to operation of the plant and laboratory, and the ability to make decisions during an assigned shift, within established guidelines.  This position differs from the Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, which serves as a lead worker for plant staff.

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Ideal Candidate

The ideal Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator can provide exceptional customer service to the public, sometimes in difficult situations.  The successful candidate has prior experience monitoring, recognizing, and responding to unusual operating conditions in a wastewater treatment plant.  Demonstrated knowledge or experience with general pump & motor maintenance is ideal.  The preferred Treatment Operator candidate can respond to and work well in a stressful environment while maintaining employee and environmental safety.   A strong commitment to public safety and a positive work environment are key.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Operation of wastewater treatment plant equipment and facilities;
• Wastewater treatment and reclamation principles, methods, and practices;
• Shop mathematics;
• Basic computer software related to the work, such as SCADA and related electronics;
• Safety rules, codes, and regulations and safe work methods pertaining to the work; basic first aid and CPR techniques;
• Methods and precautions in storing and handling chlorine and other hazardous gases, chemicals, and pesticides;
• Routine process control tests and laboratory procedures;
• Basic troubleshooting techniques for applicable equipment.

Ability to:

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;
• Operate wastewater treatment plant equipment, including automatic control devices;
• Be available for standby duty with a 30-minute response time;
• Perform operating adjustments to wastewater treatment equipment;
• Recognize unusual, inefficient, or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action;
• Accurately read and record data from gauges and meters; keep records and make oral and written reports of work performed;
• Read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams and schematics;
• Perform routine control tests and adjust plant equipment accordingly; take samples and run routine laboratory tests according to established guidelines;
• Provide a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors and contractors; establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees;
• Work safely and independently; interpret and follow safety data sheets and safety regulations.

Education & Experience

Any combination of education or experience that would likely provide the necessary knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain these knowledge and abilities would be: high school graduation or equivalent, and;

• Must be willing to be trained to a Hazardous Technician Hazwoper Level for emergency response purposes;
• Wastewater education desirable;
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I: Twelve months of experience operating pumps, motors, valves, and other instrumentation OR 6 education points as defined by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB).
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II: Twelve months experience as an operator at a wastewater treatment plant.

Licenses, Certificates, and Special Requirements

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Class C California driver’s license, and a satisfactory driving record;
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I: Must have successfully passed SWRCB test to obtain a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I or higher certificate.
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II: Possession of a SWRCB Wastewater Plant Operator Grade II Certificate required.  SWRCB Laboratory Analyst Grade I certificate is desirable.