Utilities Wastewater Plant Operator -Trainee

This is a non‑exempt position, which is semi‑skilled work in the operation of a water or wastewater plant on an assigned shift. The employee is expected to earn a "C" Operators license within 24 months of hire. Employees are not expected to be retained in trainee positions for more than 24 months. All work is performed under the supervision and guidance of a certified utility plant operator.

Employees are hired as at‑will employees that serve at the pleasure of the City and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.

• Operate wastewater or water plants and perform routine maintenance and servicing of equipment and machinery.
• Exercise independent judgment in making adjustments to machinery, equipment and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards.
• Work independently on an assigned shift; work is reviewed primarily through analysis of charts and reports.
• Report unusual or major problems to a supervisor and/or lead operator(s) as necessary.
• Perform all required chemical analyses; inspect plant equipment and machinery to determine that all machinery is operating properly; take samples of water or wastewater at various stages of the treatment process; perform routine laboratory analyses to determine effectiveness of treatment procedures and record results; on the basis of sample results, adjust control devices for processes to provide effective treatment; inspect and adjust treatment plant equipment, as it relates to the facilities;
  
  inspect recorders and meters and make necessary adjustments to control the operations as required.
• Perform services and preventive maintenance on a variety of plant equipment and machinery; clean and paint equipment; assist mechanics in major repairs and in installation work; perform general building maintenance and custodial work at plant.
• Instruct new operators in the standard operating procedures; maintain log on process adjustment and prepare periodic summary reports of operations.
• Perform related work in a safe and efficient manner as required and as directed.
• This position does not have final procurement authority.
• Prepare chemical batches as needed for operation.
• Some knowledge of the general operation principles of electrical and mechanical equipment, similar to wastewater or water treatment and pumping plant equipment and machinery.
• Some knowledge of the mechanical maintenance and lubrication requirements of the equipment operated.
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards of the trade and of proper use of safety practices.

• Ability to earn a "C" Operators License within 24 months of hire.
• Ability to make minor repairs to equipment operated.
• Ability to accurately follow routine operating and recording procedures, and to understand and follow instructions.
• Ability to detect faulty operating characteristics in equipment or processes, and to institute remedial action.
• Ability to maintain detailed routine operating records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other City employees, department officials, and the general public.

Graduation from a standard high school or vocational school with supplemental college level courses in wastewater treatment or pollution control. Experience in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment and machinery similar to that in a water or wastewater treatment plant.

This is a designated "Response" classification in the City’s Emergency Operations Plan and will require the employee occupying this position to work for declared emergencies. Attendance at National Incident Management System (NIMS) training at the appropriate level is mandatory.