Treatment Plant Operator

Under general supervision, the incumbent operates, inspects, and performs routine preventive maintenance on a variety of equipment related to continuous operation of water and wastewater treatment plants and distribution systems. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that residents have safe and clean water that complies with federal and state drinking water standards. The incumbent may assist in the development and maintenance of local policies for water and wastewater treatment and related systems that comply with federal and state regulations.

This is an entry-level position in the treatment plant operations series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn treatment plant operations activities and methods and perform routine work. Duties may become more complex when experience and certifications are gained. This class is alternately staffed with Treatment Plant Operator II or Treatment Plant Operator III. Incumbents may advance to the Treatment Plant Operator II classification after gaining experience, demonstrating proficiency, and obtaining necessary certifications which meet the qualifications for the higher-level class.

• Any combination of training, education, or experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge and ability is:
  • High school diploma or equivalent, or
  • At least one year of experience in operating mechanical equipment.
• Must possess and maintain, or be able to obtain within one year of employment, a valid Nevada Water Treatment Operator I Certificate at the 1 Level and Nevada Distribution Operator I Certificate.
• Must possess and maintain, or be able to obtain within one year of employment, a valid Nevada Wastewater Grade I or OIT (Operator-In-Training) Certificate.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License and have reliable transportation, including during unannounced emergencies.
• Must be able to respond within 40 minutes or less driving distance to water and wastewater treatment plants located in Virginia City and Gold Hill.

The duties listed below are examples of the work typically performed by an employee in this position. Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned job tasks/duties are not limited to the essential functions. Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Operates pumps, valves, and other equipment via computer controller, hand, or mechanical means to regulate the flow of water and wastewater through various treatment processes.
• Maintains even flow to ensure maximum efficiency of plant equipment.
• Inspects plant equipment and reports any failures or operation deficiencies.
• Initiates work orders and requests repairs.
• Stops and starts equipment as required for repairs.
• Takes samples of water and wastewater during various stages of the treatment process and at established times.
• Makes standardized chemical control tests to measure treatment effectiveness.
• Operates, adjusts, and performs basic maintenance on chemical mixing and feed equipment to ensure compliance with established standards.
• Operates and adjusts sophisticated ozone disinfectant equipment.
• Operates the potable water distribution systems.
• Operates wastewater collection and conveyance systems.
• Reads and interprets meters, gauges, charts, and instruments.
• Changes recording charts and ensures their continuous operation.
• Receives, manages, stores, and uses bulk chemicals for plant operation.
• Cleans, lubricates, and performs routine preventive maintenance of plant equipment and facilities.
• Uses common manual and power tools in the course of work; operates a jackhammer to break up concrete, asphalt, and soil.
• Performs such record-keeping functions as logging plant operations, test results, maintenance work performed, and unusual operating conditions.
• Cleans equipment by using high-pressure water sprayers and associated cleaners.
• Orders tools, parts, and materials as required.
• Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
• Performs basic facility and grounds maintenance in the area of the treatment plant.
• Demonstrates professionalism, courtesy, tact, punctuality, attendance, and discretion in all interactions with coworkers, supervisors, and the public; use common sense discretion with no supervision; remain safe, socially moral, lawful, affective, adaptive, and efficient.
• As needed, may respond to call-outs in emergencies, other than normal working hours, including participation in all-hazard Incident Command System (ICS) activities and assistance in coordinating responses and planning resources.