Water Plant Operator

Purpose of Job

• Maintains proper flow and quality of water by ensuring water pumps, motors, filters, and chemical feeders are operating properly.
• Conducts bacteriological and chemical tests required by state and federal regulations.
• Administers chemicals to treat, disinfect, deodorize and clarify water.
• Conducts plant inspections, performs equipment adjustments, and notifies supervisor of needed repairs.
• Calculates usage of water and chemicals.
• Retrieves water samples and conducts tests.
• Reads gauges and transmits information to supervisor.

• Maintains proper flow and quality of water by ensuring water pumps, motors, filters, and chemical feeders are operating properly.
• Conducts bacteriological and chemical tests required by state and federal regulations.
• Administers chemicals to treat, disinfect, deodorize and clarify water.
• Conducts plant inspections, performs equipment adjustments, and notifies supervisor of needed repairs.
• Calculates usage of water and chemicals.
• Retrieves water samples and conducts tests.
• Reads gauges and transmits information to supervisor.

• Performs routine plant maintenance such as picking up debris around the plant, painting, cleaning out basins, etc.
• Performs custodial functions such as sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, etc.
• Performs other related work as required.

• Maintaining a working knowledge of all facets of water treatment.
• Staying proficient with daily operations and procedures of the plant.
• Demonstrating the ability to adjust to various problems or situations that may arise.

• Laboratory and testing equipment, mechanical tools, pumps, motors, fire hoses, and various hand tools.
• Standard office equipment such as copier, telephone, personal computer, and associated software.
• Automobile and/or truck with radio transmitting and receiving capabilities.
• Light and heavy equipment such as a tow motor (forklift), tractor mower, etc.

• Knowledge of the equipment and materials used in water treatment and pumping operations.
• Knowledge of mechanical equipment and machinery.
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Knowledge of the city’s policies and procedures.
• Ability to learn the processes involved in water purification, including routine chemical tests.
• Ability to inspect machinery and equipment to detect flaws and defects in operation.
• Ability to accurately read simple meters and charts.
• Ability to adjust pumps, chemical feeders, and other plant equipment.
• Ability to diagnose and alleviate pumping, treatment, storage, and water condition problems.
• Ability to understand and follow moderately complex written and oral instructions.
• Ability to write legibly and make accurate arithmetic calculations.
• Ability to operate and maintain the required vehicular equipment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees and the general public.

• Employee will work both indoors and outdoors and will sit, stand, walk, and lift light and heavy objects (more than 25 pounds).
• Employee may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, loud noises, fumes, chemicals, and other toxic substances.
• Employee may also be exposed to potentially hazardous situations.

• Education and Experience:
  
  Graduation from a standard high school or GED, preferably supplemented by courses in chemistry; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to the required knowledge and abilities.
• Required Certifications/Licenses:
  Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Tennessee. Must pass a drug screen and physical examination based on the essential functions of the job given by the city’s designated physician. Must obtain a Grade IV Water Treatment Certification within five (5) years of employment.

• Entry level

• Full-time

• Management and Manufacturing

• Government Administration