Assistant Plant Operator

Performs a variety of tasks for the proper and efficient operation of the water treatment process. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring a sufficient water supply, which complies with state and federal water quality regulations to ensure public safety. This position works on a 4-week rotation cycle. In any given week, one team is on day shift, one is on night, one is transitioning/on a short break, one is off duty.

Shifts are 12 hours in length.

• Performs all functions of the position in a safe and conscientious manner, with constant regard for the safety of fellow employees and the general public. Complies with all company prescribed safety policies and procedures. Performs all duties as assigned by supervision.
• Some duties may be directed by the Plant Operator, who is the licensed operator in charge of the plant. Operates, inspects, and controls electric motors, diesel engines, pumps, and valves to regulate the water treatment process. Monitors and controls feed rates of chemicals including, but not limited to, chlorine, ammonia, alum, fluoride, potassium permanganate, polymer, powdered activated carbon and corrosion inhibitors into water treatment process.
  
  Understands the impact of the chemicals on the finished product.
• Uses judgment to react to changing raw water conditions as they relate to proper treatment of water. Fills treatment chemical day tanks via the use of automated transfer equipment and/or manually conveys materials from drums, bags, or barrels to feed equipment. Documents chemical feed activities and system performance with written reports and automatic charts. Records data, such as residual content of chemicals, water pressure, power consumption, water output, and chemical consumption.
• Monitors SCADA system, checks charts, and adjusts controls to regulate flow rates and water storage and distribution of water. Cleans and lubricates machines and equipment, using hand tools and power tools. Collects and tests water samples to determine basic water quality parameters including, but not limited to, chlorine residual, pH, alkalinity, bacteriological analysis, fluoride, zinc, aluminum, particle counts, and turbidity. Inspects equipment and control devices for damage to the water treatment plant and piping systems, and reports as necessary.
• Calibrates laboratory equipment to ensure quality control and prepares bacteria monitoring media, as necessary. Turns valves, pulls levers, flips switches, and operates SCADA system to run and control motor driven pumps and equipment. Reads flow meters and gauges to regulate equipment according to water consumption and demand. Maintains plant buildings and grounds to appropriate appearance standards including, but not limited to, the clean up of chemicals accidentally spilled.
• Accurately records daily weather information. Answers customer service calls and directs them accordingly. Operates waste valves and equipment to properly discharge waste.
• Drives company vehicles.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Familiarity with the operations of SCADA computer systems for utilities.
• Basic computer skills and the technical, academic and physical ability to perform the duties of the job.
• Able to readily read, understand, and accurately follow operating instructions.
• Able to discern between the relative importance of assigned duties and have the proper regard for the use of time and equipment.
• Possess an awareness of the responsibility to safeguard the water supply.
• Able to send and receive instructions by radio, phone, and computer.
• Able to cooperate with and assist other employees.
• Work effectively under pressure.
• Neat, reliable, resourceful with a retentive memory, and able to think and act promptly.

• GED/HS Diploma
• Less than one year experience

• Works overtime as required.

• Virginia Water Treatment Operator's License Class 1 is preferred.