Primary Role

Working alone or as a member of a team, and under the guidance of a Lead Operator, Supervisor or Manager, provides for the safe operation of wastewater facilities in an assigned area(s) in such a manner as to support a Supervisor or other Operators in complying with the requirements for distributing wastewater treatment and collection as established by the company and state and federal governmental regulatory agencies.  Provides guidance and training to Operators and, as necessary, to less senior Operators and Plant Utility Workers assigned as members of the team.

Key Accountabilities

• Operates, and performs routine duties and care of a wide variety of specialized equipment and apparatus in a plant/treatment facility and/or collection system including pumps, motors, chlorinators, chemical preparation, and feeding; physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes; control equipment and monitoring equipment.  
• Regulates the flow of wastewater and sludge through the treatment processes.
• Maintains records of operations; submits routine reports as assigned. 
• Inspects all mechanical equipment for proper operation.  
• Performs normal lubrication, adjustments, seal packing, minor maintenance, and repairs as necessary. 
• Performs related field and laboratory tests as necessary to monitor and control the facilities. 
• Makes necessary adjustments to equipment, processes, and chemical feeders, as test results may indicate or as instructed by the Lead Operator/Supervisor.
• Responds to customer service calls. 
• May clear clogs and/or make repairs to sewer mains.
• May train other employees in the operation and care of facilities including maintenance, repairs, laboratory work, and safety, as required. 
• May perform duties as Chief/Lead Operator as needed.
• May perform duties as Collection System Specialist as needed.
• Conducts safety inspections and follows safety rules and procedures. 
• Communicate effectively with other operators and supervisors.
• Attends and participates in operational and safety training programs as directed by management.  
• Always interacts with fellow employees and the public in a professional and courteous manner.
• Position is subject to 24 hour call-out and overtime. 
• Performs related work and other duties as assigned; assists other departments as needed.

Knowledge/Skills

Experience/Education

• High School graduate or state recognized education equivalency certificate.        
• Course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or engineering preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in the water supply or wastewater treatment field. 
• Experience in training others in the variety of tasks related to operations and care of all facilities in a safe and proper manner. 
• Experience in servicing, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of machinery and equipment.

Certifications & Licenses

Travel Requirements

• Frequent intrastate travel.
• Frequent out of town, overnight trips.

Work Environment

• Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. 
• Potential exposure to harmful contaminants and harsh environments.
• Exposure to loud noise 
• Potential exposure to wastewater, chemicals, fumes, odors and dust.
• Confined space and electrical hazard conditions.
• Exposure to potentially harmful pathogens and gases in raw unprocessed wastewater creating potential for blood borne/airborne disease.

Physical Requirements

• Able to work indoors and outdoors during adverse weather conditions.
• Able to complete tasks while wearing appropriate PPE.
• Must be able to lift and/or carry 80 lbs. or more frequently.
• Able to walk up and down stairs and long distances. 
• Able to carry, climb and work from ladders.
• Able to remain alert and attentive to surroundings and co-workers. 
• Able to work in confined space environments.
• Able to wear a respirator or SCBA as required.

Other

• May be required to work day, evening, night or rotating shifts as needed. 
• May be required to work weekends, holidays and overtime.
• Must be available for emergency call outs. 
• Must maintain a courteous demeanor when speaking with customers and the public. 
• Must maintain a neat, professional appearance while in uniform and during work hours.

Competencies