Operator V U

Job Details

Starting wage dependent upon on state of Washington State DOH certification - WTPO -3 $50/hr., WTPO - 4 $51/hr. and WTPO - 2 $49/hr. (but must be able to obtain a WTPO3 withing 6 months)  Each category increases by $1.25hr. on 5/1/2025.  PLUS signing bonus $10,000  and relocation assistance. 

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement, and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth. In addition to compensation, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k),  Health and welfare through the Teamsters Welfare trust including  medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage.  Also paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more! American Water employees also receive learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally. 

Primary Role

Independently operates, maintains, repairs and inspects water treatment systems at water facility (chemical feed systems, filters, buildings and grounds). Includes the collection of water samples per state regulations, recording data, adjusting chemical feed rates, and other similar duties. Position will also be required to assist with equipment, building and grounds maintenance activities.

Key Accountabilities

• Operates water treatment plant (chemical feed systems, storage tank levels, etc.) to provide compliance with applicable state and federal regulations. Collects and analyzes samples required for compliance and process control. Troubleshoot technical and operational systems. Utilization of plant SCADA system in order to meet plant production goals.
• Performs maintenance of the plant systems. Perform assigned general housekeeping duties. Maintains and calibrates hand-held and on-line monitoring equipment and treatment equipment as required. 
• Follows Company’s Environmental, Health, and Safety Policies, and report unsafe conditions. 
• Takes and records system operation readings according to prescribed schedules. 
• Maintains daily logs, records plant operating data as required in logs and operations software 
• Effective, timely, and respectful communication and interactions with other employees, supervisors, individuals from other organizations, and customers. 
• Performs other related functions assigned or as needed.
   

Knowledge/Skills

• Able to read gauges and meters. 
• Prepare and maintain accurate paperwork such as records, logs, orders, surveys and routine reports as directed. 
• Able to perform accurate mathematical calculations related to this position. 
• Good communication skills will all levels. 
• Perform standardized water process control, monitoring, and compliance sampling and testing. 
• Past working knowledge using mechanical skills, for making minor repairs to process equipment, piping, motors, etc.
• Ability to respond to emergencies 
• Capable of lifting and/or carrying 50lbs. or more on a frequent basis. Walking up and down stairs and long distances. Carrying, climbing, and working from ladders. Working in confined areas. Ability to wear and qualify to wea respirator or SCBA as required. 
• Hands-on experience in light duty electrical power systems (120 V/ single and 480 V three phase) and instrumentation calibration and use. 
• Heavy equipment experience is a plus. 
• Computer skills; MS Word, MS Excel and SCADA systems. 
• Collect water samples for analysis by state lab.
• Knowledge of the techniques, equipment and materials used in the mechanical maintenance and repair of related equipment and systems. 
• Possesses a thorough knowledge of operation and maintenance. 
• Specifically, but not limited to knowledge of methods and precautions in storing and handling chlorine and other industrial chemicals. 
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations. 
• A thorough understanding of operation and maintenance of a drinking water purification plant is required, with at least 3 yrs relevant exp. 
   

Experience/Education

• Three years in operation of water treatment operation and maintenance.
• High School graduate or state recognized education equivalency certificate. College course work and/or degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science or engineering curriculum are desired. Must possess a valid State driver’s license. Attend continuing education as needed for Operator certification renewal. 
• Additional trade specific courses preferred.
   

Certifications & Licenses

• The position requires demonstrated experience and possession of a current Washington State Dept. of Health, WTPO 3 certification or the ability to obtain water operator license. 
• Must possess a valid, active state driver’s license. 
• A Level II will be considered with the ability to obtain a Washington DOH WTPO 3 Cert. within in 6 months as approved by the Washington State certification board.
   

Work Environment

• Employee may be required to perform indoor or outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold or other adverse weather conditions. 
• Must be physically able to complete necessary tasks while wearing an approved respirator as required, as some required work may have potential for exposure to harmful contaminants, environments, noise, etc. 
• Must be able to lift 75 pounds, unassisted. 
• Night, weekend, holiday and overtime work as needed, including on-call assignments.
   

Travel Requirements

Less than 5 %.
 

Competencies