Water Systems Operator

Primary Role

Responsible for performing skilled work in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment facility to ensure the facility is operating in a manner which meets all state and federal regulatory requirements including startup, shutdown, and periodic operating checks, and adjust plant equipment such as pumping systems, chemical feeders, auxiliary equipment, and control systems storage tank levels and pump station indicators. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Lead Operator or Plant supervisor.

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Key Accountabilities

• Responsible for the startup, shutdown, and periodic operating checks of water treatment plant.

• Adjust plant equipment such as pumping systems, chemical feeders, auxiliary equipment, and control systems.

• Monitor storage tank levels and pump station indicators.

• Inspects plant every hour or as scheduled, recording all data and problems on daily log.

• Performs routine preventative maintenance such as operating adjustments, cleaning and painting equipment.

• Performs routine maintenance of plant grounds and buildings such as painting, cleaning, snow removal and other repairs.

• Loads and unloads chemicals used at the treatment plants.

• Performs minor corrective maintenance on plant mechanical equipment.

• Monitors flow, pressures, chemical feeds, levels, and water quality indicators.

• Collects water samples and perform laboratory tests on samples for turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, ph, fluoride, and chlorine.

• Maintains plant records such as operating logs, chemical feeds, temperature, levels, and pressures (various equipment is located through plant facilities).

• Must be able to comprehend analytical methods described in "Standards Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.”

• Backwashes multimedia filters as needed.

• Records all operating data on daily work sheet from laboratory analysis and flow metering equipment.

• Acquires knowledge of metric system to use for calibration.

• Conducts safety inspections and follows safety rules and procedures.

• Communicates effectively with outer operators and supervisors on the technical level.

• Answers calls from the Alton call center, and relay information to supervisor as requested.

• Calls out employees in other departments as directed.

• Attends and participates in operational and safety training programs as directed by management.

• Interacts with fellow employees and the public in a professional and courteous manner at all times.

• Performs related work and other duties as assigned; assists other departments as needed.

Knowledge/Skills

• Basic knowledge of the principles and safety practices of wastewater or water distribution, pumping, collection, and treatment, each as they may apply to area of responsibility.
• Basic understanding of the mechanical, chemical, and biological processes and related equipment, as well as an awareness and alertness regarding operational modification necessary in both routine and emergency situations.

Experience/Education

• High School graduate or equivalent required. College course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science or engineering preferred.
• One to two years of experience in the water/wastewater treatment field preferred.
• Experience in servicing, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of machinery and equipment preferred.
• MO Water Treatment license preferred or ability to obtain within company guidelines.
• Valid drivers license required with the ability to pass a motor vehicle check.

Work Environment

Outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold, and other adverse weather conditions. May be required to work in buildings, in pits, on scaffoldings or in confined spaces. May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards and electrical equipment.

Must be able to perform essential functions and meet the physical requirements for the position including:

▪ able to stand, walk, climb stairs, or sit for long periods of time

▪ able to wear SCBA and perform job functions in a hazardous environment

Competencies