Posted on Jan 25, 2023
Under close supervision, this position is responsible for assisting with the operation and maintenance of the Waterworks Water Treatment and Distribution Systems during assigned shift. Reports to a Water Treatment Plant Shift Supervisor.
 
There are three (3) levels of Water Treatment Plant Operator distinguished by the level of work performed and the qualifications of the employee.
 
Type: INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location: WATERWORKS
Job Family: EQUIPMENT/LABORER
Posting Start Date: 01/18/2023
Posting End Date: 02/08/2023
 
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Assists with the operation of a water treatment plant and records data regarding treatment plant and distribution system including pressures, tank levels, flow rates and water quality using a computerized system; adjusts system pressures and tank levels through the use of high service pumps and booster stations. Assists with or performs chemical testing, including but not limited to pH, chlorine residual, fluoride concentration, color, hardness levels, turbidity and alkalinity, and determines proper corrective measures based on test results.
 
Performs plant maintenance such as cleaning and backwashing intake screens, cleaning and calibrating chemical feeders and assisting with cleaning clarifier basins. Assists with diagnosing problems with mechanical or electrical equipment and performs tasks such as isolating valves, pumps or motors as necessary. Records and maintains operational and laboratory data; assists with the preparation of daily and monthly reports.
 
Performs other duties as assigned.
 
PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.
 
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE
  • Water Utility and Distribution Management – Knowledge of water utility organization and operations as well as the principles, practices and methods utilized in the treatment and distribution of potable water in a public water supply system.
  • Laboratory Analysis – Knowledge of chemical and bacteriological principles, terminology, analytical techniques and methods, and equipment pertaining to the analysis of water.
  • Water Regulations - Knowledge of EPA and state laws and regulations that apply to drinking water. Knowledge of the processes and treatment techniques involved in drinking water treatment.
  • Safety - Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, and safety regulations related to equipment operation, and other work related precautions.
REQUIRED SKILLS
  • Judgment and Decision Making — Evaluates the best method of research and then exercises appropriate judgment in establishing priorities and resolving complex matters. Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Interpersonal Relationships – Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments and organizations.
  • Technology – Ability to utilize personal computer applications to include database administration, word processing, spreadsheet, SCADA and related software.
REQUIRED ABILITIES
  • Communication – Ability to communicate complex ideas and proposals effectively so others will understand. Excellent ability to listen and understand information and ideas presented through spoken word or writing.
  • Time Management - Plans and organizes daily work routine. Estimates expected time of completion of elements of work and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Implements work activities in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.
  • Mathematics – Ability to perform arithmetic, algebraic, and statistical applications to perform laboratory analysis.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Requires a high school diploma or GED.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
An acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check and a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
 
This position requires satisfactory results from a pre-employment medical evaluation to include substance abuse testing, respirator clearance, audio and color vision exam and is subject to random alcohol and controlled substance testing.
 
Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee – Requires a high school diploma or GED.
This position must obtain a Commonwealth of Virginia Class 3 Waterworks Operator’s License no later than attaining two years of experience at a Class 4, Class 3, Class 2 or Class 1 waterworks facility.
 
Water Treatment Plant Operator 3rd Class - Must possess a Commonwealth of Virginia Class 3 Waterworks Operator’s License and must obtain a Commonwealth of Virginia Class 2 Waterworks
Operator’s License no later than obtaining three (3) years of experience at a Class 4, Class 3, Class 2 or Class 1 waterworks facility.
 
Water Treatment Plant Operator 2nd Class - Must possess a Commonwealth of Virginia Class 2 Waterworks Operator’s License and must obtain a Commonwealth of Virginia Class 1 Waterworks Operator’s License no later than attaining five (5) years of experience at a Class 1 waterworks facility.
 
Must obtain required number of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits each license cycle to maintain licensure.
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Tasks require the ability to exert moderate, though not constant physical effort.
  • Some combination of climbing and balancing to include climbing ladders, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
  • Some lifting to include overhead lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (10-20 pounds).
  • May occasionally involve heavier objects and materials (up to 60 pounds).
SENSORY REQUIREMENT
  • Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of color, sounds, odor, depth, and visual cues or signals.
  • Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES
Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dust, pollen, odors, temperature, weather and noise extremes, hazardous materials, heights, confined spaces, machinery, vibrations, high voltage electric currents, traffic hazards, toxic agents, water hazards, disease, or pathogenic substances.
 
Candidates will be considered for lower level Water Treatment Plant Operator positions.

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