Wastewater Plant Operator - In Training (WPO-IT)

JOB SUMMARY

Trains and acquires general knowledge of wastewater plant operations through various training components including on-the-job training, classroom, training manuals/books, standard operating procedures, best practices, etc. Under general supervision, perform diversified duties and skilled work in the operation of physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes and pump stations. Perform related work as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

- Operates units by controlling and monitoring equipment and processes manually and through the use of control systems, such as computers, programmable controllers, etc. Operates or monitors more than one unit in a given shift.

- Records operating data. Maintains written and/or digital operating logbooks and records.

- Inspects equipment to assure proper operation; determines operating efficiency of the equipment.

- Monitors, interprets, and records gauges, charts, and meter readings. Initiates changes as determined through operating conditions, process variables, calculations, test results, and interpretation of data.

- Makes necessary changes and adjusts controls to maintain proper operating conditions and achieves specified operational objectives.

- Starts up and shuts down equipment ensuring proper safety and communication procedures are followed.

- Writes maintenance work requests and assists in repairs. Utilizes applicable computer program(s) to create work requests once issues are discovered during the shift.

- Operates a variety of physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes.

- Performs routine physical, chemical, biological, and laboratory tests and records results.

- Performs routine lubrication, adjustment, and inspection of equipment and reports results.

- Performs lockout/tag out of plant equipment including isolation of pressurized water, steam, and chemical systems and low voltage (under 600 volts) motors, motor controllers, and other equipment.

- Responsible for basic housekeeping, including cleaning and maintaining equipment and surrounding work areas.

- Observes safe work practices.

- Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

Candidate must possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE

- Entry into the Operator Training Program (OTP) at the first Milestone: No previous experience is required, however prior experience in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment is preferred.

OR

- Candidate must have the following experience to qualify for entry into the Operator Training Program (OTP) at the third Milestone: Possession of an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate and twenty-four (24) months of wastewater treatment plant experience.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

To be considered for this position, all diplomas, licenses, and other credentials must be on file before bidding closes.

TRAINING

Candidates must possess the ability to complete 6000 tracked hours of relevant and required Sewer District provided training within thirty-six (36) months (or 2000 tracked hours of relevant and required Sewer District provided training within twelve (12) months if entering the program with an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate or higher) from the effective start date in the position.

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS

- Candidate must possess an Ohio EPA Class I Wastewater Operator Certificate within twenty-four (24) months of the employee’s effective start date in the position.

- Candidate must possess an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate within thirty-six (36) months from the employee’s effective start date in the position.

- Candidate must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record in accordance with the Sewer District’s acceptable guidelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

- Candidate must have the ability to successfully complete proficiency tests in basic reading, writing, math, and computer skills.

- Candidate must possess the ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on interpretation of data and known unit goals. Ability to use a variety of hand and power tools. The ability to be reliable and punctual in reporting to work as scheduled.

- Candidate must have the ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts for the 24-hour/7 day per week operation. Candidate must have the ability to work unscheduled hours to fill-in for vacant shifts, emergency, or unusual situations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

- During the course of performing the essential functions of this position the employee must be able to compare, compute, analyze, synthesize, copy, compile, coordinate and instruct. Ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, kneeling, handling, feeling, hearing, walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, reaching, fingering and talking. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, far acuity, color vision and accommodation. Noise exposure for this position may be loud on occasion. While performing the duties of the position, the employee must be able to spend up to 60% of time outdoors and may experience exposure to extreme weather, atmospheric conditions, vibrations, extreme heat, hazards, restricted working environment and wet and/or humid conditions wearing required personal protective equipment.

- For a complete list of job demands review the Essential Demands Checklist.

Our Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Our Accessibility Statement

Our Employee Benefits & Wellness Programs

We offer a comprehensive employee benefits package including Health Insurance Coverage, Various Retirement Planning Options (Ohio Public Employee Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Plans), Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Free Parking at our facilities, Corporate Discounts, and more! We also have an active Health & Wellness Program that promotes a life/work balance.

NEORSD supports the use of hybrid work as a way to help attract and retain talented individuals in public service, increase worker productivity and better prepares the agency to operate during emergencies. This position may be authorized for hybrid work. hybrid eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

DISCLAIMER: The information outlined in this job description indicates the general nature and type of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities or competencies required of employees within this classification.