WWTF Operator

WWTF Operator

Springdale Water Utilities is now accepting applications for the position of WWTF Operator

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Wastewater Operations Supervisor, performs skilled work assignments required for operation of Springdale’s advanced Wastewater Treatment Facilities. This position supports our Mission of providing safe, high quality drinking water to our patrons and to responsibly treat and dispose of wastewater generated by patrons and protect public health. Experienced operators are expected to assist in the training of operators with less experience and will assume the responsibility for actions taken by an operator in-training when working together. This is a safety sensitive position.

Plant operators are assigned to work twelve-hour and eight-hour shifts. Shift

assignments require working on weekends and holidays, and to work overtime. This position is a relief position. Base hours vary.

GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The following are examples of essential duties and responsibilities:

· Operate and check all equipment and processes throughout the facilities, both physically and through the use of SCADA and other monitoring equipment to ensure optimal operation.

· Collect samples, manually and using autosamplers, throughout the facilities for instantaneous or preserve as needed for future analysis.

· Analyze samples as needed for NPDES permit reporting and process control including but not limited to dissolved oxygen, pH, and nutrients. Assess results to determine proper operation of facilities.

· Report and/or correct any problems identified. Troubleshoot equipment when necessary. Make procedural modifications as necessary.

· Perform custodial/maintenance duties including general housekeeping, groundskeeping, preventative/light maintenance. Maintain a clean and safe work environment.

· Receive customer service calls outside regular business hours and as needed, and relay information to proper duty personnel for timely response.

· Keep and maintain accurate logs and check sheets of activities and plant operational status, both on paper forms and on computer spreadsheets.

· Communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.

· Operate solids dewatering and drying processes.

· Perform routine checks, tests, and maintenance of boilers.

· Assist in inventory control of chemicals, supplies, and spare parts.

· Wear all appropriate PPE as required.

· Provide assistance to other WWTF and Utility divisions as necessary.

· Perform any other specific task or duty assigned by supervisors/managers.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES TO MEET JOB REQUIREMENTS

Incumbents must have the following qualifications:

· Knowledge of basic chemical, physical and biological principles

· Ability to learn the principles, practices, materials, and procedures pertinent to advanced biological wastewater treatment

· Ability to absorb, analyze and apply new technical information

· Ability to communicate technical information clearly and concisely

· Ability to accurately log instrument readings and operating information

· Demonstrate sufficient math skills needed to perform wastewater treatment calculations and to pass State Certification exams, Boiler Licensing exams, and other examinations as may be required for the position.

· Ability to understand basic mechanical principles as they relate to wastewater treatment equipment

· Capable of using good judgment and making decisions in unusual and emergency situations as well as during routine operations

· Skill in the use and care of a variety of hand tools and equipment

· Ability to interact in a professional and respectful manner with staff and the public

· Demonstrate the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

· Demonstrate the high level of integrity and ethical behavior required by a position of this importance.

· Demonstrate the ability to work safely and efficiently

· Ability to attend work on a regular and dependable basis

· Ability to work within established guidelines with little direct supervision

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Personnel at the Wastewater Treatment Facilities work at a site designed to optimize working and safety conditions. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient mobility to gain access to all sites, including different levels, and to maneuver across hazardous surfaces and walkways which can be slippery or contain open grates. Facilities personnel are expected to work outdoors in inclement weather and in several different environments within the facilities, often moving from indoors to outdoor work stations. Temperatures within the facilities range between hot and cold, and some portions of the facilities require ventilation. Facilities conditions warrant extra precaution when working near high voltage switchgear and equipment; potential contact with a variety of combustible, corrosive and toxic chemicals and gases such as chlorine, sulfur dioxide, alum, polymers, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and oxygen; and working around raw sewage. Exposure to odors, dust, sludge, high noise levels, machinery vibrations, and other hazards are experienced daily. Daily work assignments require walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, and controls; and reaching with hands and arms. Lifting is generally restricted to objects weighing less than 20 pounds; however, operators may be required to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Required vision abilities include close vision, good color perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Associates degree or higher in a related science or technical field or equivalent experience level is preferred. Incumbents must be able to acquire within one year of being eligible a Class I Wastewater Operator’s License issued by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality in order to remain employed in this position. Incumbents are expected to acquire within 12 months of being eligible to test, a Class III Wastewater Operator’s License issued by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality, with a Class IV strongly recommended. Incumbents must be able to acquire a High-Pressure Boiler License and may also be required to obtain a CDL. The Utility’s compensation system is designed to motivate employees to contribute to the maximum of their ability by compensating based on their job performance and meeting licensing requirements. Inability to obtain proper licenses, within a year of being eligible to test, will result in a decrease of potential merit increases.

In order to drive a Utility vehicle, individuals in this position must remain insurable by the carrier providing automotive insurance coverage to the Springdale Water and Sewer Commission.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.97 - $34.48 per hour

Benefits:

- Dental insurance

- Flexible spending account

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- Retirement plan

- Vision insurance

Schedule:

- 12 hour shift

Work Location: In person