OIT/Plant Operator I, II

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

*We have two openings to fill*

Positions available as Operator In Training, Plant Operator I or Plant Operator II based on qualifications and experience.

Operator In Training $34.98-$42.52

Plant Operator I $40.49-$49.22

Plant Operator II $46.88-$56.98

To apply for this position please visit the link below:

Career Opportunities | Sorted by Job Title ascending | Careers at Palmdale Water District (governmentjobs.com)

 

JOB SUMMARY

To perform a variety of duties related to the continuous operation and maintenance of the Leslie O. Carter water treatment plant and the distribution system.

 

Distinguishing Characteristics

Operator In Training (OIT) – This is the entry level in the Plant Operator series. Candidates in this level have obtained Water Treatment Operator T-2 and Water Distribution Operator D-2 Certifications; but do not have sufficient Plant Operator experience. The goal for these candidates is to be instructed and overseen by a Plant Operator 1 or higher and obtain the necessary experience to qualify for T3 and D3 Certifications. (T3 and D3 Certifications are obtained by passing the exams and submitting documentation that they met the required experience). The OIT level is distinguished from other Plant Operator levels by their duties. The OIT duties are less than the duties of Plant Operator Levels 1, 2 and 3. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks and progress to general supervision as procedures and processes in the assigned areas of responsibility are learned and competencies are demonstrated. Positions at this level are flexibly staffed to meet PWD’s functional and operational needs.

 

Plant Operator 1 

This is the intermediate level in the Plant Operator series. Positions in this level work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks. Plant Operator 1 level is distinguished from level 2 by performing less than the full range of duties assigned to level 2. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned, competencies are demonstrated and are flexibly staffed.

 

Plant Operator 2

This is the journey level in the Plant Operator series. Employees at this level are expected to have good working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of the WTP and Distribution system. Plant Operator 2 is distinguished from level 1 by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise. Positions in this level are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Plant Operator 1 level. Employees at this level provide guidance to the Plant Operator 1 and OIT level positions.

Under the direction of the Operation Manager plans, organizes and directs work on the control and operations of the WTP and Distribution system within the Operations Department. Performs a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility. Functions as Chief Plant Operator and fills in for the Operations Manager when assigned.

 

Supervision Received and Exercised

Plant Operator in Training (OIT): Receives Immediate supervision from the Operations Supervisor; may receive technical and functional supervision from a Plant Operator, II or I.

 

Plant Operator 1: Receives Immediate supervision from the Operations Supervisor; may receive technical and functional supervision from a Plant Operator II.

 

Plant Operator 2: Receives general supervision from the Operations Supervisor; may exercise technical and functional supervision over Plant Operator I.

Examples of Duties:

Examples Of Essential Duties

(Excluding the OIT), Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

• Operate Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer equipment to control and monitor flow of water treatment and processing of chemicals through the treatment plant and the water distribution system; operate control systems manually, as needed; monitor gauges and meters and record meter readings; maintain shift log.
• Observe variations in operating conditions; interpret computer, meter and gauge readings; check, standardize and calibrate instruments, analyzers and chemical feed pumps; start and stop electric driven pumps and motors to control and adjust flow and treatment processes.
• Collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analysis; determine chemical and physical characteristics of raw, settled, filtered, and finished water.
• Oversee sludge pond operation including monitoring of removal and transfer of sludge.
• Receive delivery of chemicals, materials, parts, and supplies, store in accordance with accepted safety standards and requirements.
• Inspect mechanical equipment for proper working order and prepare/submit work orders for mechanical and/or electrical maintenance attention; perform routine maintenance work as necessary.
• Participate in preparation of reports to various external regulatory agencies and District divisions and departments.
• Maintain records and documentation.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Operator In Training (OIT)

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water treatment plant and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Certified Water Treatment Operator Grade 2. 
• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water distribution system and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Certified Distribution Operator Grade 2.
• Operating characteristics of a water treatment plant facility including SCADA automated control system, and use of pumps, gauges, and chemical feeds.
• Principles, practices and regulations related to operating a water treatment plant and related facilities.
• Pertinent local, State, and Federal laws, rules and regulations.
• Safety practices and procedures related to the area of assignment.
• Computer use in record keeping and reporting methods.
• Arithmetic and computations including calculation of percentages, decimals, and fractions. 

 

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of skilled duties related to the continuous operation of a water treatment plant.
• Perform preventative maintenance of equipment and analyzers, general housekeeping, and groundskeeping. 
• On a continuous basis, know and understand operations, and observe safety rules; intermittently analyze problem processes and equipment; identify and locate equipment; interpret work orders; remember equipment location.
• Perform routine laboratory tests and analysis; determine chemical and physical characteristics of raw, settled, filtered, and finished water.
• Use a computer to maintain required records and documentation; respond to customer questions and complaints.
• Use various hand and power tools to perform basic mechanical maintenance.
• Work assigned shift schedules; be available for overtime.
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

 

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

 

Experience

Two years in any position that demonstrates teamwork and responsibility.

 

Training

Equivalent to high school diploma/GED. Some information science college work preferred.

 

License and Certificate

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
• Possession of a Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Possession of a Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board is desired.

Plant Operator 1

In addition to the qualifications for OIT:

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water treatment plant and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Water Treatment Operator Grade 3. 
• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water distributions system and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Water Distribution Operator Grade 3.

 

Ability to:

• Perform water treatment plant operations/activities as provided within the scope of a Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade 3 under general supervision as a Shift Operator.
• Work various shift schedules including days, nights, weekends, holidays, etc.

 

 

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

 

Experience

Three years of responsible experience in a water utility operating and performing maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment.

 

Training:

Equivalent to high school diploma/GED. Some information science college work preferred.

 

License and Certificate

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
• Possession of a Water Treatment Operator Grade 3 Certificate issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Possession of a Distribution Operator Grade 3 Certificate issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.

 

Plant Operator 2

 

In addition to the qualifications for OIT and Plant Operator 1:

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water treatment plant and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade 4. 
• Principles, practices, and regulations related to operating a water distributions system and related facilities in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Water Distribution Operator Grade 3.

 

Ability to:

• Perform water treatment plant operations/activities as provided within the scope of a Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade 3 as a Shift Operator under limited supervision at a journey level.

 

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

 

Experience

Three years of responsible journey experience performing duties similar to a Plant Operator 1 with the Palmdale Water District.

 

Training

Equivalent to high school diploma/GED. Some information science college work preferred.

 

 License and Certificate

• Possession of a valid California driver’s license.
• Possession of a Water Treatment Operator Grade 4 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board
• Possession of a Distribution Operator Grade 3 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.

Supplemental Information:

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT

Intermittently, walk stand, kneel, climb, twist and bend in the field; sit while studying or preparing reports and driving in vehicle or operating equipment; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling and fine manipulation; continuously write or use a keyboard to communicate; and lift or carry weight up to 50 pounds. Additionally, the incumbent in this position works outdoors in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold with extreme sun exposure. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

 

Approved: April 8, 2024