Treatment Plant Operator

*This position may be filled as a Treatment Plant Operator I, II, or III based on qualifications & experience.

Treatment Plant Operator I starts at $7,656.13 monthly

Treatment Plant Operator II starts at $8,878.13 monthly

Treatment Plant Operator III starts at $9,798.53 monthly

 

TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR III

DEFINITION 

Under general supervision, serves as shift operator and performs a variety of highly skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities; monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems; utilizes the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems; operates and monitors pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities; inspects, tests and maintains motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; leads, provides support to subordinates, and performs other related work as required. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS  

Senior Treatment Plant Operator is the advanced journey-level class in the Treatment Plant Operator series. This class is distinguished from Treatment Plant Operator I in that incumbents in this class perform highly complex duties that include serving as a shift operator. Incumbents in this class are expected to work with substantial independence, applying an advanced level of discretion and judgment in resolving issues. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED  

Receives general supervision from the Operations and Maintenance Superintendent. Provides functional and technical support to subordinate employees.  

 

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) 

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:  

• Leads and performs a variety of highly skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities; serves as a shift operator by overseeing plant operations during an assigned shift. 
• Leads, monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems including performing chemical pump drawdowns, adjusting flows, setting, adjusting, and backwashing filters, and calculating and setting optimal chemical dosage levels by adjusting chemical feeders; utilizes telemetry system, filtration equipment, plant flow and aqueduct water blends, reservoirs, and/or storage tanks to determine system demands.  
• Leads and coordinates the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems including water treatment plants, reservoirs, wells, water storage tanks, pump stations, and related facilities; monitors flow and pressure; responds to alarms.  
• Leads and participates in the operation and monitoring of pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities; starts, adjusts, and shuts down plant operations, and/or adjusts well field and distribution system flows to meet production and storage requirements and water quality standards.  
• Leads and participates in the inspection, testing and maintenance of motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; inspects vaults, pipelines, and related facilities for leaks; reports unusual conditions and/or the need for maintenance and repair of equipment, buildings, and grounds; notifies purveyors of water flow changes.  
• Coordinates the inventory of chemicals and other treatment supplies; orders chemicals according to standard procedures; receives chemicals and supplies delivered during assigned shift and assists in their safe unloading and storage; handles hazardous materials in accordance with safety rules and procedures.  
• Coordinates and participates in water sampling and performs standardized laboratory testing, such as chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, temperature, taste, and odor; calculates chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feeders as necessary to maintain water quality.  
• Coordinates the logging of plant operations, test results, unusual operating conditions, maintenance work performed, and related information; maintains accurate logs and records of work performed and materials and equipment used; prepares operations reports.  
• Coordinates repairs or inspects contract repair work associated with repairs of pipelines, pumps, tanks, reservoirs, and related equipment.  
• Reads and interprets meters, gauges, charts, and instruments; performs preventive maintenance on pumps, motors, and other equipment; checks and adds oil; greases bearings.  
• Responds to alarms, equipment failures, and emergencies, taking necessary actions to maintain a reliable water supply.  
• Leads, trains, and provides work direction less experienced operators. 
• Follows safety procedures and regulations.  
• Maintains public facilities, storage sites, and other work areas in a clean and orderly condition, including securing equipment at the close of the workday.  
• Operates a computer and assigned software. 
• Performs other related duties as required. 

 

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS   

This position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and/or stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination in making repairs. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in making mechanical and system repairs. Incumbents are required to turn valves. The need to lift, drag, and push materials, supplies, and equipment weighing 50 pounds also is required. 

Work is primarily performed outdoors in varied weather conditions including heat, rain and cold, and with potential exposure to road traffic, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, and occasional confined spaces. 

Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations. 

 

QUALIFICATIONS (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) 

 

Education and/or Experience 

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Senior Treatment Plant Operator. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess: 

• A high school diploma or equivalent GED. 
• Five (5) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and/or repair of water treatment plants and water distribution systems, including at least three (3) years at a level comparable to a Treatment Plant Operator II. 

 

Licenses and Certifications 

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver’s license. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
• Possess and maintain a valid Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. 
• Possess and maintain a valid Grade III Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by California State Water Resources Control Board. 

 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES (The following are a representative sample of the KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)  

 

Knowledge/Skills of: 

• Advanced principles, practices, tools, equipment, and materials required to maintain, operate, and control water treatment systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, water distribution systems, water hydraulics, valves, pipe materials and water service components.  
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.  
• Advanced water treatment and distribution techniques and technologies, including SCADA system operations. 
• Advanced principles, practices, and techniques of handling and processing water samples; routine laboratory procedures.   
• Advanced operational and maintenance practices of electrical motors, pumps, and circuitry.  
• Preventive maintenance applicable to treatment plant facilities and equipment.  
• Occupational hazards and safety equipment and practices related to the work, including the handling of hazardous chemicals and confined space entry.  
• Advanced mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic principles.  
• Computer software related to the work such as SCADA and other telemetry systems.  
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.  
• Mathematics related to water treatment.  
• Safe driving practices.  
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy. 

 

Ability to: 

• Interpret and apply complex policies, procedures, laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to assigned programs and functions.  
• Read, interpret, and apply complex technical information from manuals, drawings, and specifications.  
• Modify, maintain, and repair complex water treatment and water distribution systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, and equipment.  
• Analyze complex treatment processes and act when necessary.  
• Perform laboratory tests, interpret results, and adjust plant accordingly.  
• Troubleshoot complex maintenance problems and determine materials and supplies required for repair.  
• Make accurate arithmetic calculations such as flow rates, chemical dosages, chlorine demands, area circumference, and volume.  
• Safely and effectively use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment, power tools, and equipment required for the work.  
• Lead, train and provide work direction to less experienced operators. 
• Maintain accurate logs, reports, and basic written records of work performed.  
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical time deadlines, and follow up on assignments.  
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.  
• Operates a computer and assigned software. 
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and judgment within well-defined policy and procedural and legal guidelines.  
• Communicate clearly and concisely.  
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, outside agencies, and the public.  

 

TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR II

DEFINITION 

Under general supervision, performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities; monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems; utilizes the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems; operates and monitors pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities; inspects, tests and maintains motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; and performs other related duties as required. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS  

Treatment Plant Operator II is the journey-level class in the Treatment Plant Operator series. This class is distinguished from Treatment Plant Operator I in that incumbents in this class perform more complex duties, are expected to work with greater independence, and apply moderate discretion and judgment in resolving issues. This class is distinguished from the Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator in that incumbents in the latter class serve as lead workers by providing functional direction to subordinate Water System Operator employees and crews and also perform more complex treatment operations and maintenance duties. 

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED  

Receives general supervision from the Operations and Maintenance Superintendent. Incumbent does not regularly lead or supervise other employees.  

 

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) 

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:  

• Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities. 
• Monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems including performing chemical pump drawdowns, adjusting flows, setting, adjusting, and backwashing filters, and calculating and setting optimal chemical dosage levels by adjusting chemical feeders; utilizes telemetry system, filtration equipment, plant flow and aqueduct water blends, reservoirs, and/or storage tanks to determine system demands.  
• Utilizes Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems including water treatment plants, reservoirs, wells, water storage tanks, pump stations, and related facilities; monitors flow and pressure; responds to alarms.  
• Operates and monitors pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities; starts, adjusts, and shuts down plant operations, and/or adjusts well field and distribution system flows to meet production and storage requirements and water quality standards.  
• Inspects, tests, and maintains motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; inspects vaults, pipelines, and related facilities for leaks; reports unusual conditions and/or the need for maintenance and repair of equipment, buildings, and grounds; notifies purveyors of water flow changes.  
• Takes inventory of chemicals and other treatment supplies; orders chemicals according to standard procedures; receives chemicals and supplies delivered during assigned shift and assists in their safe unloading and storage; handles hazardous materials in accordance with safety rules and procedures.  
• Takes water samples and performs standardized laboratory testing, such as chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, temperature, taste, and odor; calculates chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feeders as necessary to maintain water quality.  
• Logs plant operations, test results, unusual operating conditions, maintenance work performed, and related information; maintains accurate logs and records of work performed and materials and equipment used; prepares operations reports.  
• Makes repairs or inspects contract repair work associated with repairs of pipelines, pumps, tanks, reservoirs, and related equipment.  
• Reads and interprets meters, gauges, charts, and instruments; performs preventive maintenance on pumps, motors, and other equipment; checks and adds oil; greases bearings.  
• Responds to alarms, equipment failures, and emergencies, taking necessary actions to maintain a reliable water supply.  
• Assists with training less experienced operators on all aspects of work.  
• Follows safety procedures and regulations.  
• Maintains public facilities, storage sites, and other work areas in a clean and orderly condition, including securing equipment at the close of the workday.  
• Operation of a computer and assigned software related to SCADA and other telemetry systems.  
• Performs other related duties as required. 

 

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS   

This position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and/or stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination in making repairs. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in making mechanical and system repairs. Incumbents are required to turn valves. The need to lift, drag, and push materials, supplies, and equipment weighing 50 pounds also is required. 

Work is primarily performed outdoors in varied weather conditions including heat, rain and cold, and with potential exposure to road traffic, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, and occasional confined spaces. 

Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations. 

 

QUALIFICATIONS (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) 

 

Education and/or Experience 

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Treatment Plant Operator II. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess: 

• A high school diploma or equivalent GED. 
• Two (2) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and/or repair of water treatment plants and water distribution systems at a level comparable to Treatment Plant Operator I with the agency. 

 

Licenses and Certifications 

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver’s license. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
• Possess and maintain a valid Grade III Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. 
• Possess and maintain a valid Grade III Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by California State Water Resources Control Board. 

 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES (The following are a representative sample of the KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)  

 

Knowledge/Skills of: 

• Principles, practices, tools, equipment, and materials required to maintain, operate, and control water treatment systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, water distribution systems, water hydraulics, valves, pipe materials and water service components.  
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.  
• Current water treatment and distribution techniques and technologies, including SCADA system operations. 
• Principles, practices, and techniques of handling and processing water samples; routine laboratory procedures.   
• Operational and maintenance practices of electrical motors, pumps, and circuitry.  
• Preventive maintenance applicable to treatment plant facilities and equipment.  
• Occupational hazards and safety equipment and practices related to the work, including the handling of hazardous chemicals and confined space entry.  
• Basic mechanical, electrical and hydraulic principles. 
• Operation of a computer and assigned software related to SCADA and other telemetry systems.  
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.  
• Mathematics related to water treatment.  
• Safe driving practices.  
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy. 

 

Ability to: 

• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.  
• Interpret and apply the policies, procedures, laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to assigned programs and functions.  
• Read, interpret, and apply technical information from manuals, drawings, and specifications.  
• Modify, maintain, and repair water treatment and water distribution systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, and equipment.  
• Analyze treatment processes and act when necessary.  
• Perform laboratory tests, interpret results, and adjust plant accordingly.  
• Troubleshoot maintenance problems and determine materials and supplies required for repair.  
• Make accurate arithmetic calculations such as flow rates, chemical dosages, chlorine demands, area circumference, and volume.  
• Safely and effectively use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment, power tools, and equipment required for the work.  
• Maintain accurate logs, reports, and basic written records of work performed.  
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical time deadlines, and follow up on assignments.  
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.  
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and judgment within well-defined policy and procedural and legal guidelines.  
• Operate a computer and assigned software. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely.  
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, outside agencies, and the public.  

 

TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR I

DEFINITION 

Initially under immediate and then general supervision, learns and performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities; monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems; utilizes the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems; operates and monitors pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities; inspects, tests and maintains motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; and performs other related duties as required. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS  

Treatment Plant Operator I is the entry-level class in the Treatment Plant Operator series. This class is distinguished from Treatment Plant Operator II in that incumbents in this class perform the more routine duties assigned to the series with less independence while acquiring the knowledge and experience needed to perform the full range of journey level work. 

  

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED  

Receives general supervision from the Operations & Maintenance Superintendent. Incumbent does not lead or supervise other employees.  

 

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) 

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:  

• Learns and performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled duties associated with the installation, repair, operation and maintenance of the agency’s water treatment plants and distribution systems and facilities. 
• Monitors and controls the operation of water treatment plants and distribution systems, including performing chemical pump drawdowns, adjusting flows, setting, adjusting, and backwashing filters, and calculating and setting optimal chemical dosage levels by adjusting chemical feeders; utilizes telemetry system, filtration equipment, plant flow and aqueduct water blends, reservoirs, and/or storage tanks to determine system demands.  
• Utilizes Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure efficient operation of the water treatment and distribution systems, including water treatment plants, reservoirs, wells, water storage tanks, pump stations, and related facilities; monitors flow and pressure; responds to alarms.  
• Operates and monitors pumps, valves, and related equipment to regulate the flow of water through a treatment plant and related facilities, and the water distribution system; starts, adjusts, and shuts down plant operations, and/or adjusts well field and distribution system flows to meet production and storage requirements and water quality standards.  
• Inspects, and tests motors, pumps, valves, chemical feeders, and related equipment; inspects vaults, pipelines, and related facilities for leaks; reports unusual conditions and/or the need for maintenance and repair of equipment, buildings, and grounds; notifies purveyors of water flow changes.  
• Takes inventory of chemicals and other treatment supplies; orders chemicals according to standard procedures; receives chemicals and supplies delivered during assigned shift and assists in their safe unloading and storage; handles hazardous materials in accordance with safety rules and procedures.  
• Takes water samples and performs standardized laboratory testing, such as chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, temperature, taste, and odor; calculates chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feeders as necessary to maintain water quality.  
• Logs plant operations, test results, unusual operating conditions, maintenance work performed, and related information; maintains accurate logs and records of work performed and materials and equipment used; prepares operations reports.  
• Reads and interprets meters, gauges, charts, and instruments; performs preventive maintenance on pumps, motors, and other equipment; checks and adds oil; greases bearings.  
• Responds to alarms, equipment failures, and emergencies, taking necessary actions to maintain a reliable water supply.  
• Makes minor repairs or inspects contract repair work associated with repairs of pipelines, pumps, tanks, reservoirs, and related equipment.  
• Follows safety procedures and regulations.  
• Maintains public facilities, storage sites, and other work areas in a clean and orderly condition, including securing equipment at the close of the workday.  
• Operates a computer and assigned software. 
• Performs other related duties as required. 

 

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS   

This position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and/or stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination in making repairs. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in making mechanical and system repairs. Incumbents are required to turn valves. The need to lift, drag, and push materials, supplies, and equipment weighing 50 pounds also is required. 

Work is primarily performed outdoors in varied weather conditions including heat, rain and cold, and with potential exposure to road traffic, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, and occasional confined spaces. 

Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations. 

 

QUALIFICATIONS (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) 

 

Education and/or Experience 

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Treatment Plant Operator I. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess: 

• A high school diploma, GED or equivalent. 
• No experience required. 

 

Licenses and Certifications 

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver’s license. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
• Possess and maintain a valid Grade II Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. 
• Must obtain a Grade III Water Treatment Operator Certificate and a Grade III Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by California State Water Resources Control Board within 18 months of hire. 

 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES (The following are a representative sample of the KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)  

 

Knowledge/Skills of: 

• Basic principles, practices, tools, equipment, and materials required to maintain, operate, and control water treatment systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, water distribution systems, water hydraulics, valves, pipe materials and water service components.  
• Operational and maintenance practices of electrical motors, pumps, and circuitry.  
• Routine preventive maintenance applicable to treatment plant facilities and equipment.  
• Occupational hazards and safety equipment and practices related to the work, including the handling of hazardous chemicals and confined space entry.  
• Basic mechanical, electrical and hydraulic principles.  
• Computer software related to the work such as SCADA and other telemetry systems.  
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.  
• Mathematics related to water treatment.  
• Safe driving rules and practices.  
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy. 

 

Ability to: 

• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.  
• Read and understand the policies, procedures, laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to assigned programs and functions.  
• Read, interpret, and apply technical information from manuals, drawings, and specifications.  
• Modify, maintain, and repair water treatment and water distribution systems, reservoirs, and related infrastructure, facilities, and equipment.  
• Analyze treatment processes and act when necessary.  
• Perform routine laboratory tests, interpret results, and adjust plant accordingly.  
• Troubleshoot maintenance problems and determine materials and supplies required for repair.  
• Make accurate arithmetic calculations such as flow rates, chemical dosages, chlorine demands, area circumference, and volume.  
• Safely and effectively use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment, power tools, and equipment required for the work.  
• Maintain accurate logs, reports, and basic written records of work performed.  
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical time deadlines, and follow up on assignments.  
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.  
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and judgment within well-defined policy and procedural and legal guidelines.  
• Operate a computer and assigned software. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely.  
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, outside agencies, and the public.