Wastewater Facilities Operator I/II/III/IV

First review of applications January 21, 2025. Open until filled.

Salary:

HOURLY

$28.12 – $46.98

MONTHLY

$4,874.42 – $8,143.17

ANNUALLY

$58,493.00 – $97,718.00

Description:

Under general supervision, to perform a variety of skilled technical duties in the operation of the City’s wastewater treatment plant, lift station, and percolation ponds.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Wastewater Facilities Operator I:

This is the entry level in the class series. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the higher level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Since this class is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. 

Wastewater Facilities Operator II/III/IV:

These are the journey levels in the class series. Positions at these levels are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at these levels receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from lower levels by meeting the minimum requirements, successful performance, budget availability, and management recommendation. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the position level.

 

Examples of Duties:

Examples of duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Regularly monitors plant functions through reading supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), gauges, graphs, meters, and control panels; and by performing and evaluating chemical analysis;
• Operates all wastewater treatment processes;
• Makes daily rounds of the plant performing a variety of duties pertaining to wastewater treatment and plant maintenance;
• Observes variations in operating conditions by interpreting meter, gauge, computer and graph readings and test results to determine processing requirements;
• Coordinates plant operations activities in a variety of areas;
• Assists wastewater personnel with complex problems and emergencies;
• Informs supervisors and co-workers of present and potential problems and hazards;
• Cleans tanks, screens, filters, drying beds, pipes, clarifiers, pumps, and ponds;
• Operates heavy equipment in removing and cleaning sludge from drying beds for final disposal;
• Calculates flow rates and calibrates meters and instruments;
• Maintains daily log book and round sheets;
• Enters equipment readings and test results into hourly, daily, and monthly reports;
• Performs preventive maintenance including cleaning and lubricating plant equipment;
• Performs custodial and grounds maintenance duties including sweeping, painting, carpentry, plumbing, and general housekeeping;
• Monitors lift station operation;
• Monitors flare (i.e., landfill gas system and digester gas);
• Properly collects, documents, and delivers process control and compliance samples, recycled water bacteriological samples, and bio-solids to laboratory for anlaysis; and
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

 Experience

Wastewater Facilities Operator I:  

• Six months of experience in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.

Wastewater Facilities Operator II:   

• Two years of experience in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.

Wastewater Facilities Operator III:  

• Three years of experience in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.

Wastewater Facilities Operator IV: 

• Four years of experience in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.

Education

• Equivalent to a high school diploma.
• College level coursework in chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, and/or wastewater technology is preferred.

License or Certification:

• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license at the time of appointment.

Wastewater Facilities Operator I: 

• Possession of an Operator-in-Training (OIT) Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board; 
• Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board within 12 months of appointment.

Wastewater Facilities Operator II:  

• Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board.

Wastewater Facilities Operator III:  

• Possession of a Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board. 

Wastewater Facilities Operator IV: 

• Possession of a Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board. 

Special Requirements:

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment: 

Ability to work in a standard office environment; Ability to work outside; Ability to travel to different sites and locations; Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs.; exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, outdoors, chemicals, explosive materials, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards. Ability to respond to emergency call-out situations and perform standby duty for emergency response after hours.