Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I/II/III

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I Hourly salary: $36.9379 – $44.8981

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator lI Hourly salary: $40.6314 – $49.3879

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator llI Hourly salary: $44.6945 – $54.3266

 DEFINITION

 

Under immediate supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I), general supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II), or direction (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III), inspects, operates, and maintains the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant facility and processes; treats wastewater to protect the public health and environment before discharge; performs corrective and repair work on plant systems; performs general maintenance work at plant facilities; and performs related work as required.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

 

Receives immediate supervision (WWTP Operator I), general supervision (WWTP Operator II), or direction (WWTP Operator III) from the WWTP Operations Supervisor. Some assigned positions exercise technical and functional direction over, and provide training to, less experienced staff.

 

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

WWTP Operator I: This is the first-level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform inspection, operation, and maintenance functions for the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant facility. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Within the scope and authority of their mandated certification, positions at this level perform some of the duties required of the positions at the WWTP Operator II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and 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. 

 

WWTP Operator II: This is the second-level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the WWTP Operator I level by the performance of higher-level operating duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative within the scope and authority of mandated certification. Positions at this level 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.  

 

WWTP Operator III: This is the full working journey level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series responsible for independently taking actions necessary for the operation and maintenance on an assigned Grade IV plant, consistent with the mandated certifications required to perform such duties, and which are dependent on the State designated grade level of the assigned plant. Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in this classification rely on experience and judgment to perform assigned duties. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements.

 

Positions in the WWTP Operator class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the WWTP Operator II level are normally filled by advancement from the WWTP Operator I level; progression to the WWTP Operator II level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the WWTP Operator II level.

 

In addition, positions at the WWTP Operator III level are normally filled by advancement from the WWTP Operator II level, also contingent upon factors i-iv outlined above.

 

Examples of Duties

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB 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 qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

 

Positions at the WWTP Operator I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

 

• Operates and adjusts controls on wastewater treatment facility equipment and machinery such as valves, pumps, chemical feed pumps, electric motors, filters, programmable control systems, and other plant equipment to ensure all equipment is running at optimal performance; checks and calibrates chemical feed equipment and analyzers.
• Visually inspects all plant processes and equipment on a daily basis; troubleshoots and resolves causes of plant upsets, plant equipment problems, or when permit limitations are exceeded.
• Operates the City’s wastewater treatment system using the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer control system; corrects routine and complex system faults and alarms; monitors trends using SCADA regarding flows, pump and valve operation, chemical residual and supply levels, whether equipment is running effectively, and if chemicals are being utilized properly.
• Safely handles, transports, stores, monitors, and releases chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite, sodium bisulfite, polymer, alum, ferric chloride, sodium hydroxide, and aqueous and anhydrous ammonia into the wastewater treatment system; maintains accurate records of chemicals used; submits orders for purchase of chemicals.
• Maintains operating logs and process control and lift station data.
• Operates and maintains and regulates flows through the wetland and pond systems; checks gate operations.
• Operates a variety of construction and maintenance equipment such as power tools, hand tools, and vehicles including trucks, tractors, backhoes, loaders, forklifts, and other related vehicles and equipment.
• Collects wastewater samples; performs laboratory tests and interprets results for plant control purposes.
• Performs preventive maintenance and repair work on plant equipment such as changing oils and greases, and cleaning equipment.
• Instructs assigned personnel in plant operations.
• Maintains air compressors, auxiliary engines, and equipment at lift stations, drainage pump stations, drainage ponds, and ditches.
• Receives work orders electronically; prepares, maintains, and inputs detailed logs, records, and reports of maintenance and repair activities via mobile and stationary digital devices into automated software systems.
• Acts as shift supervisor, when so designated by management, and if it is within the scope and authority of the mandated certification held by the employee.
• Performs routine facility maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, and hosing down equipment or work areas throughout the plant.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

 

Typical Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Positions at the WWTP Operator I level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.

 

Knowledge of:

 

• Principles, practices, methods, and techniques used in the installation, repair, operation, inspection, and maintenance of wastewater treatment systems and equipment including pumps and electric motors.
• Tools, equipment, and methods used in maintaining stationary power equipment, pumping systems, and electrical systems.
• Wastewater treatment processes and the tests used to check the effectiveness of such processes.
• Safe storage, handling, and usage of chemicals and compounds used in the course of employment.
• Principles and methods of wastewater treatment, including basic chemistry and hydraulics as applied to wastewater treatment.
• SCADA telemetry components and computer software operation.
• Federal, State, and local statutes, codes, and regulations governing wastewater treatment systems including the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit and related waste discharge requirements.
• Mathematical formulas used in wastewater treatment.
• Purposes and uses of tools and equipment used in the overhaul, repair, adjustment, and modification of plant equipment.
• Chemical and biological tests used in monitoring wastewater treatment plant processes, chemical reactions, and laboratory operations.
• Operation and maintenance requirements of a variety of light and heavy power-driven equipment.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols. 
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

 

Ability to:

 

• Inspect, troubleshoot, and adjust equipment and treatment processes at a wastewater treatment plant.
• Read and interpret gauges and recording devices reflecting plant operations.
• Perform routine to complex mechanical maintenance work and repairs, maintenance work, and modification to equipment and facilities used in a wastewater treatment plant.
• Troubleshoot and respond to operations and maintenance problems.
• Operate a variety of equipment, vehicles, power tools, and hand tools; assess problem equipment.
• Identify safety hazards and observe all safety protocols.
• Interpret work orders, and explain jobs to other employees.
• Calculate and adjust chemical doses.
• Participate in the department stand-by program as assigned.
• Operate SCADA controls; correct faults and alarms.
• Clean and de-rag sludge pumps.
• Accurately calculate mathematical formulas used in wastewater treatment.
• Collect wastewater samples for testing. 
• Respond to chemical leaks.
• Perform technical procedures in plant operation.
• Perform chemical tank changes while using appropriate safety equipment.
• Learn and perform standard laboratory tests in plant monitoring.
• Maintain records accurately and neatly.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. 

 

Education and Experience:

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

Education:

• WWTP Operator I/II/III: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented by courses in wastewater treatment, chemistry, or biology.

Experience:

• WWTP Operator I: One (1) year of experience in maintenance and operation of mechanical equipment, preferably types associated with wastewater or water system facilities.
• WWTP Operator II: Two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in wastewater maintenance and operations, or one (1) year of experience equivalent to a WWTP Operator I.
• WWTP Operator III: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in wastewater maintenance and operations, or one (1) year of experience equivalent to a WWTP Operator II.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months from date of appointment, a valid Forklift Operator certification, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months from date of appointment, a valid CPR and First Aid certification, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months from date of appointment, a valid HAZWOPER certification, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Other certifications as required by OSHA/CalOSHA to perform assigned duties (such as confined space, etc.)
• Possession of a valid California Class “A” Driver’s License is desirable.
• Possession of a valid California Class “B” Driver’s License, is desirable. 1

  

• WWTP Operator I: Possession of a valid Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board, to be maintained throughout employment.
• WWTP Operator II: Possession of a valid Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board, to be maintained throughout employment.
• WWTP Operator III: Possession of a valid Grade III or higher Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board, to be maintained throughout employment.

Supplemental Information

Physical Demands

 

Must possess mobility to work in standard wastewater treatment plant and related facilities; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform medium to heavy physical work, to work in confining spaces, around machines and to climb and descend ladders, and to operate varied hand and power tools and equipment, and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; color vision to read gauges and identify appurtenances; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone or radio. The job involves frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate above-mentioned tools and equipment. Positions in this classification bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging weights of up to 50 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.

Environmental Elements

 

Employees work partially indoors and partially outdoors and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances, odors, and fumes. Employees may need to wear protective clothing when using chemicals. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

May be required to be on-call/stand-by and to work various shifts or emergencies on evenings, weekends, and holidays.

ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Supplemental questions are required.

1 Class B may be required in in the future if operational needs change at which time it will become a requirement applicable to new WWTP Operators hired after need is determined.