JOB DESCRIPTION
Position: Water Plant Operator Class III
Reports To: Water Plant Superintendent/Assistant Water Plant Supt.
Department Utilities
Work Location Water Treatment Plant
Position Summary
The Water Plant Operator III is responsible for the operations associated with the City’s Water Treatment Bacteria Lab. This includes the constant application of principles and practices associated with Ohio EPA Microbiological Laboratory certification. This position will also assist with repair/maintenance duties and perform some relief operations when shift operators are using accrued leave. As a public employee this position is responsible for the providing reliable delivery of utility services. This position requires consistent and prompt response to emergency repairs or the collection and analysis of samples that occur outside of normal work days and shifts.
Job Dimensions
The Water Treatment Plant has a 10 million gallon per day treatment capacity. Currently it treats approximately 3.5 million gallons per day. The plant is a modern, computer assisted, lime-soda softening facility that utilizes both ground and surface water. With such a complex source water supply the Water Plant Operator III is a key person of the treatment plant staff. The plant is staffed by eight employees and is a 24-hour a day, seven day per week facility.
The Water Treatment Plant Operator III is responsible for the collection and analysis of approximately 3,000 water samples per year. These samples are collected from, but not limited to source water intakes, locations within the treatment process and also within the water distribution system.
The incumbent will respond to customer complaints and any main breaks that may occur during the year. Though not routine, in emergency situations the bacteria lab also may perform contract work for the Shelby County Health Department, small public water systems and mobile home parks. Microbiological Certification as required by Ohio EPA must be maintained at all times.
In addition to the responsibilities of performing lab tests, the Water Treatment Plant Operator III will assist with routine maintenance and repair activities of the facility. The incumbent will assist with relief operations of the treatment facility during a shift operator’s use of accrued leave, or as directed by the Superintendent and/or the Assistant Superintendent. Wet Chemistry (Operational) Certification as required by Ohio EPA must be maintained at all times.
Nature and Scope
· Applying thorough knowledge of the principals, procedures and techniques of chemistry, biology and microbiology as it pertains to water treatment and/or water pollution control.
· Ability to apply a broad knowledge of principles, practices and methods of water treatment equipment repair, including both electrical and plumbing. This includes the proper use of hand and electrical tools, including electrical meters used for diagnostic purposes.
· Using lab equipment such as microscopes, autoclaves, water baths, electronic balance and vacuum filtration, in performing analysis.
· Maintain adequate supplies for the bacteria and chemical labs, along with the preparation of reagents used in both labs.
· Maintaining a valid laboratory certification (both Wet Chemistry (Operational) and Microbiological) as defined by the Ohio EPA. This includes participation in announced and unannounced surveys.
· Assist with plant operations to help fill vacation, personal time and sick leave shifts of plant operators.
· Assist with maintenance functions of the facility at the direction of the Superintendent and/or Assistant Superintendent.
· Effectively use a PC, software and field equipment used by the department in the performance of duties and assignments
· Consulting with other city departments, public officials and private citizens.
· Maintaining complete and accurate records of test results and equipment operations.
· Performing custodial functions in the upkeep of the facility.
· Respond to any main breaks for the collection and analysis of water samples to ensure public safety of drinking water.
Major Challenges
· Respond to calls for service during non-scheduled work hours and with minimal or no supervision
· Learn and assist in work that requires developing specialized skills through experience
· Address questions or comments from the public in emergency situations
· Ability to effectively resolve customer conflict
· Providing an uninterrupted supply of clean, safe water to the city.
· Contending with a constantly changing raw water source, i.e. floods, drought, ice, bacterial and chemical, taste, and odor.
· Maintaining operations during planned and emergency repairs.
· Operating treatment plant during times when shift operators are absent.
· Maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations and meeting all reporting requirements.
· Providing accurate, reliable and consistent water analyses.
· Utilizing quality control procedures.
· Assist with plant maintenance activities.
Other Work Requirements
· Collecting samples in adverse weather conditions at times.
· Demonstrated ability to read and understand manuals, regulations, technical documents, and supervisory instructions.
· Working with and around hazardous treatment chemicals.
· Demonstrated ability to operate, adjust and make minor repairs to lab equipment.
· Physically able to drive to various locations and collecting water samples both during and after hours.
· Responding after hours to make emergency repairs or to assist in correcting treatment upsets.
· Ability to work nights, weekends when performing relief operations.
Qualifications/Requirements
· This position requires two (2) years of experience in laboratory work involving chemical and biological testing and analyses. At least one (1) year of MMO-Mug experience is preferred. A two (2) year degree in chemistry, biology or other water related fields is preferred.
· An Ohio Class III Water Supply License is preferred, but the ability to obtain a valid Ohio Class III, Water Supply certificate within twenty-four months after appointment will be considered.
· This position requires the incumbent’s ability to obtain a “Valid” Wet Chemistry (Operational) and Microbiological Laboratory Certification by the Ohio EPA within twelve (12) months of appointment.
· A valid Driver’s License and a good driving record are required. Both must be maintained throughout employment.
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· Must be a resident of Shelby County or adjacent county or become a resident within one year from the date of hire. Maintain residency in Shelby County or adjacent county while employed with the City of Sidney is required.