JOB SUMMARY

The Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator (SWTPO) is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a complex treatment plant, the storage and delivery of the finished product in adequate quantity. Ensure that the finished product complies with all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) rules and regulations.              

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES      

Performs and records water quality checks which includes total and free chlorine residuals, fluoride residuals, alkalinity and hardness, mono chloramine residual and free ammonia; checks temperatures; completes turbidity verifications. 
Monitors SCADA system to ensure adequate levels throughout the distribution system; maintains clear wells, ground storage tanks, and towers; and turns on and off pumps as needed.
Calculates and implements dosage of chemicals needed for proper treatment of raw water using mathematical formulas and computer programs; checks pumps (drawdowns) to ensure required amount of chemical is being used.
Collects bacteriological, total organic compounds, and alkalinity samples; analyzes, prepares, and preserves samples for transport to lab or mailing to testing laboratory.
Inspects and tests specific gravity, color, and odor of chemicals received for water treatment.
Performs inspection of plant grounds to check basins, filters, pumps, and motors; completes daily backwash of filters.
Prepares and maintains reports and logs; inputs process control data; reports the performance of entire system to immediate supervisor; assists with training new operators or operator trainees as assigned.
Responds to questions and concerns from customers City departments, and outside agencies; coordinates tasks with other city departments to ensure customer complaints are addressed; generates and inputs work orders after receiving customer complaints; inputs emergency line locates when needed. 
Performs general custodial duties around the plant to include cleaning control room, lab, restrooms, plant floors, and equipment.
Performs related duties and required or assigned.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Ability to sit, stand and transport self from site to site, walking over slippery, loose, uneven and sloped surfaces. Ability to drive a vehicle to and from various work sites. Employee will work in extreme temperatures, bending, kneeling, squatting, twisting and climbing in order to perform duties. Employee will frequently lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Any weight that exceeds 50 pounds will be a two man lift per department policy. Employee will be exposed to potential mechanical, chemical, and electrical hazards. Employee will be exposed to and work in dirt, dust, noise, fumes, odors, water and mud. Must be able to see and distinguish different hues of discoloration in water. Fine manipulation with hands and fingers to prepare samples and to operate and calibrate analyzers. Must be able to hear and communicate verbally, both face to face and over radio and telephone. Employee will work with inert and highly toxic chemicals.                

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines 

High school diploma or GED equivalent AND two (2) years of experience in surface water treatment operations; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. 

  Knowledge of: 

Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances. 
Records maintenance and retention practices and procedures.
Work safety policies, procedures, and practices.
Sample collection and handling procedures.
Water processing procedures.
Skill in use and maintenance of treatment plant equipment. 
Thorough knowledge of the “Rules and Regulations for Public Water Systems” and the “Drinking Water Standards”. 
TCEQ standards and regulations.

Skill in:

Organizing work and setting priorities to meet deadlines. 
Reading and accurately interpreting work orders, gauges, meters chemical reports, and technical manuals. 
Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff and outside agencies. 
Following safe work practices including the proper use of personal protective equipment. 
Analyzing lab data to determine necessary process changes.
Typing and entering data with speed and accuracy.
Maintaining accurate records. 
Preparing clear and concise reports. 
Experienced in handling/using chlorine and other caustic, toxic, and corrosive supplies and chemicals.  
Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.  
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 

Must possess a Grade C Surface Water Treatment Operator certification.
Must possess a valid Texas Class C driver’s license

Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs

Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator