Plant Operator

An employee in this class performs a variety of operational, testing, and maintenance duties designed to produce safe treatment of potable water. Work includes monitoring the water plant's operation through observation, mechanical readings and the results of standard chemical and biological tests and to make necessary adjustments in the process as conditions or test results dictate. Other duties include performing tests and assisting with maintenance, as well as maintaining records. Work also includes reading water meters throughout the Town, doing service turn-ons and turn-offs, flushing water lines, and answering customer questions and complaints. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Crew Leader and is evaluated through observation, periodic conferences, reviewing records for adherence to operational standards, instructions and safety practices.The statements below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. The position description is subject to change by the Town as the needs of the Town and requirements of the position change.
 

• Observes the operation of water pumps, electric motors and chemical feed machines; reads various charts, graphs, gauges, and meters; computes from readings and records the water volume pumped; collects lab samples and performs standard analyses and tests as required; adds chemicals as needed.
• Drives a route to read and record water usage at water meters; tests meters and replaces as needed.
• Fulfills work orders to turn on and turn off service.
• Answers public questions, concerns and complaints; documents resolution of problems.
• Flushes water lines.
• Performs general preventive and scheduled maintenance; assists on major maintenance and repairs including cleaning, and painting; performs grounds maintenance such as mowing.
• Serves in an on-call capacity on a rotating basis.
• Conducts daily checks of water plant.

To perform this position successfully, an individual(s) must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
 
KNOWLEDGE:

• Working knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirement of water plants.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and

permitting requirements.

• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions.
• Some knowledge of standard laboratory test and procedures used in a water plant.
• Some knowledge of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to water plant operations.

 
SKILLS:

• Uses time effectively to accomplish tasks. 
• Exercises sound, independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
• Operation of light equipment. 
• Must be able to operate a Town vehicle safely.
• Complete work orders using correct English (i.e. grammar, punctuation, spelling and clarity).

 
ABILITIES:

• Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine

proper remedial measures.

• Ability to conduct routine laboratory test.
• Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read meters, charts, and technical manuals and drawings accurately and to maintain records of operations.
• General knowledge of the tools, materials and equipment used in the installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of utility lines.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and superiors and with the public.

CONTACT WITH OTHERS: To perform this position successfully, an individual(s) may be required to have contact/communications with individuals internally and externally on a regular basis. 
 

Town Employees	Daily. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.
Town Consultants	Seldom. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.
Elected Officials	Seldom. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.
General  Public/Citizens	Occasional. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.
Community Organizations	Seldom. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.
Vendors/Contractors /Regulatory Agencies	Occasional. Verbal exchange over telephone and in person. Written exchange through correspondence such as e-mail, letters, and memorandum.