Water Plant Operator

Purpose of Job
Performs skilled and technical work in the operation and maintenance of the Water Treatment Plant. 
Essential Job Duties

1. Maintains proper flow and quality of water by ensuring water pumps, motors, filters, and chemical feeders are operating properly. 
2. Conducts bacteriological and chemical tests required by state and federal regulations.
3. Administers chemicals to treat, disinfect, deodorize and clarify water.
4. Conducts plant inspections, performs equipment adjustments, and notifies supervisor of needed repairs. 
5. Calculates usage of water and chemicals. 
6. Retrieves water samples and conducts tests.
7. Reads gauges and transmits information to supervisor.

Other Job Duties

1. Performs routine plant maintenance such as picking up debris around the plant, painting, cleaning out basins, etc.
2. Performs custodial functions such as sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, etc.
3. Performs other related work as required.

Primary Job Challenges

1. Maintaining a working knowledge of all facets of water treatment.
2. Staying proficient with daily operations and procedures of the plant.
3. Demonstrating the ability to adjust to various problems or situations that may arise.

Equipment Operated

1. Laboratory and testing equipment, mechanical tools, pumps, motors, fire hoses, and various hand tools. 
2. Standard office equipment such as copier, telephone, personal computer, and associated software.
3. Automobile and/or truck with radio transmitting and receiving capabilities. 
4. Light and heavy equipment such as a tow motor (forklift), tractor mower, etc. 

Key Competencies Required

1. Knowledge of the equipment and materials used in water treatment and pumping operations.
2. Knowledge of mechanical equipment and machinery.
3. Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions.
4. Knowledge of the city’s policies and procedures.
5. Ability to learn the processes involved in water purification, including routine chemical tests.
6. Ability to inspect machinery and equipment to detect flaws and defects in operation.
7. Ability to accurately read simple meters and charts.
8. Ability to adjust pumps, chemical feeders, and other plant equipment.
9. Ability to diagnose and alleviate pumping, treatment, storage, and water condition problems.
10. Ability to understand and follow moderately complex written and oral instructions.
11. Ability to write legibly and make accurate arithmetic calculations.
12. Ability to operate and maintain the required vehicular equipment.
13. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees and the general public.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

1. Employee will work both indoors and outdoors and will sit, stand, walk, and lift light and heavy objects (more than 25 pounds).
2. Employee may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, loud noises, fumes, chemicals, and other toxic substances.
3. Employee may also be exposed to potentially hazardous situations.

Qualifications
Education and Experience: Graduation from a standard high school or GED, preferably supplemented by courses in chemistry; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to the required knowledge and abilities. 
Required Certifications/Licenses:   Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Tennessee.  Must pass a drug screen and physical examination based on the essential functions of the job given by the city’s designated physician.
Must obtain a Grade IV Water Treatment Certification within five (5) years of employment.