Water/Wastewater Operator

Does a career in an everchanging and advancing field interest you? Are you interested in learning about water and wastewater? Does the idea of working at a modernized and automated plant intrigue you? How about working in an environment that is family oriented and community driven?  If you said yes to any of these questions, you should consider coming to Culpeper County, with our advanced treatment plants, amazing staff, training, and opportunities for advancement.

Responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater plants in accordance with State and Federal water quality regulations. 

Pay is based on licensure level attained by the employee.  Duties and responsibilities vary slightly depending upon licensure level.
 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Engages in the safe and compliant operation, and monitoring, of the County’s water, wastewater treatment facilities, and distribution and collection systems
• Follows standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements for operating water and wastewater treatment systems
• Collects regulatory samples and maintains plant records and audit documentation
• Maintains appropriate inventories of chemicals, operator supplies and personal protective equipment
• Performs a variety of preventive maintenance tasks associated with operating water and sewer treatment systems and associated collection and distribution systems
• Reads water meters, conducts utility inspections, and supervises contractors
• Inspects construction of water and sewer utilities to ensure they are built to County standards
• Reading blueprints and document inspections

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Performs general and preventive maintenance, supervise inmate or community service work force, when needed
• Class 1 and Class 2 Wastewater Operators may be assigned duties and responsibilities of the Water/Wastewater Lab Manager, when needed

Education and Experience:
Education equivalent to a high school diploma.

Special Qualifications:
Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history background check. Requires Class 1-4 Wastewater and Water Operators licenses within specified time frame. Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver’s license, Virginia Class B commercial driver’s license preferred. OSHA Industrial including lock out tag out procedures, confined space entry.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of the principles, laws, procedures and regulations of water and wastewater treatment
• Knowledge of the biological, chemical, and physical processes of water and wastewater treatment
• Knowledge and ability to operate, monitor, and maintain water and wastewater plant machinery and equipment
• Ability to evaluate operational process performance and to select appropriate actions
• Knowledge of appropriate operational responses to emergency situations
• Ability to write accurate reports and maintain accurate records
• Skilled in using a computer and various software applications
• Ability to perform heavy physical work
• Ability to follow safety procedures
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as heavy. Must be physically able to operate water/wastewater equipment. Must be able to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 25 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. May occasionally involve heavier objects and materials (up to 125 pounds). May be required to work afterhours, on weekends, or on call. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate depths. Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate odors.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Essential functions are regularly performed in at the various water/wastewater facilities. Tasks may risk exposure to chemicals, odors, machinery, wetness, dust, fumes, dirt, vibrations, electricity, driving and confined spaces.
 
Disclaimer
The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job.
 
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
 
General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in the adherence to the policies.