WATER PLANT OPERATOR-PRODUCTION-(3rd shift)

Operates and maintains 20 MGD conventional rapid sand filtration plant and 22 MGD continuous ultra-filtration membrane plant:

• Reads gauges and meters;  starts, stops and adjusts pumps and operates valves to maintain proper levels in the plant, reservoir and tanks;

• Inspects plant equipment and makes adjustments for proper operation;

• Performs laboratory testing to adjust chemical feed systems; 

• Makes entries into logs and maintains records.

• Maintains plant security on nights and weekends;

• Contacts Plant Director or on-call supervisor for after-hour emergencies or questions.

• Maintains, repairs and overhauls mechanical equipment associated with the water treatment and pumping processes. 

• Cleans sedimentation and sand filter basins.

• Performs membrane maintenance and repairs, such as sonic testing, pinning, valve repair.

• Inspects, cleans and maintains, booster stations, and other related facilities.

• Troubleshoots, repairs and installs mechanical equipment or parts, such as pumps, valves, piping, injectors.

• Changes chlorine tanks and assists in chemical deliveries.

• Assists with storage tank draining and filling as needed for inspections.

• Flushes hydrants as needed for water quality.

• Handles emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and provides information, while referring emergencies and complex inquiries to the appropriate personnel.

• Performs routine and “as needed” maintenance and cleaning of plant buildings.  

• Prepares and paints interior and exterior surfaces, pipes, and equipment.

• Performs grounds-keeping and landscaping duties, and Operates Class D vehicles.

• Operates and maintains a variety of hand/power tools and equipment related to job activities; performs minor tool repair.

• Loads, transports and unloads materials and equipment.

• Assures proper safety techniques and equipment are used when required; maintains a safe, clean and orderly work area. 

• Maintains adequate inventory of routine maintenance parts and supplies.

• Orders or purchases needed tools, parts or supplies from designated vendors.

• Performs minor carpentry or plumbing work or repair.

• Performs ice and snow removal activities.

• Attends safety and other training as required; acquires continuing education units to maintain WDNR Operator certification. 

• Performs other related duties as required.

• Graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent.

• Technical school courses in machinery maintenance and repair, chemistry, water or other subject matter related to this occupation are helpful but not required.

• Previous work experience in operating, maintaining and repairing plant equipment desired.

• Previous experience on 2nd/3rd shifts and with minimal supervision helpful but not required.

• Must obtain the following certification during probation and shall be required to maintain such certification during employment in this position. 

  • Grade T Waterworks Operator Certification from WDNR to include Subclass S (Surface Water) and Subclass D (Distribution).  (After 1 year as certified Operator, advancement to Grade 1 Waterworks Operator Certification.)

Required Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:

• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with this occupation.

• Knowledge of the tools, equipment, materials, methods and procedures related to plant operations and maintenance.

• Skill and ability to use various hand and power tools and operate equipment associated with this occupation.

• Ability to observe plant processes and differentiate when changes or potential problems are occurring.

• Ability to take accurate measurements and readings of various plant processes, and document such information.

• Ability to handle emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and provide accurate information, while referring emergencies and complex inquiries to the appropriate personnel.

• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

• Ability to establish effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

• Ability to work with no or minimal supervision.

• Ability to reasonably handle necessary stress associated with this occupation.

• Job tasks may involve the complex operation of gasoline, electric, or diesel powered machinery or shop equipment requiring the manipulation of multiple controls, fine adjustments or both; or the sustained operation of associated equipment.

• Job tasks may involve the regular, and at times sustained, performance of heavier physical tasks such as walking over rough or uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, working in confined spaces, and lifting or carrying moderately heavy (20-50 pound) items.

• Job tasks may involve the continuous operation of hand tools, calling for full coordination of sensory and manipulative ability in order to achieve full production to acceptable standards.

• Job tasks may involve entering confined spaces.

• Job tasks may involve ascending and descending stairs or ladders.

• Ability to work under conditions that require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as inclement weather, temperature variations, odors, toxic agents, noise, vibrations, wetness, machinery, electrical currents, traffic hazards and/or dust.  Such exposure may cause some discomfort or a risk of injury.

• Visual, color, depth, sound, odor perception and discrimination

• Possession of valid driver’s license and a good driving record.

• Must be willing and able to work a rotating or a fixed shift without supervision during certain periods.

• Must be able to work the 14-day Plant Operator rotation.

• Training requires shadowing of plant operators during 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Shift to become familiar with operations (two weeks per shift). 

Individuals who wish to be considered for this recruitment must complete an online application through GovernmentJobs.com.   To begin the application process, please visit the City of Kenosha website at www.kenosha.org and click on the “Job Available” link.   All elements of the application, including supplemental questions must be completed and submitted in order for the application to be considered complete.  It is important that your application reflect all of your relevant education and experience.  Please note that including your resume does not take the place of completing the “Work Experience” section of the application.  Applications may be rejected if no work experience is listed, or if other required application fields are missing or incomplete    Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter, diplomas, certifications, or other documentation to their online application before submission which further illustrates their qualifications and interest in this employment opportunity.
 
An applicant's education, training and experience will then be analyzed to determine if he/she meets the minimum requirements. Written, oral, proficiency and/or other examinations may be required to establish eligibility.  Such exams will be scheduled as needed.  
 
Appointment and rate of pay will be made in accordance with the Kenosha Water Utility Employee Handbook and the City of Kenosha Civil Service Ordinance & Rules/Regulations. The Kenosha Water Utility reserves the right to further evaluate only those applicants who best meet the needs of the Utility.