Facility Operator

Essential Utilities, Inc.•Gastonia, NC

About The Position

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, is hiring for a Facility Operator Trainee. Under the direction of the Field Supervisor, this role performs activities supporting water production facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, lift and booster stations, distribution systems, and wastewater collection systems. The role includes maintaining and operating equipment and systems, performing routine water-quality analysis, adjusting chemical treatment and facility operations to meet applicable standards, completing customer service work orders, and documenting work in accordance with department procedures and applicable laws. The position has a career progression path from Facility Operator Trainee to Facility Operator I, II, and III. The trainee must obtain either a C Well or Grade I wastewater license within 18 months of employment. Higher levels require progressively advanced water and wastewater licenses. Work may involve travel to work sites and exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, wet or humid conditions, mechanical and electrical hazards, gas, fumes, dust, mists, and poor ventilation. The role requires lifting and carrying up to 75 pounds, obtaining a CDL Class C permit with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire, and availability for on-call nights and weekends to support a 24-hour, seven-day operation.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
No previous experience required.
Valid U.S. Driver’s License.
Obtain either a C Well or Grade I wastewater license within 18 months of employment.
Obtain a CDL Class C permit with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire.
Ability to read, understand, and accurately follow written and verbal operating instructions.
Mathematical ability to calculate ratios, dosages, and volumes used in water and wastewater treatment operations.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate in writing.
Familiarity with and understanding of the need to prevent wastewater pollution of area waters.
Ability to understand and maintain plant processes through computer-controlled equipment.
Ability to work effectively as a team member in a multitasking environment.
Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
Availability for on-call work at night and on weekends to support a 24-hour, seven-day operation.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with computers and tablets and basic operation of database, spreadsheet, and word-processing programs.

Responsibilities

Maintain equipment at assigned water production facilities and booster stations.
Operate and maintain distribution systems, including mains, valves, hydrants, and service lines.
Maintain equipment at wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
Operate and maintain sewer collection systems, including collection mains and pump stations.
Troubleshoot and repair service piping and related equipment.
Perform routine water-quality analysis according to established processes and procedures.
Make operational adjustments to comply with state and federal water-quality standards.
Adjust chemical treatment to meet water-quality standards and calculate ratios and dosages.
Complete customer service work orders, maintain system documentation, and close work orders according to department policies and procedures.
Perform tasks safely and professionally in accordance with company policies and applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and guidelines.
Assist with other tasks or projects as assigned.