Junior Plant Operator (Water Production)

City of Sacramento•Sacramento, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position in the Water Division, assigned to work at both surface water treatment plants. The role supports the successful operation of two T5 rated, multi-barrier conventional surface water treatment plants with complex chemical treatment systems, providing safe and reliable drinking water to over 500,000 people. Responsibilities may include supporting dewatering, groundwater, surface water, and/or reservoir teams. The position typically works a 5-5 schedule on day shift but may rotate to a 5-4 schedule and be assigned to day, swing, or graveyard shifts based on operational needs. The ideal candidate is ambitious, curious, and motivated to learn all aspects of water treatment and facility maintenance, with a strong emphasis on safety, effective working relationships, and communication.

Requirements

Six months experience in performing operations in the water, wastewater or swimming pool field; or performing preventive maintenance-type work on pumps, motors, or related mechanical/electrical equipment.
Completion of a course of instruction related to water, wastewater plant, or swimming pool (Aquatic Facility Operator or Certified Pool and Spa Operator) operations; or mechanical or electrical technology; assignments in drinking water treatment require one 90 contact hour (9 semester units) course in Water/Wastewater Treatment Operations.
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License is required at the time of appointment.
Ability to obtain a valid California Class A or B Driver License with endorsements as required or Class C Driver License with Hazmat endorsement during the probationary period is required for some assignments.
Assignments in drinking water treatment require a T-1 or higher certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board at the time of appointment.
For assignments in wastewater treatment, possession of a T-1 or higher certificate is desirable.
For assignments in aquatics, an Aquatic Facility Operator or Certified Pool and Spa Operator certification is required within 6 months of appointment.
Basic principles of drinking water, wastewater, strom drainage, or swimming pool water treatment.
Principles, operation and maintenance requirements of pumps, motors, compressors, generators, valves and internal combustion engines.
Basic principles and methods used generally in the mechanical and electrical fields.
Basic principles of mathematics, algebra, and chemistry.
Safe and efficient work practices as they are related to mechanical and electrical equipment.
Operating principles of power-driven equipment such as forklifts, electric hoists, and trucks.
Ability to perform a variety of physically demanding tasks on a regular basis.
Ability to work any shift (e.g., swing, relief, night), weekends, holidays, and standby that is mandatory for some assignments.
Ability to perform mathematical and algebraic calculations, interpret basic word problems related to water, wastewater treatment, or swimming pool water, and keep accurate records.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Ability to understand basic water and wastewater treatment processes and analytical tests including interpreting gauges, meters, and recorders.
Ability to understand the location, function, operation, preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting procedures for pumps, motors, chlorinators, alum, polymer and fluoride feeders, lime slakers and other associated equipment and machinery.
Ability to understand basic personal computer programs including inter/intranet access, word processing, spreadsheets and databases.
Ability to understand basic Supervising Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system operation for some assignments.
Ability to understand basic Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) operations for some assignments.
Ability to read, write, and speak English at a level necessary for satisfactory job performance.
Ability to establish and effective working relationships with others.

Nice To Haves

For assignments in wastewater treatment, possession of a T-1 or higher certificate is desirable.

Responsibilities

Perform skilled and semi-skilled work in the operation of the City's drinking water treatment plants, wells, reservoirs, distribution system, or swimming pools and fountains.
Assist in monitoring and directing the pumping of storm water, wastewater, and potable water.
Perform routine inspection, lubrication, servicing, maintenance, and cleaning of equipment and facilities.
Assist in operating plant equipment and performing routine water quality laboratory tests.
Make scheduled and preventive maintenance checks on facility equipment such as pumps, motors, and air compressors.
Perform routine servicing and adjustments to equipment and paint equipment.
Lubricate equipment, including bearings and valves, and change oil as required.
Load and unload chlorine cylinders or containers, alum, lime, and other materials used in the treatment of potable and nonpotable water using an electric hoist, forklift, crane, and other heavy equipment, and make necessary connections for the transfer of chemicals.
Clean tanks, sedimentation basins, chemical feeders, reservoirs, filter basins, lime slakers, and sumps.
Assist in operating treatment plant or pool equipment by reading meters and gauges, operating valves, pumps, and other controls to adjust water flow, pressure, and chemical dosages.
Make calculations and record readings.
Assist in collecting water samples and performing routine water quality laboratory tests.
Assist in performing various filter tests as part of the filter surveillance program.
Perform janitorial work and grounds maintenance.
Perform preventive maintenance duties including painting equipment and cleaning trash screens and filters.
Operate equipment such as engine driven pumps, generators, compressors, hoists, forklifts, cranes and other heavy equipment.
Work in confined spaces, on temporary scaffolding, and on high structures; using a self-contained breathing apparatus and/or Level I Hazmat suits.