Operator in Training - Wastewater

American Water•Honolulu, HI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a great opportunity to learn and grow within American Water. The Operator-in-Training (OIT) performs semi-skilled to skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of a two wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), three pump stations and two collection systems. Assists the lead operator who serves as the Direct Responsible Charge (DRC) and one other plant operator with operation, preventative maintenance and repair duties associated with an aerated lagoon and an extended aeration process and associated pump stations and collection systems. Assists DRC with process controls and performs plant operational duties including monitoring, sampling, troubleshooting and optimizing treatment performance.

Requirements

A basic understanding of mechanics and hydraulics.
Knowledge of the operation, methods, practices, techniques and maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment facilities and pump stations.
Knowledge of safety practices in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment used in industrial facilities.
Knowledge of procedures, materials, tools, equipment and safety hazards and precautions common to assigned area of responsibility.
Ability to deal with and communicate effectively and courteously with internal and external customers as well as the general public.
Ability to work independently and determine what equipment, tools and materials will be needed to complete assigned projects.
Ability to safely use both hand tools and power tools.
Ability to exercise independent judgment in operational duties, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, the DRC, management personnel, and vendors.
Ability to maintain open communications with the DRC on plant performance issues and make recommendations for corrective action if necessary.
Ability to read and interpret gauges, recording devices and general plant instrumentation.
Ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date maintenance records.
Ability to write legibly and make simple mathematical calculations accurately.
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand, bend, stoop, shovel, sweep, walk and climb status.
Ability to safely operate company motor vehicles and equipment.
Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions including summer heat.
Ability to use computer/mobile devices tools to analyze and report plant data
The OIT is expected to obtain his grade I certification within two years from the date of hire and obtain higher levels of certification as allowed by experience and training.
High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
Basic computer skills required

Nice To Haves

Hawaii Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I license preferred or the ability to obtain within 2 years of hire is required.

Responsibilities

Completes tasks assigned by the DRC in timely and professional manner.
The OIT will complete process control tests, perform sampling duties and basic laboratory analyses such as: pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and suspended solids.
The OIT will monitor and maintain the following treatment processes: screening, biological treatment, and filtration as well as an injection well used for effluent disposal.
The OIT will also operate and maintain all supporting equipment including pumps, compressors, chemical feeders and blowers.
The OIT will assist the DRC and staff with the ordering of chemicals and materials, data collection, record keeping, grounds keeping and herbicide spraying.
The OIT will assist the DRC with the unscheduled repairs of plant and pump station equipment.
The OIT is expected to attend all safety training in order to learn, and vigorously apply, safe work practices at all times.
The OIT must be willing to work a schedule that will include one “week-end” day and able to work a flexible schedule, when necessary, to substitute for absent operators or lab technicians.
Periodically the OIT must serve as the “on-call” operator and respond to after hour emergencies such as sewage spills, power failures, chemical leakages, inclement weather, etc.