Utilities Plant Operator Trainee

Pasco County•New Port Richey & Wesley Chapel, FL

11h

About The Position

The Utilities Plant Operator Trainee learns the fundamentals of drinking water treatment plant operation. After instruction, orientation, and certification, the employee is expected to perform the routine duties of a licensed plant operator. The position involves skilled work in operating drinking water supply and distribution systems to provide high-quality water treatment in compliance with local rules and regulations. The trainee works with licensed operational staff, performs and assists with plant maintenance, monitors facility equipment and machinery, and helps keep department equipment, vehicles, and test equipment in safe and efficient operating condition. The role also involves maintaining operational and maintenance records, evaluating water operational data, responding to customer inquiries, and following applicable safety procedures. Employees may be required to assist with emergency response and perform duties outside their normal scope, location, or schedule during emergencies.

Requirements

High school graduation or an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Valid Florida driver's license.
Must pass examinations to receive a Class C water license within 18 months of hire.
Must complete educational requirements for a Florida Water Plant Operator Class C Certificate of Completion within one year of position assignment.
Ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds and push or pull heavy objects; handling devices or assistance from another team member may be used for excessively heavy objects.
Ability to bend, climb, squat, and walk frequently.
Ability to communicate effectively using verbal, written, and visual communication.
Ability and willingness to work overtime and rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to respond to emergency situations.
Ability to perform assigned duties with considerable independence and work in a team environment.
Ability to communicate effectively with others and prepare and maintain accurate, detailed operations and maintenance records and reports.
Ability to use a computer and related software.
Knowledge of written and oral computer communication.

Nice To Haves

Applicants who have passed the water certification exam and/or completed or started the required certification course will be given preference.

Responsibilities

Respond to emergencies such as floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural or human-caused crises to support public health and safety.
Prepare and maintain accurate, detailed operations reports and maintenance records.
Collect, organize, and evaluate water operational data and develop conclusions for operational adjustments.
Inspect or oversee inspections of facility equipment and machinery to determine whether systems are operating properly.
Work with licensed operational staff to make routine and non-routine control adjustments in accordance with operating instructions, Florida Administrative Code, and prescribed standards.
Notify appropriate staff about non-routine adjustment needs or malfunctioning equipment.
Perform and assist with plant maintenance work as required.
Assist with operation and calibration, and maintain department equipment, vehicles, and test equipment.
Learn Florida Administrative Code and applicable regulatory requirements.
Research and respond to information requests in accordance with department procedures.
Implement OSHA lockout/tagout procedures to safely isolate equipment and remove it from service.
Assist with customer inquiries and complaints, including identifying and resolving water quality issues or routing inquiries to the appropriate person.
Accept chemical delivery documentation, verify delivered quantities by signing tickets, and submit tickets for payment.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow safety data sheet recommendations when handling toxic, corrosive, and flammable materials.
Perform related work as directed.
Work before, during, or after emergencies and, when needed, perform duties outside the normal scope of the position, location, and work schedule.