Waste Water Treatment Plant- Trainee Operator

City of Lebanon • Lebanon, TN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Performs routine tasks and learns to operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities, including plant processes, equipment, and instruments. Assists in sampling, testing, and recording data; performs manual labor and maintenance tasks; and learns to monitor and control wastewater treatment processes. Works under close supervision, following established procedures and guidelines. Participates in training and development programs to become a certified wastewater treatment plant operator.

Requirements

• Basic principles of wastewater treatment process
• Familiarity with industry regulations and standards.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures.
• Understanding of plant equipment and instrumentation.
• Basic chemistry and biology concepts.
• Conceptual understanding of hydraulics, mechanics, electrical, I&C, process control, laboratory, and microbiology.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate equipment.
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Basic laboratory skills and testing procedures.
• Data collection and recording skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and procedures.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with software applications.
• Ability to learn and adapt quickly.
• Physical ability to perform manual labor and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in a variety of weather conditions.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain records.
• Effective communication skills: Verbal and written.
• Follows and provides clear instructions.
• Basic reading skills: Understands technical documents & instructions.
• Interprets safety data sheets and operating manuals.
• Basic writing skills: Records data and test results accurately.
• Completes routine reports & logs.
• Comprehensive skills: Understands industry-specific terminology and concepts.
• Follows safety protocols and procedures.
• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic math operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Decimals, fractions, and percentages.
• Measurement conversions: Length, weight, and volume units (e.g., gallons to pounds)
• Algebraic concepts: Basic formulas and equations.
• Solving for unknown variables.
• Data analysis: Interpret charts, graphs, and tables.
• Basic statistical concepts (e.g., mean, median, range)
• Calculations: Flow rates, dosing rates, and chemical concentrations.
• Wastewater treatment process calculations.
• A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D) is required.
• None or minimal experience required (entry level position)
• None required for hire. (Must obtain Grade 1 certification within 18 months of hire)
• Must attend all training courses necessary for Grade 1 certification.
• A valid driver’s License with clear driving record required.
• If candidate does not have a valid Tennessee driver's license, they must acquire one in 30 days of hire.
• Employees in this position must be available to work rotating shifts, including 24/7 assignments.
• This position is subject to on-call and call-back requirements, which may include work outside of normal business hours, including days, nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• The employee must be available to participate in a rotating on-call schedule and may be required to report to duty or remain onsite during emergency operations.
• The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• The employee is required to walk; sit; use tools; operate controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and listen, observe, or smell.
• The employee must frequently lift, move, push, pull or carry up to 50 pounds.
• May occasionally push, pull or move 75 to 100 pounds, with assistance.
• Must be able to use tools such as breaker bar, pipe wrench, hand truck.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must undergo required physical examination and complete vaccinations.

Nice To Haves

• CDL license is preferred.
• Reside in Wilson County or in one of the surrounding counties that border Wilson County, including Cannon, Davidson, DeKalb, Rutherford, Smith, Sumner, or Trousdale Counties.

Responsibilities

• Learn and assist in operating wastewater treatment processes and equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and repair tasks.
• Collects and records wastewater samples.
• Conducts basic laboratory tests and analysis.
• Assists in monitoring and controlling the treatment process.
• Performs manual labor, housekeeping, and grounds keeping tasks.
• Participates in training and development programs.
• Works under close supervision, following established procedures and guidelines.
• Assists in documenting plant operations, maintenance, and testing results.
• Develops knowledge of wastewater treatment principles, processes, and regulations.
• Operates skid steer and telehandlers.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this role.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or trainer.

Benefits

• 14 paid holidays
• 18 PTO days the first year (23 PTO days after the first year and this increases every 5 years after)
• health, dental, vision, life and disability
• generous pension/401k hybrid retirement package through Tennessee Consolidated Retirement Systems (TCRS)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED