Wastewater Operator

City of Gig Harbor•Gig Harbor, WA

5d•$35 - $64•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Gig Harbor is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Wastewater Operator. Applicants may be considered for appointment at any level within the Wastewater Operator series, from Operator in Training through Operator III, depending on certifications, experience, and qualifications. We are looking for candidates who take pride in serving the community and want to play a meaningful role in protecting public health, preserving environmental quality, and supporting essential services that keep the city safe, sustainable, and thriving for residents and future generations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Three (3) years of experience in general maintenance and/or trades related work (for Operator in Training).
At least 6 months of full-time work related to Wastewater Treatment or Collections preferred (for Operator in Training).
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Basic knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and procedures as related to wastewater collections and treatment preferred (for Operator in Training).
Associate or bachelor’s degree in wastewater technology, environmental sciences, or related field preferred (for Operator 1-3).
Two (2) years of experience in general maintenance and trades related work (for Operator 1-3).
One (1) year of full-time work related to wastewater treatment or collections (for Operator 1-3).
A valid Washington State driver’s license and two years of driving experience.
First Aid/CPR card or the ability to obtain within six months of date of hire.
Forklift certification or the ability to obtain within six months of date of hire.
Ability to obtain a Washington State Department of Ecology Group 1 Certification within twelve months of date of hire (for Operator in Training).
Washington State Department of Ecology Group 1 Certification at time of hire (for Operator 1).
Washington State Department of Ecology Group 2 Certification at time of hire (for Operator 2).
Washington State Department of Ecology Group 3 Certification at time of hire (for Operator 3).
A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city’s motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.
Ability to pass pre-employment medical exam and maintain a level of physical fitness necessary to perform the essential job functions.

Nice To Haves

Commercial Class A or B Washington State Driver’s License (CDL) with a Tanker endorsement preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintains collection system which consists of approximately 57 miles of sewer main and 17 lift stations of various sizes.
Collects samples from the incoming wastewater, recirculated sludge, effluent, aeration basins, anoxic basins, and digester to determine such things as biochemical oxygen demand; temperatures, pH, suspended and dissolved solids; food to micro-organism rates; recirculation rates, chlorine residual; etc.
Records equipment and instrument data on record sheets and computer.
Inspects and maintains plant and system equipment which includes assuring proper operation of wastewater lift stations by checking operation of pumps, valves, and ventilators; cleaning and servicing equipment; and checking telemetry alarm system which detects malfunctioning equipment.
Operates, maintains, repairs, and replaces primary and secondary treatment equipment including, but not limited to, tanks, pumps of various types, generators, UV disinfection, odor control equipment, process water equipment, instrumentation and controls, odor control scrubbers, centrifuge, gravity drum thickener, blowers, de-gritting equipment, clarifiers, and machinery.
Participates in the operations and maintenance of lift stations, collection system and related equipment.
Operates and maintains sewer line video inspection equipment.
Uses a computer or tablet to effectively utilize the city’s asset management and maintenance program (Cartegraph).
Operates various hand and power tools.
Operates a variety of heavy equipment such as dump trucks, forklifts, backhoe, excavator, small crane truck, portable pumps, generators, diesel pumps, pressure washers and related equipment.
Operates a variety of specialized equipment including but not limited to chain saws, weed eaters, lawn mowers, paint sprayers, pumps, cutoff saw, concrete saws, jackhammers, shoring equipment, compactors, fall protection, gas detectors, line locators, metal detectors, welders, cutting torches, amp probes, multi-meters, voltage testers, and closed-circuit television (CCTV).
Stores, accounts for, and safely handles hazardous chemicals per Safety Data Sheets and safety practices.
Repairs and maintains lift station pump and generator, and other general plant and lift station housekeeping and maintenance duties.
Purchases equipment, parts, and supplies necessary for operation and maintenance of facilities.
Operates the city’s eductor truck for line jetting and cleaning.
Participates in required continuing education and training programs related to wastewater treatment.
Collects data from lab bench sheets and biosolids production sheets, then enters in database.
Performs and analyzes wastewater samples.
Participates in the Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) program to ensure that fast food service establishments are adhering to the city’s municipal code pertaining to grease.
May support in leading part-time, temporary or intern personnel within the division.
Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.