Wastewater Plant Operator - In Training (WPO-IT)

Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District • Cuyahoga Heights, OH

2d

About The Position

The Wastewater Plant Operator - In Training trains to acquire general knowledge of wastewater plant operations through on-the-job training, classroom instruction, training manuals and books, standard operating procedures, and best practices. Under general supervision, the employee performs diversified duties and skilled work involving physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes and pump stations, along with related work as required.

The role operates and monitors treatment units and equipment, manually and through control systems, and may oversee more than one unit during a shift. The operator records operating data, maintains written or digital logs, inspects equipment, interprets gauges and test results, adjusts process controls, and helps maintain operating conditions and objectives. Duties also include starting and shutting down equipment, submitting maintenance requests, assisting with repairs, conducting routine tests and equipment maintenance, performing lockout/tagout, and maintaining clean and safe work areas.

The position requires completion of a Sewer District-provided training program and attainment of specified Ohio EPA wastewater operator certifications within set timeframes. Operators must be able to work rotating 12-hour shifts in a 24-hour, seven-day operation and may need to cover unscheduled hours. The role may be authorized for hybrid work; eligibility is discussed during the interview process. Physical demands include indoor and outdoor work, lifting up to 50 pounds, and potential exposure to loud noise, extreme weather, heat, vibration, hazards, restricted spaces, and wet or humid conditions while wearing required personal protective equipment.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• For entry into the Operator Training Program at the first milestone, no prior experience is required.
• To qualify for entry into the Operator Training Program at the third milestone, possess an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate and 24 months of wastewater treatment plant experience.
• Complete 6,000 tracked hours of relevant and required Sewer District-provided training within 36 months of the effective start date; candidates entering with an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate or higher must complete 2,000 tracked hours within 12 months.
• Obtain an Ohio EPA Class I Wastewater Operator Certificate within 24 months of the effective start date.
• Obtain an Ohio EPA Class II Wastewater Operator Certificate within 36 months of the effective start date.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and a driving record meeting the Sewer District’s acceptable guidelines.
• Successfully complete proficiency tests in basic reading, writing, math, and computer skills.
• Make sound judgments and decisions based on data interpretation and known unit goals.
• Use a variety of hand and power tools.
• Be reliable and punctual in reporting to work as scheduled.
• Be able to work rotating 12-hour shifts for 24-hour, seven-day-per-week operations and unscheduled hours to cover vacant shifts, emergencies, or unusual situations.
• Meet the physical demands of the position, including lifting up to 50 pounds and performing activities such as standing, sitting, kneeling, handling, feeling, hearing, walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, reaching, fingering, and talking.
• Be able to spend up to 60% of work time outdoors and work in conditions that may include extreme weather, atmospheric conditions, vibration, extreme heat, hazards, restricted work environments, and wet or humid conditions while wearing required personal protective equipment.
• Have credentials, including diplomas and licenses, on file before bidding closes.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment facilities and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate treatment units by controlling and monitoring equipment and processes manually and through control systems; operate or monitor multiple units during a shift.
• Record operating data and maintain written and/or digital operating logbooks and records.
• Inspect equipment for proper operation and determine its operating efficiency.
• Monitor, interpret, and record gauges, charts, and meter readings; initiate changes based on operating conditions, process variables, calculations, test results, and data interpretation.
• Adjust controls to maintain proper operating conditions and meet specified operational objectives.
• Start up and shut down equipment while following safety and communication procedures.
• Write maintenance work requests and assist with repairs; use applicable computer programs to create work requests for issues identified during a shift.
• Operate physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes.
• Perform routine physical, chemical, biological, and laboratory tests and record results.
• Perform routine equipment lubrication, adjustment, and inspection, and report results.
• Perform lockout/tagout of plant equipment, including isolation of pressurized water, steam, and chemical systems and low-voltage equipment under 600 volts.
• Perform basic housekeeping, including cleaning and maintaining equipment and surrounding work areas.
• Observe safe work practices.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature as required.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Retirement planning options through the Ohio Public Employee Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Plans.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Free parking at facilities.
• Corporate discounts.
• Health and Wellness Program promoting life/work balance.

What This Job Offers

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