WRP Operator-in-Training or I

Coachella Valley Water District•Palm Desert, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is for a Wastewater Reclamation Plant Operator-in-Training or Operator I. The Operator-in-Training (OIT) role involves assisting with the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant under immediate supervision, serving as an entry-level position where trainees must learn and demonstrate competency in basic plant operations. The Operator I role, under immediate or general supervision, performs semi-skilled and skilled work in operating and maintaining the wastewater reclamation plant facility, equipment, and processes. This includes regulating flows, performing repairs, conducting basic laboratory tests, collecting samples, and other related duties.

Requirements

Equivalent to a High School Diploma.
Operator I: One (1) year of experience in the operation, repair, and maintenance of equipment such as pumps, motors, or other equipment similar to what is found in a water or wastewater agency.
Possession of a valid California Driver’s License, to be maintained throughout employment.
Knowledge of basic arithmetic.
Knowledge of principles and procedures of record-keeping and reporting.
Knowledge of District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
Knowledge of techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District staff.
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language to effectively perform the work.
Knowledge of modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Knowledge of operational characteristics, and the safe and proper use of, machinery, tools, equipment, and materials necessary to perform assigned duties.
Ability to learn the principles and practices of wastewater treatment plant operations.
Ability to understand operating principles of valves, pumps, and motors.
Ability to understand principles and methods of sample collection and analysis.
Ability to operate wastewater treatment plant equipment.
Ability to read and interpret gauges and other recording devices.
Ability to take wastewater and sludge samples.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Ability to work cooperatively with others.
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Ability to make accurate arithmetic calculations.
Ability to maintain accurate logs, records, and basic written records of work performed.
Ability to use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
Ability to effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Nice To Haves

OIT: Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant operator certification issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board, to be obtained within 24 months of appointment and to be maintained throughout employment.
Operator I: Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board, to be maintained throughout employment.

Responsibilities

Monitors the operation of wastewater reclamation plant pumps, valves, and other equipment.
Collects wastewater samples for laboratory tests.
Monitors instruments, records readings, calculates data, and maintains accurate logs, records, and charts.
Performs light maintenance and general cleaning of the plant facilities and equipment.
Removes grit, sludge and screenings from system and disposes of them.
Assists in changing chlorine tanks, checks for leaks and practices proper safety procedures.
Reads gauges, dials, and other instruments that record plant operations; locates malfunctions in electrical control circuits, terminals, and switches.
Observes variations in operating conditions; interprets meter and gauge readings and test results to determine processing requirements; makes necessary adjustments.
Computes plant flows; utilizes a calculator and accurate samplings of influent, effluent and mixed liquor.
Inspects, cleans and maintains lift stations; inspects pumps, valves, motors, filters, meters, and related plant equipment.