About The Position

This is a transfer opportunity, and first consideration is given to qualified transfer-eligible employees in the same classification. If no qualified transfer-eligible candidate is selected, external applicants will be considered. This recruitment may be used to establish a pool of qualified candidates to fill future Wastewater Treatment Operator/Senior Operator (West Point) Career Service vacancies within the Wastewater Treatment Division over the next 6 months. External candidates are eligible to be hired at the Operator level only. Senior operator level is obtained through an internal job progression process. The salary range listed above includes the Operator level ($41.2077-$52.2331/hour) and Senior Operator level ($47.5058-$57.4309/hour). Are you interested in advancing your career, being part of a team that is passionate about protecting the environment? If so, the role of Operator/Sr. Operator at South Plant WWTP is the position for you. As an Operator/Sr. Operator on C Crew you will play a critical part in WTD’s efforts in protecting the water quality and public health in the central Puget Sound region. As an Operator/Sr. Operator, you will work closely with operation supervisors in the planning, scheduling, and operating of critical infrastructure that will produce high quality treatment to wastewater collected from local sewer agencies. In this role you will gain valuable leadership skills leading a crew and will gain knowledge and exposure to the design and construction processes used for capital projects within the division. The skills and knowledge you gain from this position will help prepare you for future opportunities within WTD. As an Operator/Sr. Operator, you will help carry out and facilitate the day-to-day operational tasks at a level 4 regional wastewater treatment plant. Daily tasks of the shift crew include monitoring, troubleshooting, and controlling wastewater equipment to help prevent the spread of contagious diseases and protect the environment. The South Plant operations team is a highly collaborative team that prides itself on communications, dedicated staff, and solution-minded work. The O&M facilities are currently undergoing major capital improvements expected to continue over the next 10 years. The candidate will be a part of a flexible and dynamic team responsible for providing expertise and support to maintain continuous effective wastewater operations. King County's wastewater operations staff provides the expertise and dedication required to operate and maintain wastewater treatment and collection facilities to ensure protection of the environment and the health of all King County communities. King County, named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a diverse and vibrant community that represents cultures from around the world. Our True North is to create a welcoming community where everyone can thrive. We prioritize equity, racial and social justice, making it a foundational and daily expectation for all employees. As a Wastewater Treatment Operator/Senior Operator, you will actively apply these principles in all aspects of your work. Learn more about our commitment at http://www.kingcounty.gov/equity. Apply now for a rewarding career at the Wastewater Treatment Division of King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks (DNRP). Join our talented workforce in protecting and restoring the natural environment and promoting more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities. Enjoy training, comprehensive benefits, and growth opportunities.

Requirements

  • Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, including preliminary, primary, secondary, digestion, gas handling systems, sludge handling, plant-wide air, water, chemical, electrical, and hydraulic support systems
  • Knowledge of collection systems; including pump stations, regulator stations, CSO facilities and miscellaneous structures
  • Knowledge of mechanical and electrical theory, cross connections, and pumps
  • Knowledge of wastewater terminology and process control
  • Knowledge of industrial safety procedures and practices
  • Knowledge of and skill in applying sampling, testing and laboratory procedures
  • Manages Complexity: Making sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems
  • Communicates Effectively: Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences
  • Optimizes Work Processes: Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement
  • Situational Adaptability: Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations
  • Action Oriented: Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm
  • Washington State Group I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification from the Washington State Department of Ecology or out-of-state equivalency
  • Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
  • Washington State Group III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification or above.
  • Must obtain a City of Seattle Boiler Operator Grade III license within 2 years of employment (West Point only. City of Seattle requirement for operators to operate our boilers and raw sewage pump engines).

Nice To Haves

  • External candidates are eligible to be hired at the Operator level only. Senior operator level is obtained through an internal job progression process.

Responsibilities

  • Perform the duties and responsibilities identified on the Wastewater treatment plant Operator/Sr Operator
  • Operate, monitor, troubleshoot and maintain systems and processes in wastewater and stormwater facilities
  • Conduct sampling and test analysis of wastewater.
  • Determine, recommend/implement changes to systems and processes to meet permits and regulations and to optimize the performance of wastewater facilities
  • Train others on site-specific areas through on-the-job-training
  • Act as trainers in the new OIT program
  • Start up and shut down equipment and processes for maintenance and contractors
  • Serve in a lead capacity to operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain wastewater treatment facilities, odor control equipment, biological, chemical, mechanical, and hydraulic processes.
  • Provide advanced level troubleshooting, problem-solving, coordination and decision-making when performing duties, particularly in on-site, unusual and/or emergency situations.
  • Recommend and/or determine changes to wastewater process to meet federal and Washington State permits and regulations and to optimize plant performance.

Benefits

  • comprehensive benefits
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