Water and Sewer Operator Trainee

Calvert County Government
•$23 - $27

About The Position

Performs entry-level water and wastewater systems work. Water and Sewer Operator Trainees operate, inspect, and maintain water and wastewater facilities and equipment to meet regulatory requirements, with guidance from plant operators and supervisors. The work is intended to acquaint the trainee with the principles and techniques of water and sewer plant operation. It requires prior plumbing or mechanical experience and is performed under close supervision. The position is with the Department of Public Works, Water and Sewerage. It is a full-time, 35-hour-per-week, nonexempt position. Work location and hours may change to meet business objectives. The position may require weekend and holiday work and responding to, or remaining on the job for, emergencies. Compensation is $23.30–$26.69 per hour, or $42,406–$48,576 annually.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • At least six months of plumbing or mechanical maintenance experience.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must apply for the appropriate temporary Wastewater and Water operator certifications from the Board of Waterworks and Waste Systems Operators, Water Management Administration, Maryland Department of the Environment, as required by assigned facilities at employment.
  • To continue employment, obtain a Maryland Class B commercial driver's license, MDE sampler certification, and CPR/First Aid certification within the first six months of employment.
  • Knowledge of general mechanical maintenance and operation procedures.
  • Ability to learn water and sewer plant and systems operations.
  • Ability to deal effectively with the public; communicate effectively orally and in writing; and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to learn to use tractors, bobcats, loaders, a sewer jetter, and lawn tractors.
  • Able to operate a County-owned vehicle.
  • Ability to move and lift equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and use hand and power tools.
  • Work may involve confined spaces, elevated storage tanks, sewer manholes, and ladder use.
  • Workers are exposed to dirt and soil, sewage, chemicals, moving equipment, and power-tool hazards.

Responsibilities

  • Perform preventative equipment maintenance, housekeeping, building and grounds maintenance, sample collection, field laboratory process testing, chemical mixing, septage receiving, and data entry.
  • Monitor and document daily water and wastewater system performance, and collect and enter operations data.
  • Perform quality control checks and laboratory tests and collect water and wastewater samples.
  • Flush water systems.
  • Train in chemical mixing and the routine operation and use of water and wastewater systems equipment and tools.
  • Maintain facilities and equipment according to established schedules and procedures, including cleaning, servicing, lubricating, and repairing pumps, air compressors and blowers, chemical feed equipment, lawn equipment, air release valves, and other mechanical devices.
  • Complete equipment checklists.
  • Assist with cleaning and inspecting wet wells, holding tanks, aeration basins, sewer mains, and laterals.
  • Perform general housekeeping and maintenance, including mowing, weed cutting, painting, and cleaning facilities, equipment, and tools.
  • Unload, mix, and deliver chemicals and equipment for water and wastewater facilities.
  • Inspect and maintain the septage receiving facility; collect samples and enter and review related data.
  • Respond to customer complaints and water and sewer emergencies.
  • Assist maintenance personnel with routine and emergency repairs.
  • Perform related work as required.

Benefits

  • 15 days of sick leave
  • 10 days of annual leave
  • 5 days of personal leave
  • 13 paid holidays (14 in an election year)
  • Defined Contribution Plan
  • 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Up to 80% tuition reimbursement
  • Gym membership discounts
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