Water Plant Operator

City of Cudahy•Water Purification Plant, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, performs all work during an assigned shift necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant, pump station, and related facilities. Also performs other maintenance and laboratory duties as directed by supervisors.

Requirements

Ability to apply technical knowledge & interpret technical instructions/regulations.
Deal with abstract and concrete variables.
Ability to respond to emergency work during non-working hours, work in anon-traditional work week & shift and be willing to work the hours required in order to maintain the water treatment system.
Ability to follow detailed direction, work independently within scope of assignment and knowledge, and make decision as required.
Ability to maintain effective and pleasant communication, oral and written, and present information with supervisors & co-workers.
Comprehend, follow and explain technical water distribution principles.
Ability to work independently; exercise initiative, resourcefulness and good judgment.
Ability to understand written & oral work orders, rules and operating guidelines
Ability to be resourceful and thorough & demonstrate problem solving skills
Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical & analytical computations
Ability to operate a computer and utilize basic software programs
Dependability and ability to work well with others and to display the proper attitude toward supervision.
Basic mechanical ability that requires maintenance of water treatment equipment
Ability to organize and maintain accurate records.
Knowledge and experience in basic skills employed in a water plant.
High School graduation or equivalent
Wisconsin Driver’s License and good driving record.
Must possess an S-1 waterworks operator certification from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources or be able to obtain the necessary certification within 12 months of employment.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Water Chemistry desirable

Responsibilities

Operate, inspect and maintain pumps, clearwells, reservoirs, settling basins, filters, engines, electric motors, and all water treatment plant mechanical and electrical equipment.
Perform maintenance functions such as adjusting, lubricating, painting and cleaning equipment.
Monitor chlorine residuals in the water.
Notify Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator in the event of major breakdowns.
Determine most efficient plant operation parameters by observing and interpreting treatment results.
Record plant performance on designated forms or enter into computerized database.
Make periodic inspections during the work shift of the various operating stations of the water treatment plant.
Read and record information and statistical data secured from recording charts and gauges.
Log operational functions and monitor system pressures and make pump adjustment if necessary.
Assist in unloading of chemicals and supplies.
Perform all work of a janitorial nature in an assigned area.
Perform plant maintenance and carry out specific assignments ordered by the Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator relating to routine maintenance of equipment, housekeeping, and chemical deliveries.
Obtain all required water samples from both the raw water and the filtered water systems.
Analyze water samples for potential bacteriological contamination and all other possible contaminants as required by State and Federal regulations.
Check concentrations and determine proper dosages of all chemicals added to the water such as chlorine, hydrofluosilicic acid, polyaluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate, polyphosphate, powdered activated carbon, etc.
Prepare all necessary laboratory media and reagents, clean and sterilize laboratory glassware and equipment, and maintain the laboratory in accordance with all specifications of the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services.
Take the necessary actions to obtain emergency repair people in the event of major equipment failures at the water treatment plant or pump station.
Receive notification of distribution system emergencies and contact the appropriate personnel to ensure that the problem is investigated.
Work split, swing or alternating shift as assigned by the Water Utility Manager due to the needs arising in the Water Utility.
Ensure that all work is performed in a safe manner and maintain a high standard of good housekeeping.
Complete all necessary forms and reports following established practices.
Ensure that all tools and equipment are in a safe operating condition.
Repair pumps, valves, motors, electrical equipment, meters, and all other equipment associated with the water pump station and treatment plant.
Notify affected customers of pumping interruptions.
Exercise plant valves.
During non-working hours, receive notification of emergencies at the pump station or treatment plant requiring immediate attention.
Operate treatment plant computer control system and make minor operational changes to the control system as required.
Perform any and all related duties as assigned.
The essential functions are not limited to those stated and shall include completing any & all forms and performing any and all related duties as assigned.