Water Pollution Control Plant Student Operator

City of Ames•50010, IA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Ames Water and Pollution Control Department has an exciting opportunity for WPC Plant Student Operators to provide support to the WPC Division! Under close supervision, performs work involving primary responsibility for the operation of the Water and Pollution Control plant, and pumping stations to treat the domestic and industrial wastewater needs for the Ames community, Iowa State University and the City of Kelley. The WPC Student Operator will typically work 16-19 hours every week throughout the calendar year. After the training period, the WPC Plant Student Operator will work independently on their assigned shifts. This position works primarily two weekends on and two weekends off, at which time you will work 2-3 days during the week for two weeks which may include holidays. Typical weekend shifts include 2pm-10pm and 10pm-6am, and may vary due to shifts needing to be filled. Please note that weekend hours may be subject to change. This position provides an excellent opportunity for practical experience in engineering, chemistry, and environmental science fields. Due to the amount of training provided to the WPC Plant Student Operators, we request all applicants be committed to employment with the WPC Plant for a minimum of 12 months.

Requirements

Current college student.
Valid driver's license required.
Extensive training will be provided; knowledge of computer systems; knowledge of the principles of hydraulics, chemistry, and electricity; ability to read and interpret data; ability to make mathematical computations; ability to work alone on an operating shift and take responsibility for previously outlined procedures; ability to follow standard operating procedures; ability to act quickly and calmly in emergency situations on an individual basis; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens, supervisors, co-workers and other City employees.

Nice To Haves

Student enrolled in a program related to the field of water environmental treatment, wastewater treatment, engineering, environmental science, or chemistry; OR one year of experience with mechanical equipment; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

Performs increasingly difficult and skilled work as training and education progresses.
Conducts laboratory tests and equipment checks to monitor overall treatment process.
Operates a wide variety of pumps, motors, chemical feed equipment, and other related equipment used in wastewater treatment; collects samples and tests for wastewater parameters as assigned; adjusts chemical feed and other equipment to meet prescribed water quality limits; adjusts pumping and plant treatment rates accordingly to maintain adequate wastewater treatment; enters process data into computer system; maintains plant operating records by making calculations and completing operating logs; creates reports; observes mechanical equipment to ensure proper operating condition and performance; attends or provides training as required; provides customer service as required; consults with and receives approval from supervisor(s) before making process changes such as plant start-up and shutdown, mode changes.
The WPC Plant Student Operator performs maintenance duties during assigned maintenance shifts; performs extra computer tasks, sampling and laboratory duties in connection with special plant or research projects; drives maintenance vehicles on occasion.
Performs related work as required.
Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our Excellence Through People organizational culture.
For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life.
For all employees, this includes maintaining a Total City Perspective.
The purpose of ETP is to deliver exceptional services to the public at the best price, and for employees to experience an enjoyable and stimulating work environment.