Water Reclamation Facility Operator I

City of Ottawa•Ottawa, KS

3d•$21 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Utilities Superintendent - WRF, the Water Reclamation Facility Operator I performs skilled and semi-skilled labor in the maintenance and operation of the Water Reclamation Facility and lift station. The role includes operating and maintaining equipment, collecting and testing wastewater samples, maintaining records, supporting wastewater treatment, and carrying out facility, grounds, and sludge-handling tasks. The operator may serve on the emergency call-in system and must be willing to work rotating and extended shifts.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must progressively acquire Wastewater Operator certification from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment up to and including Class II within 12 months of the first eligibility date for obtaining each certification level.
Must maintain a valid driver's license and be insurable by the City's carrier.
Basic knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and biological systems.
Knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, chemicals, gases, and laboratory testing equipment.
Ability to operate heavy equipment, pumps, and related equipment, as well as computer systems.
Ability and willingness to work rotating and extended shifts.
Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
Ability to establish and maintain successful working relationships with employees, City officials, businesses, and the public.
Ability to organize and prioritize work, concentrate on multiple tasks, work under general supervision, and make responsible decisions.
Ability to use good judgment and think quickly and rationally in difficult or stressful situations.
Ability to perform the listed physical activities, including repetitive hand and wrist movements, manual dexterity, climbing, operating mechanical equipment, and lifting 100 or more pounds.
Must meet the stated vision and hand-eye coordination abilities and maintain regular attendance.

Nice To Haves

One to three years of wastewater operator experience.
Class IV Wastewater Operator certification by the five-year employment anniversary.

Responsibilities

Operate motorized vehicles, equipment, pumps, motors, and related machinery.
Collect samples at sources of supply and conduct technical, bacteriological, and chemical examinations of raw, settled, and filtered sewage samples.
Prepare and maintain laboratory testing equipment and keep accurate laboratory data records.
Inspect and maintain lift stations; check equipment daily, grease bearings, change filters, and troubleshoot or correct malfunctions.
Prepare written documentation and reports and enter data into computerized spreadsheets.
Perform building and grounds maintenance, including mowing grass and removing snow or ice with a Bobcat, snow blower, or shovel.
Climb ladders and stairs to access remote areas of the plant and lift stations.
Maintain the ultraviolet disinfection system, including cleaning or replacing lamp sleeves, lamps, plugs, ballasts, and sleeve wipers.
Prepare waste sludge for transfer to a landfill by reducing water content, converting it from liquid to solid form, and setting up and operating a belt press.
Observe plant equipment and ensure proper wastewater treatment; make adjustments or repairs as needed.
Notify the Superintendent when supplies are needed.
Serve on the emergency call-in system.
Comply with City ordinances and practices.
Assist other departments and perform other related duties as assigned.