Water Reclamation Operator I

Polk County•Winter Haven, FL

10h•Onsite

About The Position

The Utilities Division is responsible for public health and safety, as well as safeguarding the environment, by providing crucial safe water and wastewater services. This position is part of the team that provides services necessary for human health, economic stability, and overall societal well-being. At the core of the mission of providing these services includes commitment to providing excellent customer service to our citizens, business partners, regulatory agencies, and other county divisions. The Water Reclamation Operator performs professional, certified, and skilled work in the operation and maintenance of water reclamation treatment facilities, and reclaimed water pumping systems. Their responsibilities include operating and monitoring treatment systems, machinery, controls, and related equipment to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of wastewater and reclaimed water services. They make necessary adjustments to chemical dosing, mechanical components, and process controls in accordance with established procedures and regulatory standards. Operators also carry out routine mechanical and manual tasks to maintain optimal system performance, support regulatory compliance through water sampling and laboratory testing, and document operational data accurately. This role requires technical expertise, sound judgment, and a high level of responsibility to uphold the quality of treatment and system reliability. This position plays a key role in ensuring the reliability of essential utility services, regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and public health and safety.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license within 30 of employment.
Knowledge of water reclamation treatment and reclaimed water pumping processes, bacteriology, chemistry, and applicable regulations
Skilled in operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps, meters, and related equipment
Ability to apply mechanical and mathematical principles in daily tasks
Proficient in reading gauges, charts, and meters; able to distinguish color variations
Experienced in using industrial and personal computers with varying levels of proficiency
Capable of interpreting complex policies, procedures, schematics and technical manuals, codes, and safety protocols
Familiar with common tools and equipment maintenance practices
Able to work independently, including weekends and holidays, with minimal supervision
State, Federal, and local laws and regulatory agencies
Evaluating systems, providing quality control, and ensuring compliance
Entry Level position, limited experience in water reclamation

Nice To Haves

Florida Departmental of Environmental (FDEP) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator “C” License

Responsibilities

Operates and monitors all water reclamation facilities and reclaimed pumping processes and equipment to ensure proper functionality and regulatory compliance
Conducts daily operational checks; monitors meters, gauges, SCADA systems, and trends; records and analyzes data to optimize performance
Performs visual inspections of treatment facilities and equipment; identifies and addresses potential failures, leaks, or abnormal conditions.
Operates and monitors plant equipment, including pumps, mechanical and automatic controls, and SCADA systems; conducts daily inspections and ensures optimal functionality.
Maintains and cleans water reclamation maintains general housekeeping across plant facilities and grounds
Handles hazardous chemicals safely, including transferring, loading/unloading, and monitors fuel and chemical inventories, reports spills, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.
Operates pumps, valves, and gates to transfer wastewater or sludge between tanks; ensures proper sludge processing and coordinates contractor pickup
Collects wastewater and sludge samples; performs laboratory testing and analysis for process control and regulatory compliance
Assists in preparing and submitting reports to Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and other regulatory agencies; supports data compilation and documentation
Maintains accurate records of plant activities in written, electronic format; performs general administrative tasks and file management
Evaluates operational data to determine compliance with laws, regulations, and standards; analyzes issues and recommends solutions
Provides customer service to internal and external stakeholders; conducts plant tours and promotes positive public relations
Shares knowledge to ensure quality and consistency in daily operations
Obtains vendor quotes and prepares documentation to support procurement of supplies and services
Responds to phone calls, emails, alarms, and emergency situations; performs standby duty and may work flexible schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays
Performs other related duties as assigned