Entry Level Water Microbiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will remain open until filled. The Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) is seeking a motivated and dependable Water Operator to join our team. This position ranges from the highest level of a Virginia Licensed Class One operator to a Trainee.

Title and compensation to commensurate with Licensure, experience, and education. The Water Operator Class One performs tasks, necessary tests, and applies judgment based upon training and defined operations and maintenance practices related to the processing of water at treatment facilities and/or pump stations; does related work as required. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Manager, Assistant Manager, and/or Supervisor of the Water Department.

Operates domestic water treatment systems including chemical, physical, and microbiological processes; May be the designated shift lead and be responsible for the safe operation of their assigned plant, including the supervision of other operators on duty.An entry level Water Operator Trainee could join the team and begin on-the-job training. This position provides hands-on training in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities and pump stations. As a trainee, you will work alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely and efficiently produce high-quality drinking water while meeting all regulatory requirements

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in building a long-term career in the water utility field. What You'll Do Conducts regular walking inspections of facility; observing process control parameters via SCADA, various instrumentation screens, and results of laboratory analyses; and anticipates and plans for flow changes and treatment system adjustments; Responds to all alarms, failures, and process needs occurring at any water facility; Reads meters and gauges, enters data in operational logs and computer spreadsheets, and completes other permanent and temporary records and reports; Observes operations of chemical feed systems, and replenishes as needed, monitors and measures feed rates on a regular and timely basis, adjusts feed rates to meet treatment needs and operating permit goals and requirements; Diagnoses water treatment problems and equipment failures; Collects samples and performs analyses on water samples as scheduled and as needed, collects, and submits to central laboratory all required samples, interprets tests results and makes corresponding treatment process changes where necessary, and conducts special tests as required by supervisor; Understands plant valving and piping systems and makes changes to flow patterns as needed; Maintains and calibrates instrumentation and other plant equipment; Performs preventive and minor maintenance on equipment and assists maintenance personnel as needed; Responds to maintenance problems with appropriate action and is aware of process alternatives; Orders and delivers chemicals and equipment parts and supplies; Checks pump stations, operates filter press, cleans basins, and assists in filter testing while on utility shifts; Performs duties and tasks in an environmentally friendly manner; Performs general housekeeping and other building and grounds tasks as assigned; Trains employees on the intricacies of the plants; Performs duties in accordance with all local, state, and federal laws, rules and guidelines; Maintains effective working relationship with Authority staff and the public; follows procedures and properly responds to any complaint;