Lead Wastewater Operator

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Department: Operations

Reports To: WWRF Plant Manager

Requirements

Nature of Work

Under the supervision of the Plant Manager, functions with a senior level of responsibility in operations of treatment facilities to control flow and processing of wastewater, biosolids, reuse and effluent. Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings and test results to determine processing complies with established state and federal regulatory practices in treating wastewater and supplying non-potable irrigation water. Work is performed under limited supervision with moderate latitude. Exercises judgment in accordance with well-defined policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities

(The intent of this job description is to provide a summary of tasks performed in this classification. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.)

• Direct and oversee the daily operation and maintenance of the plant; Direct and coordinate work assignments of staff.
• Maintain adequate inventory of chemicals and supplies.
• Communicate work procedures and company policies to others in the department.
• Ensure staff are trained in the safe and efficient operation of assigned equipment, vehicles, machinery, and tools.
• Ensure proper operation and compliance with parameters set forth by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD).
• Physically inspect facility to monitor, adjust and record data from gauges, meters, control panels and equipment to ensure proper biological and chemical treatment, pressures, and flow rates of the wastewater/reuse/deep injection well (DIW) facility processes.
• Comply with all OSHA safety standards, personal protective equipment, and BSU safety regulations. Attends monthly safety meetings/training.
• Consults with and assists Plant Manager in completing daily technical operations and administrative tasks, to include records and reports.
• Consults with prior and subsequent shift workers to ascertain any operating problems and to provide information on facility status.
• Extracts samples and performs routine laboratory tests and microscopic analyses for internal process control, detecting irregularities, or permit required sampling, i.e., pH level, Dissolved Oxygen level, chlorine residuals, and nutrients.
• Enters all shift data into the computer system, DEP-mandated logbook and/or on checklists.
• Inspect, clean, and monitor the functioning of mechanical equipment, and perform routine troubleshooting on process equipment.
• Perform routine facility maintenance tasks.
• May be required to fill in as Plant Manager as necessary in their absence.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Advanced wastewater treatment methods and procedures, and sanitary/safety characteristics of wastewater and chemicals used in the treatment process.
• Plant safety precautions, and occupational hazards associated with wastewater treatment operations.
• Laboratory procedures to conduct tests.
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.
• Process control, microbiology, mechanical and electrical and chemical processes.
• State and Federal operating permits and regulations.
• Record maintenance principles and practice.
• Supervisory principles and techniques.
• Use of modern office equipment and various computer programs and applications, to include Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Organization, prioritization and time management.
• Gathering and maintaining accurate records.
• Troubleshooting of instrumentation, field equipment, and plant operational issues.
• Collecting and testing samples.
• Inspect, calibrate, and clean mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Learn Standard Operating Procedures for plant.
• Be adaptable to performing under frequent deadlines and/or in response to emergencies.
• Read and interpret various technical materials, ranging from moderate to complex terminology, associated with job functions.
• Log and record complete and accurate records into computer system, daily log sheets, and FDEP mandated logbooks.
• Exercise considerable independence in performing assigned tasks.
• Form and implement solutions in coordination with other department personnel.
• Guide, train, and assess other members of the department.
• Clearly communicate and understand information, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with both internal and external contacts.

• High school diploma or GED; supplemented by five (5) or more years' of progressively responsible experience in operating a wastewater treatment plant; or an equivalent combination of education, certification, training, and/or experience.
• Valid Florida driver's license.
• State of Florida Class "A" Wastewater Plant Operator's license. A "B" license will be accepted if an "A" License is actively being pursued.