Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Monitors, operates, and maintains equipment in relation to the wastewater treatment plant and pump stations on assigned shift. Ensures that wastewater and biosolids undergo appropriate treatment/stabilization methods according to local, state and federal regulations and to protect public health.
Essential Duties:
Monitors and as directed, operates computerized control systems and related equipment within the wastewater treatment plant to regulate liquid waste, sewage treatment and the disposal of sewage and wastes.
Operates associated thickening equipment (pumps, grinders, centrifuge) to maintain proper biological treatment capabilities.
Operates assorted pumps and valves used to control flows and treatment processes based upon established parameters.
Periodically patrols plant to check equipment operating status and the respective treatment processes for proper operation and to maintain facility security.
Monitors and reads recording instruments used for flow measurement, chemical consumption, disinfection and odor control.
Detects malfunctions and notifies supervision promptly to insure plant systems and equipment are operating within prescribed limits.
Utilizes and maintains specialized safety equipment (SCBAs, gas detectors, ventilators, etc) associated with safely handling of the respective chemicals and compounds.
Collects various samples to detect chemical and bacterial content, learns basic laboratory testing procedures and makes adjustments to facility processes as directed.
Records and maintains reports concerning plant operations. Completes work orders issued for equipment maintenance and repair.
Performs security checks throughout plant and on grounds. Performs various housekeeping assignments.
Assists in the installation and repair of plant machinery utilizing assorted light and heavy equipment. Performs repairs on various concrete surfaces as needed.
Operates equipment specific to corrosion control and the application of industrial coatings.
Performs assorted grounds maintenance including spraying herbicides and sprinkler system repairs as needed.
Occasionally interacts with customers and local school groups and as a representative of the treatment facility.
Minimum Qualifications:
This position is subject to the City of Hobbs' Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy which includes one or more of the following: pre-employment testing, post accident testing, random testing, reasonable suspicion testing, return to duty testing and follow-up testing.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent required. One year practical experience working in an industrial facility or mechanical setting is preferred. Secondary education or training in an environmental field is preferred. The compensation table provided below is based on the individual's level of experience and certification status according to the standards set by the State of New Mexico. Uncertified - Hiring Range - $ 21.98 - $ 25.28 Level I - Hiring Range - $ 23.08 - $ 26.54 Level II - Hiring Range - $ 24.24 - $ 27.88 Level III - Hiring Range - $ 25.45 - $ 29.27 Level IV - Hiring Range - $ 28.59 - $ 32.88KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIESBasic knowledge of processing equipment, facilities and procedures. Working knowledge in the maintenance, construction and repair activities associated with mechanical systems. Basic computer skills for entering sample results into a computer and monitoring the treatment process. Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations. Ability to learn basic laboratory techniques and procedures for analyzing wastewater samples. Ability to work under conditions with objectionable odors and potentially hazardous environments. Ability to work within trenches and at various heights. Ability to work rotating shift work, and provide additional coverage when deemed necessary. Ability to read and understand basic process, piping and electrical schematics. Ability to operate and maintain light and heavy equipment. Ability to meet ultimate prescribed certification level as per the certification and training policy. Ability to work independently and to complete daily activities according to work schedule. Ability to effectively communicate orally, via radio and in writing. Ability to understand, follow and transmit written and oral instructions in English. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Wastewater Treatment Plant personnel, Utilities personnel, and the general public. LICENSING AND CERTIFICATIONSValid state issued drivers license. Ability to obtain required NMED certification levels as per the City of Hobbs certification and training policy.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk and hear, or reach with hands and arms from a standing position. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk on uneven grades and surfaces, climb stairways, kneel and use hands and fingers to handle feel or operate objects, tools or controls. The employee is occasionally required to lay, climb or balance, work at heights, stoop, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move heavy objects up to 100 pounds or more. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts and equipment and regularly works outdoors. The employee occasionally works in confined spaces and is frequently exposed to adverse weather conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, vibration, hot surfaces, rotating equipment, stored energy, risk of electrical shock, drowning and exposure to blood borne pathogens. The noise level in the work environment is generally moderate to loud.
