Tuolumne Utilities District
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Tuolumne Utilities District, Sonora, California, United States, 95370
Summary
These positions are in the Wastewater Treatment Operator classification (class) series. Under direct or general supervision of the Wastewater Operations Superintendent or Wastewater Foreman and/or Chief Plant Operator (CPO), operates, repairs and maintains the District’s wastewater treatment facilities, including sewer lift stations, and reclamation systems; reads and interprets charts and meter readings for analyzing the efficiency of plant operations; maintains chemical inventory; and performs other related work as required.
Class Characteristics
Operator-in-Training (OIT)
– the trainee-level class in the plant operations series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn District and operational procedures for wastewater treatment system equipment and facilities. As experience and certification is gained, assignments become more varied and the work is performed more independently. This class is alternately staffed with Plant Operator I and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing the work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 1
– the entry level class in this plant operations series. Under direct supervision, incumbents perform all tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants, including the reclamation system, and associated equipment and facilities. As experience and certification is gained, operators may independently operate plants and appurtenances under the certification of a senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. This class is alternately staffed with Plant Operator 2 and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing the work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 2
– the pre-journey level class in this plant operations series. Under general supervision, incumbents are learning to perform all job tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants, including the reclamation system, and associated equipment and facilities. This class may be alternately staffed with Plant Operator 3, and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 3
– the second journey level in this class series. Incumbents are fully competent to independently perform the full range of duties assigned including most complex duties. Incumbents in this classification may assist with the training and oversight of less experienced staff assigned to a treatment plant. This class may be alternately staffed with Plant Operator 4, and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 4
– the advanced journey level in this class series. Incumbents are fully competent to independently perform up to the most complex duties assigned. Incumbents in this classification may assist with the training and oversight of less experienced staff assigned to a treatment plant and may be assigned as Designated Operator in Charge.
Essential Functions (Illustrative Only) The duties shown are done to differing levels of complexity and under differing levels of supervision depending upon the experience, certification level and training of the incumbent. Higher levels of the operator class are expected to completely and independently undertake the duties listed, while lower levels may be assigned less complex tasks such as vegetation management, maintenance, and chemical delivery, and require instruction and assistance, or may singly accomplish only a portion of a listed activity.
Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Performs a variety of maintenance and repair on wastewater treatment reclamation system facilities including landscape maintenance such as weed and vegetation control, tree‑trimming and brushing, plumbing activities such as assisting in the repair of pipe leaks, shutting down systems and installing pipes, chemical feed lines and fittings.
Monitors and controls the operation of District wastewater treatment and pumping facilities to achieve proper processing of wastewater within mandated operating requirements such as the Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR).
Monitors the treatment processes, develops and maintains records and spreadsheets, enters data in appropriate logs, and develops and submits reports as required.
Tests operating and auxiliary equipment, logs readings from meters, recording charts, and SCADA, makes necessary process adjustments to maintain optimum plant performance.
Performs visual and audible inspections of processes and machinery to ensure proper operations and safety, operates valves and controls to feed chlorine and other chemicals into the systems.
Inspects pumps, motors, valves, filters, meters, and related plant equipment, performing preventive maintenance and repairs.
Performs daily wastewater treatment plant routines according to the plant’s standard operating procedures.
Operates and maintains a variety of automatic and manually controlled equipment, motors, and pumps used in the treatment, and disinfection of wastewater.
Takes samples, performs standardized quality control tests, and adjusts plant equipment accordingly.
Makes regular calculations of plant flow rates to ensure efficient plant operations.
Reads, interprets, records data and makes regular assessments of raw and treated wastewater quality for BOD, TSS, pH, temperature, alkalinity, and other pertinent data to maintain proper plant operating conditions.
Operates and maintains various hand and power tools and equipment.
Assists contractors and representatives of other agencies with work or services to be performed at District facilities.
Observes pumping equipment and troubleshoots and identifies possible problems and operating difficulties.
Operates a District vehicle, driving to lift stations and other facilities for inspection, maintenance or delivery of chemicals, materials, and supplies.
Practices and ensures adherence to District and OSHA safety procedures and requirements. Correct or report any unsafe conditions immediately.
Posts District correspondence signs as required.
Participates in training programs.
Maintains regular attendance and punctuality, and adheres to prescribed work schedule.
Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with co‑workers, outside agencies, contractors, and the public.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of:
Regulatory requirements, procedures, equipment, and techniques used in the collection, storage, transportation, and preparation of water samples for field or laboratory testing for both untreated and treated wastewater.
Physical characteristics of wastewater, safe handling of laboratory chemicals and reagents.
General laboratory and field analytical procedures and laboratory equipment.
Basic arithmetic including calculating proportions and percentages and measuring concentrations.
Safe work methods and safety precautions as related to the job.
Methods, materials, procedures, and equipment used in the adjustment, repair, operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants and facilities.
Wastewater treatment methods, principles, and Best Management Practices.
Standard water quality tests.
Federal, state, and county regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment operations.
Methods and precautions for handling and storing potentially hazardous chemicals.
Operation and maintenance of hand and power tools and light to moderately heavy power‑driven equipment.
Operation and application of Microsoft word processing and spreadsheet software applications.
Plant measurement and recording equipment.
Correct application and usage of the English language, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Skill in:
Operating, maintaining, and repairing a variety of wastewater treatment systems facilities and equipment.
Recognizing and correcting or reporting unusual, inefficient, or unsafe operating conditions.
Reading a variety of gauges, charts, and meters; recording data accurately and making appropriate process adjustments.
Making calculations as necessary to summarize data results, ascertain data trends, and aggregate information over time.
Conducting basic chemical and physical tests of potable water, influent, effluent, sludge, and related materials.
Using and maintaining the tools and equipment of the work skillfully and safely.
Handling hazardous chemicals in a safe manner.
Basic computer skills including word processing, basic spreadsheets, maintaining and sharing computer files.
Collecting and accurately entering data and creating spreadsheets as assigned.
Maintaining accurate records of work performed.
Using, properly maintaining, and ensuring the security of District‑owned equipment that may be provided to assist in the performance of assigned duties.
Understanding and following oral and written directions.
Establishing and maintaining professional and effective working relationships with those contacted in a course of the work and providing excellent customer service.
Ability to:
Work independently with minimal supervision (beyond OIT).
Read and write at the level required for successful job performance.
Perform algebraic and geometrical calculations and metric conversions.
Organize and maintain records and files, assemble data, and prepare reports.
Perform a variety of operations and maintenance assignments.
Perform strenuous, manual labor often exposed to inclement weather conditions.
Operate small, heavy equipment such as a small backhoe, mini‑excavator, forklift, two axle trucks, pallet jacks, barrel lifts and hand trucks.
Use a variety of tools with skill and safety.
Read district map books.
Provide excellent customer service and relations.
Understand and operate manual and automatic plant control systems including SCADA.
Read plant measurements and recording equipment, interpreting results to adjust plant operations.
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and correct a variety of operating problems.
Use proper safety precautions in working with wastewater plant chemicals.
Perform standard wastewater quality tests.
Maintain, interpret and update plant records and logs.
Actively participate in Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) development.
Read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams.
Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with those contacted during the work.
Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to speak and hear to effectively interface with other staff members and the public; walk, stand, kneel, crawl, climb, lift and move up to 50 pounds, pull, stoop, bend, squat, twist, turn and work in tight, confined space; use hands and fingers to write and to handle, gripe, feel and operate tools, pumps, and equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
Outside: Drive a vehicle and perform tasks in a variety of weather conditions ranging from snow, and below freezing to 100°F+; confined workspace; at heights, such as ladders or on a tank, and around raw sewage.
Inside: Work performed in a temperature‑controlled environment.
Fumes/Gasses: Exposure to various vapors and/or airborne particles from powder and liquid chemicals; strong fumes; and unpleasant odors.
Noise/Vibration: Exposure to generators.
Education and Experience Requirements Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be qualifying as determined solely by the District. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities would be:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
Must possess a valid Class C California driver’s license, have a satisfactory driving record, and be insurable by the District to operate District vehicles.
FIT Testing: Pass FIT test requirements of Respiratory Protection Program.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – In‑Training (OIT) In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator OIT has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade OIT certification issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) or obtain within 2 months of hire date.
California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I certification issued by SWRCB within 18 months of hire date as a condition of continued employment.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 1 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator 1 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I certification issued by SWRCB.
Valid Class B California Driver License with Tank & Air Brake endorsement is desirable.
One‑year experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities as a Wastewater OIT.
California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade II certification issued by SWRCB within 24 months of obtaining Grade 1 certification as a condition of continued employment.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 2 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade 2 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade II certification issued by SWRCB.
Two years’ experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities, including one full year equivalent to that of a Wastewater Operator, Grade 1.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 3 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade 3 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade III certification issued by SWRCB.
Two years’ experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities, equivalent to that of a Wastewater Operator, Grade 2.
Operators must complete the designated number of contact hours (i.e. continuing education/training requirements) as determined by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) to maintain the required certifications. Certifications are required as a condition of continued employment; failure to comply with SWRCB regulations pertaining to required certifications for the position will result in termination of employment.
Work Hours Core work hours are between 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and regular schedule is considered to be five consecutive workdays as assigned to include one weekend day. Subject to change, as required to meet the needs of the District. Must work overtime and/or alternate schedule when required.
Certified operators, grades 1 and above, must participate in the on‑call standby rotation on a regular basis; therefore, must live within an 18‑mile radius of the District’s main facility unless otherwise arranged or approved by the District.
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Class Characteristics
Operator-in-Training (OIT)
– the trainee-level class in the plant operations series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn District and operational procedures for wastewater treatment system equipment and facilities. As experience and certification is gained, assignments become more varied and the work is performed more independently. This class is alternately staffed with Plant Operator I and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing the work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 1
– the entry level class in this plant operations series. Under direct supervision, incumbents perform all tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants, including the reclamation system, and associated equipment and facilities. As experience and certification is gained, operators may independently operate plants and appurtenances under the certification of a senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. This class is alternately staffed with Plant Operator 2 and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing the work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 2
– the pre-journey level class in this plant operations series. Under general supervision, incumbents are learning to perform all job tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants, including the reclamation system, and associated equipment and facilities. This class may be alternately staffed with Plant Operator 3, and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 3
– the second journey level in this class series. Incumbents are fully competent to independently perform the full range of duties assigned including most complex duties. Incumbents in this classification may assist with the training and oversight of less experienced staff assigned to a treatment plant. This class may be alternately staffed with Plant Operator 4, and incumbents may advance after gaining experience, required level of certification, meeting the qualifications of and consistently performing work of the higher-level class.
Plant Operator 4
– the advanced journey level in this class series. Incumbents are fully competent to independently perform up to the most complex duties assigned. Incumbents in this classification may assist with the training and oversight of less experienced staff assigned to a treatment plant and may be assigned as Designated Operator in Charge.
Essential Functions (Illustrative Only) The duties shown are done to differing levels of complexity and under differing levels of supervision depending upon the experience, certification level and training of the incumbent. Higher levels of the operator class are expected to completely and independently undertake the duties listed, while lower levels may be assigned less complex tasks such as vegetation management, maintenance, and chemical delivery, and require instruction and assistance, or may singly accomplish only a portion of a listed activity.
Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Performs a variety of maintenance and repair on wastewater treatment reclamation system facilities including landscape maintenance such as weed and vegetation control, tree‑trimming and brushing, plumbing activities such as assisting in the repair of pipe leaks, shutting down systems and installing pipes, chemical feed lines and fittings.
Monitors and controls the operation of District wastewater treatment and pumping facilities to achieve proper processing of wastewater within mandated operating requirements such as the Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR).
Monitors the treatment processes, develops and maintains records and spreadsheets, enters data in appropriate logs, and develops and submits reports as required.
Tests operating and auxiliary equipment, logs readings from meters, recording charts, and SCADA, makes necessary process adjustments to maintain optimum plant performance.
Performs visual and audible inspections of processes and machinery to ensure proper operations and safety, operates valves and controls to feed chlorine and other chemicals into the systems.
Inspects pumps, motors, valves, filters, meters, and related plant equipment, performing preventive maintenance and repairs.
Performs daily wastewater treatment plant routines according to the plant’s standard operating procedures.
Operates and maintains a variety of automatic and manually controlled equipment, motors, and pumps used in the treatment, and disinfection of wastewater.
Takes samples, performs standardized quality control tests, and adjusts plant equipment accordingly.
Makes regular calculations of plant flow rates to ensure efficient plant operations.
Reads, interprets, records data and makes regular assessments of raw and treated wastewater quality for BOD, TSS, pH, temperature, alkalinity, and other pertinent data to maintain proper plant operating conditions.
Operates and maintains various hand and power tools and equipment.
Assists contractors and representatives of other agencies with work or services to be performed at District facilities.
Observes pumping equipment and troubleshoots and identifies possible problems and operating difficulties.
Operates a District vehicle, driving to lift stations and other facilities for inspection, maintenance or delivery of chemicals, materials, and supplies.
Practices and ensures adherence to District and OSHA safety procedures and requirements. Correct or report any unsafe conditions immediately.
Posts District correspondence signs as required.
Participates in training programs.
Maintains regular attendance and punctuality, and adheres to prescribed work schedule.
Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with co‑workers, outside agencies, contractors, and the public.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of:
Regulatory requirements, procedures, equipment, and techniques used in the collection, storage, transportation, and preparation of water samples for field or laboratory testing for both untreated and treated wastewater.
Physical characteristics of wastewater, safe handling of laboratory chemicals and reagents.
General laboratory and field analytical procedures and laboratory equipment.
Basic arithmetic including calculating proportions and percentages and measuring concentrations.
Safe work methods and safety precautions as related to the job.
Methods, materials, procedures, and equipment used in the adjustment, repair, operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants and facilities.
Wastewater treatment methods, principles, and Best Management Practices.
Standard water quality tests.
Federal, state, and county regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment operations.
Methods and precautions for handling and storing potentially hazardous chemicals.
Operation and maintenance of hand and power tools and light to moderately heavy power‑driven equipment.
Operation and application of Microsoft word processing and spreadsheet software applications.
Plant measurement and recording equipment.
Correct application and usage of the English language, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Skill in:
Operating, maintaining, and repairing a variety of wastewater treatment systems facilities and equipment.
Recognizing and correcting or reporting unusual, inefficient, or unsafe operating conditions.
Reading a variety of gauges, charts, and meters; recording data accurately and making appropriate process adjustments.
Making calculations as necessary to summarize data results, ascertain data trends, and aggregate information over time.
Conducting basic chemical and physical tests of potable water, influent, effluent, sludge, and related materials.
Using and maintaining the tools and equipment of the work skillfully and safely.
Handling hazardous chemicals in a safe manner.
Basic computer skills including word processing, basic spreadsheets, maintaining and sharing computer files.
Collecting and accurately entering data and creating spreadsheets as assigned.
Maintaining accurate records of work performed.
Using, properly maintaining, and ensuring the security of District‑owned equipment that may be provided to assist in the performance of assigned duties.
Understanding and following oral and written directions.
Establishing and maintaining professional and effective working relationships with those contacted in a course of the work and providing excellent customer service.
Ability to:
Work independently with minimal supervision (beyond OIT).
Read and write at the level required for successful job performance.
Perform algebraic and geometrical calculations and metric conversions.
Organize and maintain records and files, assemble data, and prepare reports.
Perform a variety of operations and maintenance assignments.
Perform strenuous, manual labor often exposed to inclement weather conditions.
Operate small, heavy equipment such as a small backhoe, mini‑excavator, forklift, two axle trucks, pallet jacks, barrel lifts and hand trucks.
Use a variety of tools with skill and safety.
Read district map books.
Provide excellent customer service and relations.
Understand and operate manual and automatic plant control systems including SCADA.
Read plant measurements and recording equipment, interpreting results to adjust plant operations.
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and correct a variety of operating problems.
Use proper safety precautions in working with wastewater plant chemicals.
Perform standard wastewater quality tests.
Maintain, interpret and update plant records and logs.
Actively participate in Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) development.
Read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams.
Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with those contacted during the work.
Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to speak and hear to effectively interface with other staff members and the public; walk, stand, kneel, crawl, climb, lift and move up to 50 pounds, pull, stoop, bend, squat, twist, turn and work in tight, confined space; use hands and fingers to write and to handle, gripe, feel and operate tools, pumps, and equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
Outside: Drive a vehicle and perform tasks in a variety of weather conditions ranging from snow, and below freezing to 100°F+; confined workspace; at heights, such as ladders or on a tank, and around raw sewage.
Inside: Work performed in a temperature‑controlled environment.
Fumes/Gasses: Exposure to various vapors and/or airborne particles from powder and liquid chemicals; strong fumes; and unpleasant odors.
Noise/Vibration: Exposure to generators.
Education and Experience Requirements Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be qualifying as determined solely by the District. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities would be:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
Must possess a valid Class C California driver’s license, have a satisfactory driving record, and be insurable by the District to operate District vehicles.
FIT Testing: Pass FIT test requirements of Respiratory Protection Program.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – In‑Training (OIT) In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator OIT has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade OIT certification issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) or obtain within 2 months of hire date.
California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I certification issued by SWRCB within 18 months of hire date as a condition of continued employment.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 1 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator 1 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I certification issued by SWRCB.
Valid Class B California Driver License with Tank & Air Brake endorsement is desirable.
One‑year experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities as a Wastewater OIT.
California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade II certification issued by SWRCB within 24 months of obtaining Grade 1 certification as a condition of continued employment.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 2 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade 2 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade II certification issued by SWRCB.
Two years’ experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities, including one full year equivalent to that of a Wastewater Operator, Grade 1.
Wastewater Treatment Operator – Grade 3 In addition to the qualifications above, the Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade 3 has:
Current California Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade III certification issued by SWRCB.
Two years’ experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment and related facilities, equivalent to that of a Wastewater Operator, Grade 2.
Operators must complete the designated number of contact hours (i.e. continuing education/training requirements) as determined by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) to maintain the required certifications. Certifications are required as a condition of continued employment; failure to comply with SWRCB regulations pertaining to required certifications for the position will result in termination of employment.
Work Hours Core work hours are between 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and regular schedule is considered to be five consecutive workdays as assigned to include one weekend day. Subject to change, as required to meet the needs of the District. Must work overtime and/or alternate schedule when required.
Certified operators, grades 1 and above, must participate in the on‑call standby rotation on a regular basis; therefore, must live within an 18‑mile radius of the District’s main facility unless otherwise arranged or approved by the District.
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