Sludge-Filtration Operator

The purpose of this classification is to perform specialized technical work functions associated with waste treatment plant operations and maintenance.

The following duties are normal for this classification. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Specific duties listed may not be required for all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.

Operates sludge building and manages residual sludge created by water treatment processes to keep basins free of sludge build-up.

Determines frequency of sludge removal from treatment basin and operates belt filter press facility to dehydrate sludge; operates dump truck to remove solids from plant site to disposal site.

Monitors waste treatment plant processes and equipment operations per established procedures to ensure proper treatment/disposal of waste per federal/state regulations.

Monitors and inspects plant equipment and operations for safety, maintenance, and proper process operations; performs repairs or refers need for repair to appropriate maintenance personnel.

Collects sludge samples for analysis; performs in-house testing of samples; records instrument readings and test results.

Operates machinery, equipment and tools in performance of assigned duties, specifically: tractors, lawn mowers, weed eaters, power tools, pressure washers, cutting torches, chain saws, air compressors, pumps, motors, generators, blowers, and valves.

Performs cleaning, repair, and maintenance tasks to keep plant, machinery, equipment, tools and grounds in good condition.

Prepares logs and records of test results and other data; receives reports, forms, and correspondence; reviews, processes or forwards; maintains documentation for reference.

Answers telephones and responds to requests for information or assistance from employees, officials, the public or other individuals.

Trained in essential functions and performs duties of water operator assistant by request.

Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.

Performs other related duties as required.

High school diploma or GED required; one year of experience in water plant operations or a related field. Must obtain an Alabama Commercial Drivers Permit within six (6) months of employment and must possess and maintain a valid Alabama Commercial Driver's License, Class B, within twelve (12) months of employment. This job classification is considered to be safety-sensitive and is subject to pre-employment and random drug screens.

The following requirements are normal for this classification. Specific requirements may not apply to all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to operate a variety of mechanical and waste treatment equipment including a dump truck, air compressors, centrifuge, tractor, lawn mower, weed eater, power tools, pressure washer, cutting torch, chain saw, pumps, motors, generators, blowers, valves, mechanics tools, painting equipment, custodial equipment and hand tools. Physical demand requirements for some positions within this classification may at times be at levels of those for heavy work.

DATA COMPREHENSION: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things which may include forms, reports, electrical diagrams, procedural manuals, and operational manuals.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability to speak with and/or signal people to convey or exchange waste treatment and mechanical information, including giving/receiving assignments and/or directions to/from co-workers, assistants, managers, or supervisors as well as communicating with the general public.

LANGUAGE ABILITY: Requires ability to read a variety of waste treatment and mechanical documentation, directions, instructions, and methods and procedures. Requires the ability to write basic job related documentation and reports with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control, and confidence using correct English and well-modulated voice.

INTELLIGENCE: Requires the ability to learn and understand complex mechanical and waste treatment-related principles and techniques, to understand departmental policies and procedures, to make independent judgments in absence of supervision, and to acquire and be able to expound on knowledge of topics related to primary occupation.

VERBAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, and to follow verbal and written instructions.

NUMERICAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to add and subtract totals; multiply and divide totals; determine percentages; and determine time and weight.

FORM/SPATIAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to visually inspect items for proper length, width, and shape using job related equipment which may include scales, standard measuring devices, and testing kits.

MOTOR COORDINATION: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes in using mechanical, electrical, and waste treatment-related equipment and to operate a motor vehicle.

MANUAL DEXTERITY: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, electrical, mechanical, and waste treatment equipment, control knobs, switches, etc. Must have the ability to use one hand for twisting motion or turning motion while coordinating other hand with different activities. Must have average levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.

COLOR DIFFERENTIATION: Requires the ability to discern color.

INTERPERSONAL TEMPERAMENT: Requires the ability to deal with and relate to people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be able to adapt to and perform under moderate stress when confronted with an emergency.

PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability to talk, express, or exchange ideas by means of spoken words and/or hear and perceive nature of sounds by ear.