Wastewater Plant Operator in Training

This is specialized work in the proper operation and maintenance of the Water Pollution Control Facility and Pump Stations. Work is performed in accordance with standard practices, codes, and OSHA-required safety protocols. Work involves the proper operation, care, and maintenance of all Treatment Plant and Pump Station equipment including the Wastewater Collection System.

This is a unique opportunity for individuals who have successfully passed the State of Connecticuts Class III Wastewater Operator Certification exam, but do not yet have the required number of years of experience working directly in the wastewater industry to become a certified operator.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the WPCF Superintendent, Wastewater Plant Operator Supervisor, Wastewater Plant Operators of a higher-level, and the General Manager of the water pollution control utility. This position directly reports to the WPCF Superintendent.

• Assist Operator with wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment used to control flow and sludge disposal equipment
• Assist Operator in monitoring gauges, meters, and control panels to determine processing requirements
• Assist Operator in operation of valves and gates, stop and start pumps, and generators to control and adjust flows
• Assist Operator with maintenance of shift log and record meter and gauge readings
• Extract samples for routine laboratory tests and analyses
• Operate sewer pipe cleaning equipment
• Assist Operator with maintenance of emergency power generating equipment
• Operate equipment to locate, uncover, clean, rod, and flush sanitary sewer manholes and pipes, including entering sewer manholes to remove accumulated waste materials
• Assist Operator with pumping sludge from primary tanks to the digesters
• Assist Operator with belt filter press and gravity table when required
• Operate a variety of trucks, tractors, loaders, sewer cleaners, pumps, pressure washers, and other equipment to complete assigned tasks
• Perform plumbing and pipe fitting tasks, welding, and minor electrical work
• Perform routine maintenance and repair tasks on buildings, pump stations, collection systems, composting process, and grounds as required
• Assist Operator with routine and operational maintenance of treatment units
• Assist Operator with preventive maintenance and operating records
• Must be willing to accept assignment to overtime for emergency duties including snow and ice removal as required, including evenings, weekends and holidays
• May be assigned on the job training under the supervision of a higher classified employee
• Tasks may require exposure to strong odors, temperature and weather extremes, dust, pollen, wetness, humidity, wildlife, extreme heights, and vibrations
• Perform other related duties as required, including those of lower classifications

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to understand the methods and practice of operating conditions in a modern water pollution control facility and to assist with the operation of a manual or a computerized plant
• Knowledge of the functions of engines, pumps, digesters, and mechanical equipment
• Knowledge of the implications of improper sewage treatment towards community health and well-being
• Ability to assist with inspection of mechanical equipment, including detecting flaws and defects and solving routine technical or operational problems
• Ability to read meters and charts accurately; ability to prepare detailed records and reports accurately
• Ability to maintain records of shift operations
• Ability to perform manual work for extended periods, sometimes under unfavorable weather conditions including climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling; may also require lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling of materials, as well as working in confined spaces in awkward positions
• Ability to understand and interpret sometimes detailed and procedural oral and written instructions and directives
• Ability to read, interpret and apply information from technical manuals, blueprints, meters, charts, and other documents
• Knowledge of mechanics and operation of sewage treatment plant pumps and pump systems, machinery, equipment, materials and operating procedures of a modern wastewater treatment facility
• Ability to diagnose sewage treatment plant pump system malfunctions and determine appropriate repair procedures
• Ability to understand and adhere to established policies, procedures and safety protocols
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions
• Ability to perform in a courteous and professional manner amongst staff and the public on a daily basis
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with coworkers and superiors

• Graduation from High School or GED
• Possess a valid Connecticut Drivers License and a Class B Commercial Drivers License with riders and endorsements for HAZMAT and Tanker and be able to operate plant vehicles
• Mechanical maintenance experience
• Minimum four (4) years experience and knowledge in the operation of a modern Water Pollution Control Facility using the activated sludge secondary treatment process and all related pump and ejector station equipment. May hold the position without the required years of experience.
• Must have a passing score on the Class III Wastewater Operator Certification exam administered by the State of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
• Must obtain a Class III (or higher) Wastewater Operator Certificate from DEEP within four (4) years of passing the certification exam
• Must have working knowledge of plant SCADA system and mechanical maintenance services.

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to a wide variety of weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, noise, odor, and dust.
• Works in areas which are accessed via climbing ladders, scaffolds, etc.
• Works near moving mechanical parts.
• Operates and maintains equipment requiring personal protection equipment.
• May be required to work in confined or closed quarters, for potentially extended periods.
• May be required to carry supplies and equipment exceeding 50 pounds.
• Subject to routine and emergency call out rotation outside of standard scheduled working hours.

SCHEDULE

• Monday Friday, 7:00 am 3:30 pm

AFFILIATION

• Member of Public Works Collective Bargaining Unit (UPSEU Local #454)

THE TOWN OF FAIRFIELD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER