Chief Plant Operator - Water Production Plant

City of Lewisville; Lewisville (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Lewisville is seeking a Plant Operator Lead to oversee the operation and maintenance of a large surface water treatment facility. The role involves leading personnel, evaluating performance, and ensuring the plant operates effectively, alongside performing essential laboratory tests and managing water quality standards. Ideal candidates will possess a Grade 'B' certification and a strong background in water treatment.

Qualifications

• 3 years of water treatment surface experience required.
• Knowledge of water purification processes and equipment.
• Ability to perform mechanical repairs and manage personnel.

Responsibilities

• Leads Plant Operators and evaluates their performance.
• Operates and maintains water treatment facilities and equipment.
• Performs laboratory tests to ensure quality processing.

Skills

Basic chemistry and mathematical principles

Water purification equipment processes

Chemical handling

Personnel supervision

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Grade 'B' Certification in Surface Water Production

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Participates in and leads Plant Operators in the performance of activities related to the operation and maintenance of a 20-million gallon/day surface water treatment facility, four treated water pumping, storage and metering facilities, five elevated storage tanks, two raw water intakes and booster stations; leads and evaluates work of Plant Operators; performs various laboratory tests and analysis as required for effective operation of the facility and distribution system; performs other related duties as required.

Starting paybased on Water Certificate of Competency license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality:

• Leads and evaluates performance of Plant operators; recognizes and counsels Plant Operators regarding work performance; deters formal disciplinary action to higher-level supervisor(s).
• Operates and monitors all processing equipment and machinery; maintains computerized operational control of elevated storage tanks, ground storage tanks, inline booster stations, pump stations and metering stations; initiates changes in operation as determined through calculations and the monitoring of processing variables, test procedures and independent judgment of varying factors.
• Maintains quality processing records, including water flows, chemical dosage, laboratory analysis, and various other facility operations.
• Effects routine maintenance (repairs and cleaning) of all buildings/structures, equipment fans and blowers; includes but is not limited to conducting routine inspections, making mechanical repairs/adjustments and overhauling pumps, reduction gear, and variable speed drive units.
• Performs various laboratory tests and analysis required for effective operation of the water treatment facility (Ph/alkalinity, chlorine residual, fluoride residual, turbidity, jar tests, chlorine demand, etc); handles calibration of associated test equipment.
• Responds to and takes appropriate action in relation to hazardous chemical leaks (chlorine, anhydrous ammonia, hydrofluorosilicic acid) which require the use of an oxygen breathing apparatus; assists/rescues co-workers overcome by chemical exposure.
• Provides after-hours and weekend emergency phone response for customers concerning public services situations.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience

• 3 years of water treatment surface experience required.

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of and ability to apply basic chemistry and mathematical principles.
• Knowledge of basic water purification equipment processes, controls, instrumentation and hydraulics.

Ability to:

• Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
• Ability to follow instructions, safety practices and standard operating procedures in performing assigned tasks.
• Ability to be punctual and attend work regularly
• Ability to work effectively with people regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or job type.
• Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to interpret charts, flow diagrams, maintenance manuals, and instructions.
• Ability to perform mechanical repairs, including gas/electric welding.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations.
• Must possess the ability to provide leadership, assign responsibility, and follow through on jobs to completion.
• Ability to distinguish different colors to read and interpret lab equipment and fluids.

Skills:

• Skill in use of personal computer including Microsoft Office, Open Office or similar word processing programs, e-mail and the internet.
• Must possess and exhibit the skills necessary to operate assigned tools and equipment in a safe and proper manner.
• Must possess skills in personnel supervision, training, and in coordinating operations for assigned area of responsibility.

Other Requirements

• Must submit to and pass a criminal background, pre-employment drug test, pre-placement medical examination and job placement assessment (JPA).
• Must possess a valid State of Texas Drivers License Class “C” and good driving record as defined by City policy.
  • An applicant who does not possess a Texas Driver's License or proper class, will be allowed ten (10) working days after a job offer is made to obtain proper licensing.
• Must possess a Grade “B” Certification in Surface Water Production from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
• Must be able to work overtime and shift work as required.

Other Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform heavy manual labor and to work in adverse conditions when required.
• Ability to endure changes in temperature and exposure to dust, fumes, and gases (with assistance of protective equipment) such as from chlorine, ammonia, fluoride, caustic soda, lime, polymers, ferric sulfate, and carbon.
• Ability to climb ladders/steps to heights of up to 150 feet.
• Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment as required.