Wastewater Plant Operator

City of Springfield, TN; Tennessee; On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Springfield, TN is seeking a skilled individual for the operation and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The successful candidate will manage equipment, conduct laboratory testing, maintain safety standards, and ensure effective wastewater treatment processes. This role requires both technical skills and the ability to work both indoors and outdoors under various conditions.

Qualifications

• Graduation from a standard high school or GED required.
• Must obtain Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Certification in 5 years.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring proper functioning of wastewater treatment systems.
• Conducting required laboratory testing.
• Performing regular maintenance and inspections.

Skills

Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes

Ability to conduct laboratory tests

Problem-solving

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Courses in chemistry

Tools

Laboratory and testing equipment

Mechanical tools

Office equipment

Light and heavy equipment

Job description

Purpose of Job
Performs skilled and technical work in the operation and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Essential Job Duties

1. Maintains proper functioning of pumps, motors, blowers, screens, presses, and ultraviolet systems.
2. Conducts laboratory testing as required by state and federal regulations.
3. Fills and decants tanks as needed.
4. Performs sludge dewatering.
5. Performs plant inspections, equipment adjustments, and notifies supervisor of needed repairs.
6. Reads flow meters/chart recorders and logs information.

Other Job Duties

1. Performs routine plant maintenance such as picking up debris around the plant, washing down, painting, cleaning out basins, etc.
2. Performs custodial functions such as sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, cleaning bathrooms, etc.
3. Assists maintenance personnel.
4. Performs groundskeeping duties including mowing, weed eating, spraying weed killer, and hedge trimming.
5. Attends classes and seminars as required.
6. Performs other related work as required.

Primary Job Challenges

1. Maintaining a working knowledge of all facets of wastewater treatment.
2. Staying proficient with daily operations and procedures of the plant.
3. Demonstrating the ability to adjust to various problems or situations that may arise.

Equipment Operated

1. Laboratory and testing equipment, mechanical tools, pumps, motors, water hoses, and various hand and mechanical tools.
2. Standard office equipment such as copier, telephone, personal computer, and associated software.
3. Automobile and/or truck with radio transmitting and receiving capabilities.
4. Light and heavy equipment such as a tractor, mower, weed eater, hedge trimmers, etc.

Key Competencies Required

1. Knowledge of the equipment and machinery used in wastewater treatment and pumping operations.
2. Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions.
3. Knowledge of the city’s policies and procedures.
4. Ability to learn the processes involved in wastewater treatment, including routine chemical tests.
5. Ability to inspect machinery and equipment to detect flaws and defects in operation.
6. Ability to read simple meters and charts accurately.
7. Ability to understand and follow moderately complex written and oral instructions.
8. Ability to write legibly and make accurate arithmetic calculations.
9. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

1. Employee will work both indoors and outdoors and will sit, stand, walk, and lift light and heavy objects (more than 25 pounds).
2. Employee may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, loud noises, fumes, chemicals, and other toxic substances.
3. Employee may also be exposed to potentially hazardous situations.
4. Employee will be subject to “on-call” duty and working holidays.

Qualifications
Education and Experience: Graduation from a standard high school or GED, preferably supplemented by courses in chemistry; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to the required knowledge and abilities.
Required Certifications/Licenses: Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Tennessee. Must pass a drug screen and physical examination based on the essential functions of the job given by the city’s designated physician.
Must obtain a Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Certification within five (5) years of employment.