Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Mebane, City of (NC); Mebane (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Mebane is seeking a shift operator to manage the Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility during the 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm shift. You will monitor treatment processes, perform routine laboratory testing, collect samples, and maintain records to ensure regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities include responding to alarms, adjusting treatment parameters, and participating in on-call rotations. A NC Grade II certification is preferred, with a two-year timeline to obtain it.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or GED with related technical training is required.
• Some experience in wastewater treatment operations is preferred; related maintenance or lab testing experience is beneficial.
• Must obtain NC Grade II Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification within two years of hire.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor wastewater treatment processes and equipment.
• Conduct facility inspections and operational rounds.
• Monitor SCADA, alarms, and process control equipment.

Skills

Wastewater treatment

SCADA monitoring

Instrumentation

Safety procedures

Troubleshooting

Laboratory testing

Education

High school diploma or GED

Vocational/technical training

Tools

SCADA systems

Laboratory equipment

Job description

General Statement of Duties

This is a second shift position with hours from 3:00pm - 10:00pm.

Performs responsible technical and manual work in the operation, monitoring, maintenance, and control of the City's Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF). Ensures wastewater treatment processes operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with applicable environmental regulations and discharge permit requirements.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class is responsible for operating and monitoring wastewater treatment processes and associated equipment to ensure effective treatment and regulatory compliance. Work includes conducting facility inspections and operational rounds, monitoring SCADA systems, performing routine laboratory testing, collecting wastewater samples, maintaining operational records, adjusting treatment processes, troubleshooting equipment, and performing preventive maintenance.

Employees are expected to exercise sound judgment in responding to changing operational conditions, alarms, equipment malfunctions, and treatment process abnormalities. Employees may be required to make operational decisions in the absence of supervisory personnel and participate in the facility's on-call rotation.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Lead Wastewater Plant Operator, Wastewater Superintendent, or Wastewater Director. This classification differs from the Lead Wastewater Plant Operator and Wastewater Superintendent in having a lower level of responsibility for supervisory duties, operational oversight, and process management.

Work is evaluated based on operational effectiveness, treatment performance, safety practices, accuracy of laboratory results and operational records, equipment maintenance, and compliance with established procedures and regulatory requirements.

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Conducts routine facility inspections and operational rounds to monitor the performance of wastewater treatment processes and equipment.
• Monitors SCADA systems, instrumentation, alarms, and process control equipment.
• Operates and adjusts pumps, motors, blowers, aeration systems, valves, chemical feed systems, and other treatment equipment.
• Monitors biological treatment processes, including biological nutrient removal, and adjusts operating conditions as directed or necessary.
• Collects influent, process, and effluent samples for laboratory analysis.
• Performs routine laboratory testing and records results accurately.
• Observes treatment process conditions and identifies abnormalities that may affect treatment efficiency or permit compliance.
• Responds to equipment alarms, operational emergencies, and abnormal treatment conditions and notifies supervisory personnel as appropriate.
• Performs routine preventive maintenance, equipment inspections, lubrication, and minor repairs.
• Troubleshoots mechanical and operational problems and assists maintenance personnel with equipment repairs.
• Maintains accurate operational logs, laboratory records, maintenance records, and electronic documentation.
• Cleans bar screens, removes screenings and grit, maintains treatment basins, and performs other housekeeping duties associated with facility operations.
• Maintains plant buildings, equipment, grounds, and work areas in a clean, orderly, and safe condition.
• Handles chemicals and wastewater materials in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Participates in safety training, emergency response activities, and operational training.
• Participates in the facility's on-call rotation and responds to operational emergencies as assigned.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of wastewater treatment principles, processes, and operating practices.
• Knowledge of biological wastewater treatment and nutrient removal processes.
• Knowledge of mechanical equipment, pumps, motors, blowers, valves, and instrumentation commonly used in wastewater treatment facilities.
• Knowledge of wastewater sampling, laboratory testing, and operational monitoring procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable wastewater treatment regulations, environmental requirements, and safety practices.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards associated with wastewater treatment operations and appropriate safety precautions.
• Ability to operate, monitor, and adjust wastewater treatment equipment and processes.
• Ability to interpret SCADA information, instrumentation readings, and operational data.
• Ability to recognize abnormal operating conditions and respond appropriately.
• Ability to perform routine laboratory tests, collect samples, and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and operational problems and communicate deficiencies to supervisory or maintenance personnel.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and follow established operating procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions, including technical procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and other personnel.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Physical Requirements

Work in this class requires the exertion of 100 pounds of force or more occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

The employee must possess sufficient visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, perform extensive reading, conduct visual inspections of equipment and small defects, operate machinery, use measurement devices, and assemble parts at close distances.

The employee must be capable of performing physical activities associated with wastewater treatment operations, including walking, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, kneeling, reaching, and working in various positions.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments and may involve exposure to extreme heat, extreme cold, noise, vibration, moving mechanical equipment, electrical hazards, chemicals, raw and treated wastewater, biological hazards, oils, and greases.

Employees may be required to work in confined spaces, below-grade areas, manholes, shafts, narrow passageways, catwalks, and other restricted work environments. Employees must comply with applicable safety procedures and utilize personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection, when required.

Work may involve rotating or assigned shifts, overtime, emergency call-ins, and participation in the facility's on-call rotation.

Education and Experience

Graduation from high school or possession of a GED equivalency supplemented by vocational or technical training in wastewater treatment, mechanics, electronics, chemistry, or a related field.

Some experience in wastewater treatment operations is preferred. Previous experience in mechanical maintenance, laboratory testing, or industrial process operations may be considered beneficial.

Possession of a North Carolina Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification is preferred. Employees must obtain a North Carolina Grade II Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification within two years of hire.

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required wastewater operator certifications.
• Ability to participate in the facility's on-call rotation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required safety training and certifications.