Search #: 499413
Work type: Full-time
Location: UConn Storrs
Categories: Facilities
Water Pollution Control Operator 1
This position is a permanent, full‑time role within UConn’s Facilities Operations Department. The operator will manage and maintain the Class IV Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) and associated lift stations located on the Storrs Campus, including water reclamation activities.
Salary and Benefits
Salary Range: $69,885.00 – $89,849.00 Yearly. New hires to state service begin at the minimum of the pay plan.
- Excellent and affordable healthcare options
- Full benefits package including medical and dental insurance – details available at https://hr.uconn.edu/employee-benefits-overview/
- Employee retirement benefits (SERS Retirement plan) – details at https://hr.uconn.edu/retirement/
- Competitive salary and outstanding benefits, with additional information at https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/
Work Schedule
1st Shift 40 hours/week. The specific schedule will be 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a paid half‑hour lunch. Work may be scheduled as either Sunday–Thursday or Tuesday–Saturday. Weekend differential may apply.
Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain equipment such as grit chambers, step screens, bar racks, grinders, pumps, chemical dosing systems, dewatering systems, clarifier tanks, and chlorination chambers.
- Perform routine repairs to or replace equipment including valves, motors, pipes, pumps, and other machinery.
- Conduct biological and chemical analyses of the water and record the results.
- Record meter and gauge readings and interpret operating characteristics.
- Prepare operational records and reports.
- Assist with fats, oils and grease (FOG) inspection and removal program.
- Adhere to safety and cleanliness standards.
- Maintain the building and grounds of the facility and lift stations.
- Respond to and resolve Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) alarms.
- Perform related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skill & Ability
- Knowledge of the operations of a large multi‑treatment water pollution control facility including water reclamation.
- Knowledge of repair and maintenance on pumps, tanks, and other equipment used in wastewater and water reclamation treatment.
- Knowledge of sampling procedures used in laboratory analyses of wastewater and reclaimed water.
- Interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Ability to perform required chemical tests and keep operational records.
- Ability to utilize SCADA system, the water data management program, and other computer software.
- Mechanical ability.
Minimum Qualifications – General Experience
Experience in the operation and maintenance of a Class I, or higher, biological wastewater treatment facility, including skilled mechanical maintenance duties and/or laboratory analysis of wastewater.
Special Requirements
- Must possess a Class I Wastewater Treatment Facility Operator Certificate issued by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) at the time of hire.
- Must retain appropriate current certifications, licenses or permits required by DEEP regulations.
- Must have specific education and/or experience to meet certification requirements.
- Must have a current motor vehicle operator license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supervising employees such as student labor apprentices, skilled trades apprentices, or wastewater trainees.
- Verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience using an i‑Pad, laptop or similar technology.
- Ability to use technology to obtain information, solve problems, and record data.
- Proficiency with MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, or similar programs.
- Educational courses or training related to environmental, chemistry, or mechanical fields.
- Mathematical skills.
- Current State of Connecticut P‑1 or P‑2 license.
Physical Requirements
- Physical strength, stamina, agility, visual and auditory acuity; able to walk up and down stairs and climb ladders independently.
- Ability to lift, carry and push up to 75 lbs.
- Ability to use ladders, scaffolding, high‑lifts and enter confined spaces.
- Capability to perform inspections, repairs and maintenance on equipment and to use tools; wearing personal protective equipment when required.
- Physical examination may be required.
Working Conditions
Exposure to extreme weather, wastewater, loud machinery and chemicals; may be required to lift moderately heavy weights and work in uncomfortable positions.
Terms and Conditions of Employment
Employment contingent upon successful completion of a pre‑employment criminal background check and pre‑employment physical exam.
EEO Statement
All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment. The success of the University depends on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives in a respectful manner. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.