Water Pollution Control Plant Student Operator

City of Ames; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 29,055,000 - 33,283,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Ames Water and Pollution Control Department is seeking a WPC Plant Student Operator. The role involves operating the Water and Pollution Control plant and pumping stations to support Ames, Iowa State University, and the City of Kelley, under supervision.

Shifts include weekends with alternating weeks, and several day/night blocks. Compensation starts at $21.91/hour with progression to $23.00, $24.16, or higher with licenses; position is under 20 hours/week, no benefits.

Qualifications

• Required: Current college student.
• Preferred: Student enrolled in a program related to water environmental treatment, wastewater treatment, engineering, environmental science, or chemistry; OR one year of experience with mechanical equipment; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Extensive training will be provided; knowledge of computer systems; knowledge of the principles of hydraulics, chemistry, and electricity; ability to read and interpret data; ability to make mathematical computations; ability to work alone on an operating shift and take responsibility for previously outlined procedures; ability to follow standard operating procedures; ability to act quickly and calmly in emergency situations on an individual basis; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens, supervisors, co-workers and other City employees.

Skills

Data interpretation

Math computations

Computer literacy

Emergency response

Interpersonal skills

Education

Current college student

Program related to water/environmental treatment, engineering, environmental science, or chemistry (preferred)

Job description

The City of Ames Water and Pollution Control Department has an exciting opportunity for WPC Plant Student Operators to provide support to the WPC Division!

Under close supervision, performs work involving primary responsibility for the operation of the Water and Pollution Control plant, and pumping stations to treat the domestic and industrial wastewater needs for the Ames community, Iowa State University and the City of Kelley.

The WPC Student Operator will typically work 16-19 hours every week throughout the calendar year. After the training period, the WPC Plant Student Operator will work independently on their assigned shifts.

This position works primarily two weekends on and two weekends off, at which time you will work 2-3 days during the week for two weeks which may include holidays. Typical weekend shifts include 2pm-10pm and 10pm-6am, and may vary due to shifts needing to be filled. Please note that weekend hours may be subject to change.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for practical experience in engineering, chemistry, and environmental science fields.

Due to the amount of training provided to the WPC Plant Student Operators, we request all applicants be committed to employment with the WPC Plant for a minimum of 12 months.

Compensation Steps

No License: Starting Rate of Pay: $21.91/hour

12 Months of Service: $23.00/hour

24 Months of Service: $24.16/hour

With Grade I Wastewater Operator License: Starting Rate of Pay: $23.00/hour

12 Months of Service: $24.16/hour

24 Months of Service: $25.36/hour

This position is an ongoing, part-time, less than 20 hours per week position that is not benefit or paid leave eligible.

Education and Experience

• Required: Current college student.
• Preferred: Student enrolled in a program related to the field of water environmental treatment, wastewater treatment, engineering, environmental science, or chemistry; OR one year of experience with mechanical equipment; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses and Certificates

Valid driver's license required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Necessary to Perform Essential Functions

Extensive training will be provided; knowledge of computer systems; knowledge of the principles of hydraulics, chemistry, and electricity; ability to read and interpret data; ability to make mathematical computations; ability to work alone on an operating shift and take responsibility for previously outlined procedures; ability to follow standard operating procedures; ability to act quickly and calmly in emergency situations on an individual basis; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens, supervisors, co-workers and other City employees.

Physical and Environmental Characteristics

Examples of Equipment Essential to the Job

Computers, software, and peripheral equipment, SCADA equipment, calculator, intercom, two-way radio, variety of printed materials, lab equipment, scale, cleaning chemicals, chemical feed equipment, emergency equipment, switches, pipes and valves; electrical equipment; safety equipment including masks, and gloves; maintenance vehicles.

Required Physical Activities

Climbing, balancing, kneeling, stooping, crawling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

General Physical Characteristics

The work involves sitting 40 percent of the time, standing (but not walking) five percent of the time; standing and walking 55 percent of the time. Requires exertion of up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, to move objects.

Vision Requirements

The minimum standard for use with those whose work deals largely with preparing and analyzing data and figures, accounting, computer terminal, extensive reading, operation of machines (including inspection), and use of measurement devices.

Environmental Conditions

The work is performed inside and/or outside and includes being exposed to mechanical and electrical hazards, chemical hazards, atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system or skin, oils, and working in isolation.

Selection Process

The selection process consists of an evaluation of education, experience, and supplemental questions, a panel interview, and completion of a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check and motor vehicle record check. All candidates will be notified by email of their application status.

NOTE: Preference may be given to applicants possessing qualifications above the minimum.