Water Plant Operator

Department: Water Plant

Reports To: Water Plant Manager

FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt

Salary: Operator C: Starting at $25.82/hr.; Operator B: Starting at $28.45/hr.; Operator A: Starting at $30.55/hr.

Nature of Work

Under the supervision of the Plant Manager, operates and monitors Class "A" Reverse Osmosis and lime softening water treatment facilities, requiring knowledge of both treatment processes to monitor and control groundwater treatment operations and ensure the continuous production of safe, high-quality potable water in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. Works collaboratively with Plant Management, Lead Operators, and other treatment plant personnel to support efficient facility operations. Interprets meter and gauge readings, laboratory results, and process data to determine treatment requirements and maintain compliance with applicable state and federal regulations. Work is performed under close supervision with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Exercises judgment in accordance with well-defined policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities 

(The intent of this job description is to provide a summary of tasks performed in this classification. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.)

• Assists in monitoring, adjusting, and recording data from the SCADA system, gauges, meters, control panels, and equipment.
• Ability to understand proper chemical treatment, including lime softening, pressures and flow rates for the wells and distribution system.
• Ensure proper operation and compliance with parameters set forth by: Florida Department of Health (FDOH), Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
• Respond to operational needs, process changes, and equipment concerns identified by Plant Leadership. Assist with corrective actions to maintain proper treatment performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
• Comply with all OSHA safety standards, personal protective equipment, and BSU safety regulations. Completes monthly safety training.
• Provide accurate records, reports, and verbal communication to Plant Leadership and other operations staff in regard to treatment process conditions, equipment activity, equipment status, and operational concerns.
• Consult with and assist Plant Leadership and other treatment plant personnel in completing daily technical operations and administrative tasks for Reverse Osmosis and lime softening water treatment facilities.
• Consults with prior and subsequent shift workers to ascertain any operating problems and to provide information on facility status.
• Extracts samples and performs routine laboratory tests and analyses for internal process control, detecting irregularities, or permit required sampling, i.e., pH level, chlorine residuals, and conductivity.
• Enters all shift data into the computer system, DEP-mandated logbook and/or on checklists.
• Assist with and perform inspections, cleaning, and monitoring of mechanical equipment in Reverse Osmosis and lime softening treatment facilities as directed.
• Assists in performing routine troubleshooting on process equipment.
• Assists loading, unloading, and distributing plant deliveries, to include hazardous materials and chemicals.
• Conducts plant tours as directed.
• Assists with training as needed in proper performance of skilled technical processing tasks.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Water treatment methods and procedures, including reverse osmosis, lime softening, chemical treatment, and related water-quality processes.
• Plant safety precautions, OSHA, and occupational hazards associated with water treatment operations and materials.
• Process control, mechanical and electrical and chemical processes.
• Modern office support functions, office equipment and various computer programs and applications.
• State and Federal operating permits and regulations.
• Laboratory practices, calibration, procedures, and safety.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Use of treatment plant equipment.
• Accurate recordkeeping principles and practices.
• Troubleshooting of plant operational issues.
• Collecting and testing samples.
• Applying safety practices appropriate for dealing with occupational and health hazards encountered in water production and treatment environments.
• Written, verbal, electronic, and visual communications for effective expression and clarity.
• Organization, prioritization, and time management.
• Learn and apply the operational requirements of Reverse Osmosis and lime softening treatment processes.
• Learn and utilize the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor operations, troubleshoot plant issues, make appropriate adjustments, or notify appropriate personnel.
• Learn FDEP and DHS Parameters.  
• Learn to distinguish between normal and abnormal operation of pumps, motors, RO trains, lime softening equipment, and related treatment processes by sight, sound, touch, and smell.
• Learn to inspect, calibrate, and clean mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Learn Standard Operating Procedures for plant.
• Be adaptable to performing under frequent deadlines and/or in response to emergencies.
• Apply sound judgment and interpretation based on acquired knowledge in circumstances where limited standardization exists.
• Read and interpret various technical materials, ranging from moderate to complex terminology, associated with job functions.
• Work with other BSU departments regarding distribution, pressure changes and demands, and anticipate peak demand times.
• Log and record complete and accurate records into computer system, daily log sheets, and FDEP  mandated log books.
• Work at heights and in confined spaces.
• Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with both internal and external contacts.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid Florida driver’s license.
• Minimum of a Florida DEP Class "C" Water Treatment Plant Operator license.

Preferred qualifications:

• Forklift certification.
• Aerial lift certification.