Water Treatment Plant Operator

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

The Water Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, maintaining, and optimizing water treatment processes to ensure the continuous production of safe, high-quality drinking water in compliance with all federal, state, local, and Utility District requirements. The operator performs process control activities, laboratory testing, equipment monitoring, maintenance support, recordkeeping, troubleshooting, and emergency response duties necessary to maintain reliable treatment plant operations. Complies with all policies outlined in the employee handbook.

NATURE OF WORK

Performs assigned duties under the guidance of experienced operators and plant leadership, including but not limited to:

• Operate and monitor water treatment plant processes and equipment.
• Perform water quality sampling, laboratory testing, analysis, and process monitoring.
• Interpret laboratory results, SCADA data, and operational trends.
• Monitor and adjust treatment processes and chemical feed systems.
• Maintain accurate operational records, logs, reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Operate and utilize SCADA systems and computerized process control systems.
• Troubleshoot treatment, instrumentation, equipment, and process-related issues.
• Perform minor maintenance on treatment plant equipment, instrumentation, analyzers, and laboratory equipment.
• Assist with preventive maintenance activities, plant shutdowns, startups, and operational projects.
• Maintain chemical inventories and supply records.
• Clean and maintain treatment facilities and process equipment.
• Participate in emergency response activities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED
• State of TN Water Treatment Operator Grade III Certificate of Competency or ability to obtain within 18 months.
• Valid Class D driver license and safe driving record.
• Ability to learn water treatment processes, plant equipment, laboratory procedures, and regulatory requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Three-years of experience in water treatment plant and operational logic.
• State of TN Water Treatment Operator Grade IV Certificate of Competency
• Experience operating tools, equipment, or machinery.
• College coursework in environmental science, biology, chemistry, engineering technology, utility management, or a related field.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and equipment.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn operational software systems.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to understand written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to learn treatment plant processes and equipment.
• Ability to perform basic maintenance and housekeeping duties.
• Ability to distinguish between shades of color for water quality and laboratory assessments.

ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Demonstrates initiative and willingness to learn.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and a commitment to safe work practices.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, contractors, and the public.
• Ability to follow established procedures and instructions.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks following appropriate training.
• Maintains a high level of reliability, attendance, and accountability.
• Demonstrates attention to detail and accuracy in work performance.
• Ability to comply with OSHA regulations and all applicable safety requirements.
• Ability to work in varied weather and environmental conditions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:

• Intermittent sitting and standing.
• Walking on uneven surfaces.
• Stooping.
• Bending.
• Kneeling.
• Crouching.
• Climbing ladders and entering/exiting vehicles.
• Frequent lifting of materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Safe use of tools and specialized equipment, as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed indoors within a water treatment facility with periodic work outdoors and in field environments. Employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions, dust, dirt, grease, chemicals, moderate noise levels, and moving mechanical equipment. Appropriate personal protective equipment shall be utilized as required.