JOB DESCRIPTION
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
WWTP Operator Trainee
Department: WWTP
Pay Grade: 103
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
JOB SUMMARY
Performs routine tasks and learns to operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities, including plant processes, equipment, and instruments. Assists in sampling, testing, and recording data; performs manual labor and maintenance tasks; and learns to monitor and control wastewater treatment processes. Works under close supervision, following established procedures and guidelines. Participates in training and development programs to become a certified wastewater treatment plant operator.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Learn and assist in operating wastewater treatment processes and equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance and repair tasks.
- Collects and records wastewater samples.
- Conducts basic laboratory tests and analysis.
- Assists in monitoring and controlling the treatment process.
- Performs manual labor, housekeeping, and grounds keeping tasks.
- Participates in training and development programs.
- Works under close supervision, following established procedures and guidelines.
- Assists in documenting plant operations, maintenance, and testing results.
- Develops knowledge of wastewater treatment principles, processes, and regulations.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this role.
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or trainer.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Education and Experience:
High School diploma or equivalent. None or minimal experience (entry level position)
Required Licenses or Certifications:
Possession of or ability to readily obtain an appropriate state-certified license for water or wastewater treatment or distribution as appropriate. Possession of a valid State of Georgia driver’s license.
Additional Requirements:
Applicant must have a satisfactory motor vehicle report.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Basic principles of wastewater treatment process
- Familiarity with industry regulations and standards.
- Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures.
- Understanding of plant equipment and instrumentation.
- Basic chemistry and biology concepts.
- Conceptual understanding of hydraulics, mechanics, electrical, I&C, process control, laboratory, and microbiology.
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate equipment.
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Basic laboratory skills and testing procedures.
- Data collection and recording skills.
- Ability to follow instructions and procedures.
- Ability to learn and adapt quickly.
- Physical ability to perform manual labor and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in a variety of weather conditions.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
- Attention to detail
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with software applications
Availability requirements
Given the critical infrastructure role of the facility and the need to maintain essential staffing during events such as severe weather, power outages, or other emergency conditions, employees in this position must be available to work rotating shifts. This position is subject to on-call and call-back requirements, which may include work outside of normal business hours, including days, nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays. The employee must be available to participate in a rotating on-call schedule and may be required to report to duty or remain onsite during emergency operations
PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIROMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is required to walk; sit; use tools; operate controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and listen, observe, or smell. The employee must frequently lift, move, push, pull or carry up to 50 pounds. May occasionally push, pull or move 75 to 100 pounds, with assistance. Must be able to use tools such as breaker bar, pipe wrench, hand truck.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts; in high, precarious places; and in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to hot, cold, wet and/or humid conditions and toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. Must complete vaccinations. The work requires the use of safety devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves
It shall be the responsibility of the City of Commerce Human Resource Department and the WWTP Superintendent to assess the type(s) of reasonable accommodations which may be necessary to allow the individual to perform the essential functions of this position and to provide such necessary reasonable accommodations to a qualified individual with a disability, provided that nothing herein shall be construed to require the provision of reasonable accommodations if doing so will impose an undue hardship on the employing agency or a direct threat to the safety of himself/herself or others.
The City of Commerce has the right to revise this job description at any time. This description does not represent in any way a contract of employment.
Pay: $19.26 - $24.07 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
