Operator – Wastewater

Company: Capital Region Water
Job Location: Harrisburg PA, 17104 United States
Job Overview:
This position is responsible to perform skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility on an assigned shift. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Shift Supervisor. Operators with less than one year service will be required to do the same type of work as is listed below but under the direct supervision of a Shift Supervisor or assisted by another Operator.
 
Work is performed at the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility and various pumping stations located in Harrisburg. Work involves the use of stationary and portable pumps, valves, gates, gauges, meters, 12 ft. - 25 ft. ladders, control panels, log sheets, air compressors and motor vehicles such as trucks required for sludge transportation and disposal. Chemicals such as chlorine, polymers, and ferrous sulfate are used on a day-to-day basis. Work also includes the operation of unit processes like thickeners, digesters, clarifies, activated sludge, cogeneration, oxygen distillation, and sludge dewatering. Laboratory analysis is performed on the aforementioned processes to assure its proper operation. Employees are subject to noise and vibration, fumes, odors, toxic conditions, dust, poor ventilation in the work environment, and inclement weather. Safety equipment such as gas detectors, breathing apparatus, harnesses, barricades, tripod, cones, hand-held flags, etc., will be used.
 
Work involves, but is not limited to the following: operates treatment facilities and pumping stations to control the processing of all wastewater and sludges. Reports equipment and process malfunctions and abnormalities along with the day-to-day normal operating data. Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge reading and laboratory test results to determine processing requirements. Measures, prepares, and adds any chemicals needed for the treatment of wastewater and sludges including one-ton and 150 lb. chlorine cylinders and polymers. Occasional lifting and carrying of chemical containers (up to 100 lbs.). Opens and closes gates and valves either manually or automatically (located 25 ft. high), ladder may be required. Starts and stops pumps, engines, and generators. Collects samples throughout the plant and performs laboratory analyses. Maintains a good understanding of all plant processes and makes decision to adjust processes in maintaining within acceptable parameters. Performs custodial, maintenance, and preventative maintenance duties required for normal operations. Operates motor vehicles such as trucks required for sludge transportation and disposal. Starts, monitors, and stops an oxygen distillation system, cogeneration system or any other wastewater treatment processes. Sets up and uses rescue retrieval system weighing up to 200 lbs. (With the aid of two (2) other workers). Remains alert and reacts appropriately to visual and or audio alarms on vehicular equipment, gas detectors, operational controls and rescue retrieval system. Completes all job assignments in an efficient, consistent, and timely manner. Maintains regular and predictable attendance. Reports to work and remains at work in a safe and productive condition. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the general public.
 
Performs other reasonably related duties in equal or lower classifications as assigned by supervisory personnel. Performs work as directed by supervisors in accordance with Article XXX, Job Classifications, Section 1 provision of the Basic Labor Agreement.
 
- Ability to perform manual work requiring dexterity.
- Complete knowledge of processes and equipment.
- Ability to perform all required duties.
- Ability to react promptly and efficiently in emergencies.
- Ability to understand and apply operating techniques.
- Ability to assemble data and prepare clear, concise reports.
- Ability to operate the plant computer.
- Ability to identify and analyze problems and determine remedial action.
- Ability to apply knowledge of wastewater treatment and sludge handling to solve practical problems.
- Ability to comprehend a wide variety of instructions, equipment literature, and technical publications.
- Ability to perform basic arithmetic procedures in standard, practical applications.
- Ability to understand and follow instructions, record information, and request supplies and work materials.
- Ability to prepare accurate, concise reports dealing with plant operation and maintenance and personnel activity.
- Ability to react quickly and appropriately to alarms and hazardous situations.
- Ability to pass a respiratory fit test and use an approved respirator.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Wastewater courses or related education such as Operation of Wastewater Plants Volumes I, II, III, & IV.
- Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
- Valid Pennsylvania Driver's License, Class C.

Salary Range: