WWTP Operator Trainee - 4001Grade - 106Pay Range - $22.86 - $32.60/hr - plus a comprehensive benefits packageGeneral Statement Of DutiesOperates equipment, systems and related facility features at the Wastewater Treatment Plant under close supervision; performs directly related work as required.Distinguishing Features Of The ClassThe principal function of an employee in this class is to train to become a state certified wastewater treatment operator and to learn the operational requirements of the Manchester wastewater treatment facility. The objective is that this classification will give individuals the opportunity to become a fully qualified treatment operator. The work is performed under the supervision and direction of WWTP Operators and the WWTP Manager but some leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgement and initiative.
This class is distinguished from all other operators by serving in a position under close supervision with a responsibility for on-the-job training as to the treatment processes. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective working relationships with other city employees and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in the Wastewater Treatment Plant facility.
The operator trainee will be required to work as the fourth member of an operations crew during the course of the training and will be assigned to work on the night shift at the discretion of the Plant Superintendent.Examples Of Essential WorkStudies wastewater treatment processes and trains in all job functions associated with WWTP Operator functions including the sludge incineratorMixes and adjusts chemical dosesMonitors computer generated information relating to wastewater issues and takes appropriate actions based upon that information.Observes variations in operating conditions and makes equipment and process related adjustmentsNotifies supervisor of any actions taken or makes recommendations for changesMonitors automated process control system operating levelsInspects all equipment and processing areasCollects samples and conducts tests of sewage, sludge and waterPerforms calculations and records data according to established proceduresInterprets results and makes or recommends adjustmentsMaintains a log of plant operationsOperates pumps and other equipment to control flow, sludge digestion and other processesDevelops safe and standard operation procedures for plant equipment activitiesPerforms routine cleaning and minor maintenance of equipment to include assembly, disassembly, and lubrication of equipment using standard mechanics hand toolsOperates safety equipment, including a self-contained breathing apparatus, dust masks and face shield, monitoring equipment and instrumentation and related equipmentAdheres to all safety procedures within the working environmentListens and learns about all processes and equipment within the wastewater systemCommunicates and coordinates regularly with trainer, Foreman, and Chief OperatorProvides guidance and demonstrations to new employees in similar positionsKeeps supervisors informed of work progress, issues, and potential solutionsAttends meetings and training to stay current on relevant practices and developmentsResponds to citizen inquiries courteously and promptlyCoordinates regularly with others to enhance interdepartmental efficiency; andPerforms additional duties as required by the classification.Required Knowledge Skills And AbilitiesSubstantial knowledge of the principles and practices of wastewater and sludge treatment processes and process controlSubstantial knowledge of procedures of sampling and sample testingSubstantial knowledge of automated process control systems and related softwareSubstantial knowledge of operation and maintenance of plant equipmentSubstantial knowledge of safety procedures in working in confined space and around hazardous materials and hazardous areasSome knowledge of Federal Clean Water Act guidelines and other Federal, State and local regulations which affect plant operationsAbility to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical languageAbility to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructionsAbility to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendationsAbility to operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasksAbility to use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions according to written specifications and/or oral instructionsAbility to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlinesAbility and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technologyIntegrity, ingenuity and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.Acceptable Experience And TrainingGraduation from High School or possession of a GED, andZero to two years of experience in related functions orAny equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.Preference will be given to candidates showing proficiency in math and science.Required Special QualificationsValid Driver's License.State of New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification (required to obtain within 18 months of date of hire, failure to obtain the certification within the required time frame will require that the employee be terminated or demoted to an alternative position).Essential Physical AbilitiesSufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate effectively;Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to perform assigned tasks;Sufficient manual dexterity with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to work in confined spaces and around hazardous materials;Sufficient strength and endurance, with or without reasonable accommodation to lift, carry and move objects, through a full range of motion, up to 20 pounds occasionally, 10 pounds frequently and 5 pounds consistently;Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to perform assigned tasks in an outdoor environment.