Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I

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Job Details & Benefits

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This position operates the City of North Bend’s Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) including but not limited to the wastewater treatment plant, pump stations, collection system and related equipment.  Work ranges from entry-level (Operator-in-Training) to journeyman-level (Operator I) duties involving monitoring, maintenance, repair, and process control of the POTW, plant, collection system, and equipment.

The Wastewater Operator I / OIT works under the direction of the Lead WWTP Operator and Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager. This position supports and assists the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II and may respond to emergency situations. The employee may also perform Maintenance Worker duties and assist other Public Works divisions as assigned.

The Operator-in-Training classification is intended for employees working toward full Operator I certification. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS include but are not limited to the following:

  • Operates, monitors, and maintains wastewater treatment plant and pump station equipment.
  • Assists in ensuring plant effluent meets or exceeds Washington State Department of Ecology permit requirements.
  • Operates and maintains Odor Control System. Responds to odor complaints and makes necessary adjustments.
  • Inspects machinery and equipment; performs routine maintenance, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs.
  • Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and recommend repair options.
  • Collects samples and assists with laboratory testing and analysis.
  • Maintains accurate operational records, logbooks, and computer databases.
  • Coordinates and safely handles chemical deliveries, transfers, and mixing.
  • Maintains cleanliness, organization, and inventory of tools, equipment, and facilities.
  • Assists with operational planning, maintenance decisions, and work prioritization.
  • Provides support for budgeting, purchasing, coding invoices, and obtaining quotes in accordance with City policy.
  • Performs project related inspections and coordination with contractors as directed.
  • Works collaboratively as part of the Public Works team.
  • Participates in emergency response and after-hours on-call rotations as required.
  • Maintains professional interactions with City staff, elected officials, contractors, vendors, and the public.
  • Order supplies as needed, adhering to City purchasing policy and public bidding requirements.
  • Complies with all federal, state, and local safety regulations and City policies.
  • Interacts in a professional and respectful manner with City staff, elected officials, vendors, contractors, and the public.
  • Trains or assists in training employees and volunteers, as appropriate.
  • Attends work on a regular and dependable basis. Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor. 

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent, and
  • College-level course work in math, science, biology, and wastewater treatment plant operation and maintenance, and
  • Two (2) to three (3) years of progressively responsible, related experience, including at least one (1) in the wastewater field.
  • An equivalent combination of experience and education.

Knowledge of:

  • Washington State laws, regulations, and DOE requirements governing POTWs.
  • Wastewater treatment processes, collection systems, pumping systems, and biosolids handling.
  • Sampling, testing, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation methods.
  • Principles of wastewater process control and regulatory compliance.
  • Supervisory principles and work coordination techniques.
  • Safety regulations and practices applicable to wastewater treatment facilities.
  • Basic mathematics, chemistry, and electrical concepts.
  • City policies, procedures, and recordkeeping requirements. 

Ability to:

  • Communicate, read, write, and understand English at a level necessary for efficient job performance.
  • Interpret technical manuals, engineering drawings, and operational data.
  • Maintain various records and reports concerning the POTW facilities and operational requirements to be in compliance with local, Federal and State requirements.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
  • Work in a positive and professional manner with the public, general contractors, suppliers, and City staff.
  • Use personal computers and standard software (Word, Excel, Outlook); learn specialized software and SCADA systems.
  • Work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and emergency call-outs. 

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Possession of a valid Washington State Wastewater Plant Operator Certification – Group I or OIT or the ability to acquire such certificate within one year of appointment.
  • Valid State of Washington Driver’s License with a good driving record.
  • Possession of a valid State of Washington Class “B” CDL with air brake and tanker endorsements at the time of appointment, or the ability to acquire such license within one year.
  • Valid First Aid/CPR card or the ability to acquire within one year of appointment.

 

Contact Information

If you’re interested in submitting an application, please use the contact information below for more about how to apply.

Employer: City of North Bend
Location: North Bend

Contact: Erin DeBerg
Email: edeberg@northbendwa.gov
Phone: 4258887631
Website: https://northbendwa.gov/jobs.aspx