Water Plant Operator

Company: Johnston County
Location: Smithfield
Posted on: January 25, 2023

Job Description:

Description

The Johnston County Public Utilities Department has an immediate opening for a Water Plant Operator. This position is a 12:00 AM (midnight) to 12:00 PM (noon) shift and must be available to work every other weekend and various holidays.

Water treatment plant and system operators treat contaminated water so that it is safe to drink. Pumped from wells, rivers, streams, and reservoirs to water treatment plants, water then undergoes a series of processes that remove or destroy harmful materials and microorganisms. System operators ensure that the purification process goes smoothly and efficiently. To do this, water treatment plant and system operators control high-tech equipment, such as control pumps, valves, and computers that move the water through the numerous treatment processes. Operators are responsible for testing the water at various stages of treatment; interpreting and adjusting meters and gauges; and performing chemical and biological laboratory analysis. Advanced computer technology has provided operators with a valuable tool in monitoring equipment, testing the water for harmful materials, and troubleshooting problems in the treatment process. Water treatment plant and system operators must follow the water pollution standards set by the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. In the Clean Water Act, the federal government strictly controls the discharge of pollutants in the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act sets standards for drinking water. Because new contaminants are added to the prohibitions on a regular basis, operators must be familiar with all federal and local regulations, laws, and standards regarding the quality of drinking water.

Please note: Final applicants are subject to pre-employment drug screen, criminal records and DMV check. A screening will be completed to include state certification status.

* Please document all work history relevant to the position for which you are applying. Determination of qualifying for the position and salary may be based on years of experience listed on the application itself, not in supplemental documents attached. Failure to document complete work history may affect qualification determination and salary. Electronic applications cannot be amended once submitted.

Located in the eastern half of North Carolina and part of the Research Triangle Region, Johnston County is part of the fastest growing region of the state. Johnston County is the fastest growing county in the state with a population of 216,000 residents.

Hiring salary range is commensurate with experience and excellent benefits package available. Benefits include health, dental, vision, retirement,401k, paid holidays, sick leave, and more.

Duties and Responsibilities

Monitors all equipment necessary to regulate the flow of water through

treatment plant processes, including (but not limited to) those related to conventional treatment and management of residuals generated from such processes in order to meet production requirements and drinking water quality standards. Uses a plant supervisory control and data acquisition as an operating tool.

Computes chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feeders. Monitors and controls the water supply, transmission and storage systems through a supervisory control and data acquisition system, and analyzes and acts accordingly to control flow through various transmission and distribution facilities or to take other actions as required.

Performs such records and report functions as maintaining a log of plant operations, test results, maintenance work performed, and unusual operating conditions; works with computer equipment to maintain data base files and generate reports; makes periodic inspections and prepares reports as required. Performs a variety of laboratory tests to determine plant process performance and compliance with water quality regulations. Maintains laboratory equipment in clean condition. Orders operating supplies and unloads chemicals as needed and assists in the safe unloading and storage of chemicals. Takes regular inventories of chemicals and other supplies used during the operation of water facilities. Works with hazardous chemicals relating to water treatment. Receives training and responds to hazardous chemical spill events and District facilities. Makes equipment adjustments, lubrications and minor repairs. Participates in major plant repairs. Learns and receives training in advanced operational and technological developments in the water industry, as well as other training, including safety and environmental compliance.

Maintains the plant and operating equipment and facilities in a clean and orderly condition. Performs routing housekeeping chores inside and outside the plant and conducts regular site safety inspections.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Working knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and cleaning of a water treatment plant. Working knowledge of water treatment principles, methods, and practices. Working knowledge of safety rules, codes, and regulations pertaining to the work. Working knowledge of the methods and precautions in storing and handling chlorine and other hazardous chemicals. Working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic principles, standardized water quality tests, routine facility and equipment maintenance and cleaning methods. Skill in operating water treatment, including automatic control devices and use of computer for data base management. Skill in performing minor maintenance and making operating adjustments to water treatment. Skill in operating plant equipment without immediate or detailed supervision. Ability to recognize unusual, inefficient, or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action. Ability to accurately read and record data from gauges and meters. Ability to read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams. Ability to perform standardized water quality tests and adjust plant equipment accordingly. Ability to compile, evaluate and analyze operational data and information and take or recommend, appropriate actions. Ability to learn advanced processes and control techniques, and complex analysis of water quality.

Desired Education and Experience

High school diploma or its equivalent, plus specialized training (recent acceptable formal courses of instruction) in water treatment and plant operations.

* Please document all work history relevant to the position for which you are applying. Determination of qualifying for the position and salary may be based on years of experience. Failure to document complete work history may affect qualification determination and salary. Electronic applications cannot be amended once submitted.

Keywords: Johnston County, Raleigh , Water Plant Operator, Professions , Smithfield, North Carolina