WATER SYSTEMS/TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR SENIOR 61522

05/01/92 H

This is the second class in the Water Systems/Treatment Plant series. Positions in this class operate a plant or combination of plants in support of an agency, institution, or multiple highway rest areas. Duties include regulating the flow of waste solids, performing chemical testing, interpreting lab results on raw and finished water, performing preventive maintenance on plant equipment, and maintaining records and logs on work activities. This class is distinguished from the lower level Water Systems/Treatment Plant Operator by the latter's requirement to operate a rest area plant and perform a variety of custodial and groundskeeping tasks. It is distinguished from the higher level Water Systems/Treatment Plant Supervisor by the latter's responsibility to formally supervise Operators or Operators Senior.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty. Positions in this class collect samples of raw and finished water; perform various lab tests to determine the operating characteristics of the stages in an extended aeration, activated sludge process wastewater plant and the efficiency of the treatment process; and determine correct operational controls. Based on lab test results, this class determines adjustment of flow equalization pumping rates, aeration rates, sludge return rates, sludge wasting, and dosing of chlorine gas for disinfection. Uses standard math formulas to determine test results. Regulates the flow of waste solids and wastewater and observes and reports any variations in operating conditions. Performs all preventive maintenance on plant, piping and fixtures which includes making mechanical and electrical repairs. Other duties include requisitioning materials and replacement parts for repairs, keeping records of operational data; and training and supervising inmate work crews. Positions in this class may also maintain, inspect and clean a pathological incinerator.

Supervision Given: Supervision typically is not a factor; however, positions may provide work direction to Water Systems/Treatment Plant Operators, inmate work crews, or Rest Area Custodians.

Supervision Received: General supervision is received from a Water Systems/Treatment Plant Supervisor, Buildings and Grounds Supervisor, Transportation Maintenance Superintendent, or other trades supervisor.

Scope: Work affects the purity of water supplied to an agency or highway rest area, the proper functioning of the treatment plant, and sanitary conditions at the assigned location.

Impact of Actions: Work impacts the health and safety of individuals who live, visit or work at the institution, rest area or agency. There is minor impact on the maintenance budget.

Personal Contacts: Infrequent external contact with vendors; the public; contractors; and with the Department of Health and Water Control Board regarding plant operations, inspections and lab reports.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants and related chemicals; of applicable Federal and state water control regulations; and of agency procurement procedures.

Skills: Skilled in the use of hand and small mechanical tools.

Abilities: Ability to test and interpret lab results of water samples; to maintain necessary operational logs and records; and to train and/or lead others.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: A Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's License is required.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Level and Type of Experience: Journey level experience operating a Water System/ Wastewater Treatment Plant.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was revised as part of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. It replaces the Water Systems Treatment Operator class, effective May 1, 1992.