Wastewater Trainee / Wastewater Operator I

Job Status
Open - open and accepting applications
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GENERAL SUMMARY

Performs entry-level to semi-skilled technical work assisting in the operation, monitoring, maintenance, and repair of the Town's wastewater and water treatment facilities, pump stations, collection system, and related equipment. Employees in this classification learn and perform wastewater treatment processes while working under the supervision of certified operators.

The position is responsible for protecting public health and the environment by helping ensure the wastewater treatment system operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Employees are expected to successfully obtain and maintain Virginia wastewater operator certification and progress through the Town's career ladder.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Utilities Director or designated certified operator.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them if the work is similar, related, or logically assigned.

 

Plant Operations

  • Assist with the operation and monitoring of the wastewater and treatment facilities.

  • Learn treatment processes including biological, mechanical, and chemical systems.

  • Operate pumps, motors, valves, blowers, clarifiers, filters, and other treatment equipment.

  • Monitor SCADA systems and respond appropriately to alarms.

  • Perform daily operational rounds and equipment inspections.

  • Assist with start-up and shutdown procedures of treatment equipment.

Monitoring & Laboratory Testing

  • Collect wastewater and water samples for laboratory testing.

  • Perform routine laboratory analyses including pH, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residuals, solids testing, and other required process testing.

  • Record operational data and laboratory results accurately.

  • Monitor influent and effluent quality and report abnormalities.

  • Assist certified operators with process adjustments.

Maintenance

  • Perform preventative maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, treatment equipment, and collection system components.

  • Lubricate, clean, inspect, and maintain equipment.

  • Assist with troubleshooting equipment failures.

  • Perform minor repairs using hand and power tools.

  • Maintain treatment plant buildings and grounds.

Collection System

  • Assist with inspection and maintenance of wastewater collection lines.

  • Assist with lift station inspections and maintenance.

Regulatory Compliance

  • Maintain operational logs and records.

  • Complete inspection reports.

  • Follow all Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Virginia Department of Health (VDH) regulations.

  • Comply with OSHA, VOSH, confined space, lockout/tagout, trench safety, and other applicable safety regulations.

  • Report safety concerns immediately.

Safety

  • Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Follow all Town safety policies.

  • Participate in required safety meetings and training.

  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Customer Service

  • Respond professionally to questions from residents.

  • Maintain courteous relationships with coworkers and the public.

  • Represent the Town in a professional manner.

Other Duties

  • Participate in emergency response operations, including rotational on call schedule.

  • Assist other Public Works divisions as assigned.

  • Perform related duties as assigned.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

  • Basic mechanical principles

  • Safety procedures and PPE requirements

  • Hand and power tools

  • Basic mathematics

  • Computer systems and SCADA (or ability to learn)

Ability to:

  • Learn waterworks treatment processes

  • Learn Virginia wastewater (water) regulations.

  • Read gauges, meters, blueprints, and operational manuals.

  • Maintain accurate records.

  • Work independently after training.

  • Follow written and verbal instructions.

  • Communicate effectively.

  • Respond calmly during emergencies.

  • Work safely around hazardous materials.

  • Work in all weather conditions.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Wastewater Trainee 

  • High school diploma or GED.

  • No previous wastewater or water experience required.

  • Mechanical aptitude preferred.

  • Experience in construction, utilities, maintenance, public works, or related field is desirable.

 

Wastewater Operator I 

  • High school diploma or GED.

  • Some experience in wastewater treatment, utilities, or mechanical maintenance preferred.

  • Virginia Class IV Wastewater Operator License preferred at hire or ability to obtain within the required timeframe.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

 

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

  • Valid Virginia Driver's License.

  • Must maintain an acceptable driving record.

Certification Requirements:

  • Wastewater Trainee: Must obtain a Virginia Class IV Wastewater Operator License within eighteen (18) months of hire (or within the timeframe established by the Town). 

  • Operator I: Must maintain required Virginia certification and continue progressing toward higher levels of certifications.

Failure to obtain or maintain required certifications may result in removal from the position.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Employee must frequently:

  • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

  • Occasionally lift up to 100 pounds with assistance.

  • Walk long distances.

  • Stand for extended periods.

  • Climb ladders and stairs.

  • Enter confined spaces following OSHA requirements.

  • Bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, and stoop.

  • Work in wet, muddy, and uneven terrain.

  • Distinguish colors used in chemical testing and warning systems.

  • Operate vehicles and equipment safely.

 

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in wastewater/water treatment facilities, lift stations, and outdoor environments. Personal protective equipment is required.

Employees may be exposed to:

  • Wastewater and biosolids

  • Chemicals

  • Mechanical equipment

  • Loud noise 

  • Extreme weather

  • Confined spaces

  • Biological hazards

  • Slippery surfaces

 

Why Join the Town of Appomattox?

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Starting pay at $19.00 hourly
  • Virginia Retirement System (VRS).
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid holidays and generous leave benefits.
  • Ongoing training and certification opportunities.
  • Career ladder with promotional opportunities.
  • Stable career serving your local community.

 

The Town of Appomattox is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a workforce that is committed to public service, teamwork, safety, and professional excellence

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