(Competitive)
The work involves responsibility for undergoing on-the-job training to become qualified as an operator of a water treatment plant. The incumbent assists in the operation and maintenance of a water plant. This is a trainee position involving responsibility for learning the duties and routines in the operation and maintenance of a water plant, for the purpose of becoming a Water Plant Operator I. Supervision is generally not exercised by this class. Does related work as required.
Performs study and reading assignments in conjunction with a training program.
Learns through observation, theoretical and practical means the techniques and procedures of the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant.
Learns and assists in activating and shutting down pumps.
Learns and assists in the operation of the water system control system.
Learns and assists in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of pumps, valves and related mechanical equipment.
Learns and assists in determining and adjusting the feed rate and dosage of chemicals.
Learns and assists in filling hoppers and solution tanks with chemicals, and washing filters and settling basins.
Learns and assists in making emergency repairs.
Learns and assists in the operation, adjustment and maintenance of pumps, valves, motors, hypochlorinators, chemical feeders, process instrumentation, telemetering controls, communications systems and other water supply system equipment and facilities.
Learns and assists performing chemical tests of water for alkalinity, pH, residual chlorine, fluoride concentration, et al.
Learns and assists in the preparation and maintenance of activity records and reports.
Performs increasingly responsible duties as assigned in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant.
May perform custodial and security duties in and around the plant.
Familiarity with the elementary principles of chemistry and general science.
Ability to learn principles and procedures relating to the operation and maintenance of a water plant.
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
Mechanical aptitude and good general intelligence, good observation.
A desire to learn and progress.
Graduation from high school with a New York State regents diploma with Advanced Designation in a STEM Pathway of either mathematics or science; or,
Graduation from high school with a New York State regents diploma and twelve (12) credit hours in a natural science from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees.
Within one (1) year of employment, trainees must satisfactorily complete an in-plant training program and meet the minimum qualifications for a Water Plant Operator I (Type A Plant) or Water Plant Operator I (Type B Plant).
When required to operate a motor vehicle, possession of a valid New York State Non-CDL or CDL, including any special endorsements, as required for the type of vehicle being operated.
11/2019 Revised