Lead Water Plant Operator

This position is responsible for performing skilled duties in the operation of a water treatment plant. Duties involve routine inspection of plant processes and equipment.  Works under general supervision.  Responsible for supervising one or more plant operators on special jobs or assignments as directed.

1. Monitors plant operations by observation, instrumentation and laboratory test results and makes process adjustments to predetermined parameters. 
2. Contacts Water Plant Supervisor concerning problems with plant operations when needed.
3. Takes samples at various operating points in the plant process and interprets data.
4. Monitors condition of mechanical equipment and notifies appropriate personnel of needed repairs or any operational problems.
5. Observes all safety guidelines as initiated by the NTMWD.
6. May be responsible for plant security during evening shifts.
7. Required to place equipment into operation or take equipment out of operation.
8. Responsible for the safe handling and unloading of various chemicals.
9. May be responsible for responding to various emergency situations as directed by supervisor.
10. Required to maintain thorough written process logs and records.
11. Runs various lab tests.
12. Capable of calculating water treatment chemical dose and flow rates
13. Able to run and interpret jar tests and resulting data. 

1. Must possess the ability to supervise others.
2. Must possess the ability to communicate and document daily activities to ensure proper plant operation.
3. Must be able to run lab tests and interpret results and equipment malfunction.

1. Five years of experience in water treatment.  (Credit given for college semesters.)
2. Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (or predecessor agency) Class C Water Operator's Certificate of Competency required.
3. Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
4. Requires a valid Texas Driver’s License.

The duties and responsibilities are generally performed in a water treatment environment. The position involves sitting (up to 6 hours per day), frequent standing, frequent walking, light to heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.), light carrying, frequent bending and reaching, keyboarding, and telephone operation. It often requires an irregular work schedule and overtime hours. Specific physical conditions require frequent work with chemicals, tools, machinery, moving mechanical parts, etc.

The duties and responsibilities are performed both indoors and outdoors. Moderate to heavy exposure to sun, dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, biological hazards, rain, temperature and noise extremes, hazardous materials and chemicals, machinery, moving mechanical parts, vibrations, electric currents, traffic hazards, and water hazards are common. Performs and reviews work at locations that involve hazardous environments requiring the physical ability to wear and work using personal protective equipment (PPE) that meet or exceed guidelines such as established by OSHA which may result in some physical discomfort due to temperature, dust, odors, chemicals and noise. The position may require work in confined spaces, on ladders and rooftops, and in adverse weather conditions with appropriate training.

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to pass annual medical evaluation and receive certification to utilize respiratory protection equipment, where required by work assignment post-employment offer. Must meet shaving requirements for respiratory fit test at all times. 
• Must be able to pass hazardous materials medical examination and test for post-employment offer (applicable only to those on Hazardous Response Team).    
• Perform functions requiring manual dexterity and precision movements, continuous or repetitive arm and hand movements, grasping movements, and occasional forceful exertion.
• Perceive/discriminate colors or shades of colors, sounds, odor, depth and visual cues or signals.
• Possess visual and muscular dexterity to operate a motor vehicle (including while towing portable equipment), equipment, hand tools, and a computer.