WATER PLANT OPERATOR II

Monitors water plant operations and computerized control systems, and adjusts plant-operating conditions to provide a safe and adequate treated water supply.

Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from level I or, when filled from the outside, require previous and directly related experience. Level and starting salary will depend upon the successful candidate’s education, knowledge, training, experience, and certifications.

Water Plant Operator II:
Under general supervision, this is the intermediate-level class in the Water Plant Operator series, which requires the appropriate Plant Operator’s certification. Employees work with only occasional instruction or assistance.

Conducts daily inspections and monitors operations of drinking water plant facilities and equipment. Combines various data elements to make necessary changes to achieve optimal water treatment goals and provide safe and adequate treated water supply. Observes variations in operating conditions by interpreting meter, gauge, and graph readings as well as water quality test results. Performs collection of water samples and related laboratory tests. Documents readings and results. Maintains and operates water filters and control valves. Backwashes filters to remove particles trapped during filtration to prevent filter breakthrough or filter clogging. Calculates and maintains correct water flow (MGD) rate. Adjusts pumps and valves for plant flow conditions. Calculates, weighs and sets the chemical feeders for proper dosages. Ensures accuracy of the chemical dosage rates for water treatment requirements. Adjusts and maintains chemical feeders. Inventories, receives and records chemical supplies. Changes chemical cylinders and storage drums. Monitors and records all water storage tanks levels. Operates Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer system; monitors screens and responds to alarms. Removes sludge buildup; drains and cleans premix basins, clarifiers and recycle ponds for maintenance and repair. Assists in the maintenance and replacement of facility equipment, including cleaning, lubricating and oiling pumps, motors and feeders. Performs custodial duties for plant facilities. Responds to and investigates customer questions and complaints regarding perceptions of water quality such as dirty water, taste and odor, no water, low water pressure and frozen pipes. Resolves problems or refers to proper person or department. Tracks incoming calls in daily log. Works a varying schedule and/or shift. May perform emergency dispatch duties for after-hours, weekends and holidays related to utilities emergencies such as water main breaks and sewer line backups. May be required to work overtime. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience:
High school diploma or GED.

Water Plant Operator II:
In addition to the previously listed requirements, two years’ experience performing water purification plant operations. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Licensing/Certification Requirements:
Valid Colorado driver's license with a safe driving record. 

Water Plant Operator II:
In addition to the previously listed requirements, a Sate of Colorado Water Plant Operator’s certification, Class C.

Current Certification Certification Schedule
No Certification “D” level in one (1) year.
“C” level in two (2) years.
“B” level in three (3) years.
“A” level in four (4) years.
“D” Certification “C” level in one (1) year. “B” level in two (2) years.
“A” level in three (3) years.
“C” Certification “B” level in one (1) year.
“A” level in two (2) years.
“B” Certification “A” level in one (1) year.

Applications are used as a screening tool.  Completeness and accuracy are important!

Review and screening of applications/resumes;
Oral Board Examination - Passing Point of 70%;
Background Investigation - acceptable/unacceptable;
Physical Examination (administered by a City-designated physician) - acceptable/unacceptable;
Drug Test (administered by a City-designated physician) - acceptable/unacceptable.