***OPEN TO INTERNAL CANDIDATES ONLY***

JOB TITLE: Intern Wastewater Plant Operator

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: Supervisor of Facilities & Maintenance 

LOCATION: Springfield Elementary School, Page County Middle School, Page County High School and Grove Hill buildings 

JOB CATEGORY: Classified 

PAY SCALE: Business Operations Clerk

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt 

GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK 

Inspects, monitors, and documents the status of drinking water and wastewater as part of plant operation at three schools and water treatment at one school; performs related tasks as required and directed. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS

The minimum performance expectations include, but are not limited to, the following functions/tasks:

• Collects samples and processes them in a certified laboratory that is governed by a regulatory agency;
• Inspects, monitors, and documents the status of drinking water and wastewater plant operation, including equipment at two plants;
• Ensures efficient operation of plants; maintains established water quality standards by monitoring operations; performs administrative work maintaining facility-specific inventory; ordering items as necessary; initiates work orders, etc.;
• Operates, monitors and records data in the operation of the distribution system including pressures, tank levels, flow rates, and water quality through a computer-based system and makes necessary adjustments at facilities to meet water supply quality and quantity requirements;
• Monitors, operates and tests facility operations including recording flows, pressures, levels, run times, calculates production quantities, records water quality parameters and assesses process performance; operates and maintains chemical feed systems and performs analytical tests and calculations to determine appropriate treatment and feed rates;
• Records and maintains operational and laboratory data including the performance of a variety of chemical testing including but not limited to pH, chlorine residual, and alkalinity, and determines needed adjustments based on results; collects water samples as required by regulatory agencies including assorted chlorine residual, chemical and bacteriological samples as needed; follows up and coordinates with lab on test results;
• Calibrates water analytical instruments through the use of known standards;
• Calculates disinfection doses for water system, and tanks; operates and maintains disinfection equipment;
• Submits monthly and annual permit compliance documentation in a timely manner, including posting any required notifications;
• Submits permit renewal applications in a timely manner;
• Performs other duties as assigned;
• Due to the nature of the work involved, holiday, weekend, overtime and nighttime work may be required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Skill in the use of computer software, especially Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc…), Google Workspace (Gmail, Docs, Sheets, etc…), and web browsers including Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations, including converting units of weights and measures

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education equivalent to graduation from an accredited high school or General Education Development Certificate (GED).

Some experience in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of water production facilities is preferred.

Must possess or be able to obtain the appropriate level of Waterworks Operators License.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 

Must possess, or be able to obtain within 30 days of hire, a valid Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on Page County Public School’s criteria. 

Candidate must possess good moral character and meet background check requirements for employment by a public school system.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS AND NATURE OF WORK CONTACTS 

Duties performed typically in two treatment plants as well as school settings to include: classrooms, kitchens, restrooms, and recreational areas. The work often requires standing, stooping, sitting, kneeling, bending, twisting, climbing, walking, and working in tiring and uncomfortable conditions. The work includes frequently lifting, carrying, and setting up parts and equipment that weigh up to 40 pounds. The work is done inside and outside where dirt, spray, chemicals, fumes, and confined space conditions are present. The operator is also required to work in adverse weather and/or wear protective equipment and clothing. The work is done in a weather temperature range of approximately 0 to 100 degrees; other outdoor exposure includes but is not limited to exposure to biting and stinging insects and other wildlife found in natural areas. Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas using the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for observing plant functions, taking samples, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, noise, and hazards. Regular contact with staff members and administrators is required. 

EVALUATION 

The supervisor of facilities and maintenance, with collaboration from building and central office administrators, will evaluate performance on the ability and effectiveness in carrying out the above responsibilities.

The operator must satisfactorily complete a probationary period and achieve “meets” or higher on the most recent performance evaluation before being considered for advancement.

PAGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, who fully and actively supports equal access for all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information or Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law, and prohibits retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint, or otherwise oppose discrimination.  It is our goal to increase the diversity in our workforce and to provide the best work environment possible. Our senior management team regularly receives and reviews affirmative action reports and has the responsibility to monitor progress, reinforce policies and hold the organization accountable to meet objectives.