Wastewater Treatment Operator I/II/III

Job Description:

Wastewater Treatment Operator I/II/III

Description

The Position:

Summary:

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under immediate (Wastewater Treatment Operator I) to general (Wastewater Treatment Operator II) supervision, to direction (Wastewater Treatment Operator III) operates, monitors, and maintains a variety of mechanical equipment and systems which regulate the flow and treatment of wastewater for the District’s treatment facilities; performs routine maintenance on treatment plant equipment and grounds; assists in ensuring compliance with applicable regulations for the maintenance and operation of a wastewater treatment facility; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate (Wastewater Treatment Operator I) to general (Wastewater Treatment Operator II) supervision, to direction (Wastewater Treatment Operator III) from assigned supervisory or management staff. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Wastewater Treatment Operator I : This is the entry-level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Operator series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine maintenance, repair, monitoring, and servicing of the District’s wastewater treatment facilities. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and typically exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Wastewater Treatment Operator II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Operator series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the Wastewater Treatment Operator III level in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series, such as independently taking actions necessary for the operation and maintenance of an assigned plant consistent with mandated certifications required to perform such duties.

Wastewater Treatment Operator II I: This is the advanced-level classification in the Wastewater Treatment Operator series . Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in this classification rely on experience and judgment to perform assigned duties including taking actions necessary to operate an assigned treatment plant consistent with the mandated certifications required to do so. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements. This class is distinguished from the Wastewater Superintendent in that the latter is the full supervisory-level class that exercises independent judgment, oversees day-to-day operations and has accountability and ongoing decision-making responsibilities associated with the work.

Positions in the Wastewater Treatment Operator I-II-III class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level and III-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level and II-level, respectively. Progression to the II-level and III-level is dependent on satisfactory work performance, the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications, and management approval for progression to the II-level and III-level.

The Ideal Candidate:

• Will act with integrity and in accordance with the accepted ethical standards of the District and applicable laws and regulations.
• Is an engaging team player, looking out for the common good of the organization as well as seeks to bring new ideas and innovative thinking to the Wastewater Department.
• Is a quick thinker, who displays initiative and creativity in their work, as well as works independently, performing a variety of complex, technical, and problem solving activities.
• Possesses an education level equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by specialized training in wastewater treatment plant operations or a related field.
• Must possess a valid, appropriate California Driver’s License.

Wastewater Treatment OIT :

• Successfully pass the Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate and obtain the Grade I certification, within the first 12 months, as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.

Wastewater Treatment Operator I:

• Must possess 1 year of experience in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater Treatment facility.
• Must possess a valid Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Wastewater Treatment Operator II :

• Must possess 2 years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater Treatment facility.
• Must possess a valid Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Wastewater Treatment Operator III :

• Must possess 3 years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility.
• Must possess a valid Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Typically, a Wastewater Operator may be considered for advancement to the next higher classification level after demonstrating proficiency to perform all the major duties assigned to the class, in addition to meeting other predetermined criteria, as set forth in the job description.

Responsibilities:

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the typical functions of the job.

Positions at the Wastewater Treatment Operator I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

• Inspects treatment plant equipment to ensure its proper functioning, minimize interruptions in the treatment process, and to alleviate costly repairs; reads and monitors meters, gauges, and other control and measuring devices to ensure proper flow and treatment at the District’s treatment facilities.
• Starts, stops, and regulates electric motors, centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, bar screens, grinders, grit collectors, air compressors, engines, chlorinators, chemical feed pumps, dewatering equipment, disinfection equipment, and related equipment by hand or through automatic controls.
• Maintains a shift log of unit operations to include records of meter and gauge readings and reports relative to mechanical repairs and plant operations; enters information into data system.
• Performs routine maintenance of treatment plant equipment, including lubricating equipment and changing belts; performs light construction work; maintains and repairs pipes; assists with collection system construction activities including sewer line breaks.
• Collects samples of wastewater, sludge, recycled water, and receiving waters.
• Determines the amount of chemicals needed; adds chemicals and other substances to the treatment process.
• Performs minor building maintenance, grounds maintenance, cleaning, and custodial duties.
• Assists in ensuring treatment facility operations comply with NPDES and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Assists in maintenance and repair of lake aeration lines; pulls lines and ensures repair and maintenance meet District standards.
• Initiates and submits work orders.
• Receives and records supplies, including equipment, tools, and treatment chemicals; ensures proper storage and handling of all supplies and equipment.
• Reads, understands, and ensures compliance with the District's Safety Manual; reports all accidents, violations, or infractions to supervisor; attends and participates in a variety of training programs, including safety trainings and meetings.
• Operates a variety of hand tools, power tools, and equipment, including a front loader, pressure washer, yard goat operator, and forklift.
• Monitors facility buildings and grounds for safety and security.
• Operates vehicle to travel to various District facilities.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Wastewater Treatment Operator II (in addition to the above duties):

• May perform laboratory tests, interpret results, and notify supervisor of results.
• May make process changes as directed.
• Participates in rotational standby/call-out duty for emergency response on weekends and holidays.

Wastewater Treatment Operator III (in addition to the above duties for the I and II levels):

• Evaluate treatment operations and makes process changes as needed.
• Maintains a log of unit operations to include records of meter and gauge readings and reports relative to mechanical repairs and plant operations; enters data for state and federal discharge monitoring reports; types correspondence, reports, texts and other written material.
• Performs a variety of laboratory tests, including chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, ammonia, nitrate, phosphate, and related chemical tests; interprets results and notifies supervisor of results
• Conducts safety audits for assigned facility; reports all accidents, violations, or infractions to supervisor.

Compensation:

• Medical, dental, vision, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, a life insurance policy equal to two times the annual salary for the employee and a $1,000.00 policy for eligible dependents. Benefits become effective on the first of the month following a 30-day waiting period and the Authority contributes 90% of the cost of such insurance.
• CalPERS Retirement is provided using the 2.7 at age 55 formula for “Classic” Members. Retirement is provided using the 2% at age 62 formula for “New/PEPRA” Members.
• Three deferred compensation plans to which an employee may voluntarily contribute up to $23,500 per year. The Authority does not contribute to these plans.
• Employees accrue vacation at the rate of 3.08 hours per t wo-week pay period f or the first 1 year of employment; 3.38 hours for years 1-2; 4.62 hours for years 3-4; 6.16 hours for years 5-9; 6.47 hours for years 10-12, 6.77 hours for years 13-19, and 7.0 for 20+ years of service.
• Twelve (12) paid holidays per year. Upon employment with WESA for one (1) year, employees also receive one (1) floating holiday annually.
• S ick leave is accrued at a rate of 3.70 hours per bi-weekly pay period for a total of 96.20 hours per year with unlimited accumulation.
  
• Additional benefits available include: 9/80 work schedule, Direct Deposit, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance, Certification Reimbursement Program, Certification Bonus Program, Onsite Wellness Center, and two credit unions.

Our Mission: To manage our natural resources to provide reliable, cost efficient and high quality water and wastewater services for the communities we serve, while promoting conservation, environmental responsibility, educations, community interaction, ethical behavior and recognizing employees as highly valuable assets.

The Water Employee Services Authority: WESA was established as a joint powers authority between the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District and Meeks & Daley Water Company. As a joint powers authority, WESA provides professional water and wastewater services to both agencies. WESA is committed to:

• Professionalism-Demonstrating competency while maintaining a professional demeanor and upholding a reputation for expertise, efficiency, and high quality through delivery of information, services, and products.
• Enthusiasm-Possessing a strong drive for learning, innovation, forward thinking, and the overall desire to do your job well.
• Transparency-Demonstrating high moral standards in principles, intentions and actions; conduct that encourages loyalty, integrity, and trust.
• Inclusiveness-Promoting respect and teamwork through communication and appreciation for all.
• Stewardship-Taking ownership and responsibility for assigned responsibilities, while demonstrating a proactive, positive willingness to serve.

The Application Process: If you are interested in this opportunity, submit a completed WESA employment application online at www.wesawater.com. Resumes and certifications may be included, but will not be accepted in lieu of a completed employment application. This position is open until filled with a first review of applications on Friday, June 20, 2025.

For questions and inquiries, please contact: Jenielle Ollerton: jollerton@evmwd.net or (951) 674-3146 ext. 8244.

Salary:

6,075.75 - 11,259.99