Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee (BC-05)

Receives training and performs in a trainee capacity by assisting higher level operators in the operation, maintenance and repair of wastewater treatment plant and tributary pumping plants, equipment and processes; and performs other related duties as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This class represents the entry level class for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Series. Under the immediate supervision of higher level operators, the work involves formal and informal training to develop the required skills, knowledge and abilities necessary in the operation, maintenance and repair of a wastewater treatment plant and tributary pumping plant processes and equipment. This class differs from that of Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator in that the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee represents the entry level trainee class in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Series; whereas, the Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator is an unlicensed operator class responsible to assist and/or participate in the operation and maintenance of the various equipment and unit process at a wastewater treatment plant for developmental purposes to prepare for eventual operator certification. The following are examples of duties and are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in this class. The omission of specific duties statements does not preclude management from assigning such duties if such duties are a logical assignment for the position. Participates in classroom and on-the-job orientation and training sessions to gain familiarity and practical experience in the operation, maintenance and repair of wastewater treatment plant and tributary pumping plant processes and equipment; at a wastewater treatment plant or tributary pumping plant, learns to operate and maintain pumps valves, screens clarifiers, mixers, digestors, aerators, chlorinators, sludge collectors and to monitor the operation of equipment; receives training to identify and report malfunctioning equipment; performs routine plant inspections; participates in draining, cleaning and painting plant equipment; reads and records gauges and meters; takes periodic laboratory samples and performs routine sample analysis; operates a truck to haul sludge; may participate in the installation, over­ haul and repair of treatment plant equipment; operates more complex machinery on a training and relief basis.

Training and Experience:

A combination of education and experience substantially equivalent to graduation from high school with course work in chemistry or biology.

License Requirements:

Possession of a valid Hawaii State driver's license (Type 3).

Knowledge of:

basic mechanic hand and power tools; arithmetic; general science; fundamental mechanical concepts; hazards and safety practices involved in working around high voltage equipment and moving machinery.

Ability to:

learn the operation, maintenance and repair of wastewater treatment plant equipment such as pumps , motors, clarifiers, mixers, digesters, aerators, valves, meters, gauges, etc., read meters and gauges, record readings, and maintain operating records; read and comprehend written materials; use common hand and power tools; work with dexterity and safety; understand and follow oral and written instructions; work harmoniously with others; handle weights and loads.

Health and Physical Condition:

Persons seeking appointment to positions in this class must meet the health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper for the performance of the duties.

Physical Effort Grouping:

Heavy Special Working Conditions:

Exposure to hazards, filthy and obnoxious conditions; may also be subject to shift, weekend and holiday work as required.