Plant Operator I/II

Published on by for Helix Water District

Plant Operator I/II

Helix Water District is seeking a motivated, analytical thinker with excellent communication skills who is committed to excellence to join our team as a Plant Operator I/II. This position performs a wide variety of skilled, journey-level tasks involved in the monitoring, regulation, maintenance and operation of a large, state-of-the-art water treatment plant utilizing an ozone treatment process.  This position works day, evening or night shifts on a rotational basis.

Plant Operator I is the entry-level class and is flexibly staffed with the Plant Operator II classification. Typically, proficiency criteria are met within six to 18 months, depending on an individual's experience. 

Plant Operator I: $33.63 - $42.92/hourly
Plant Operator II: $37.07 - $47.33/hourly
Plus 5% shift differential

Overview of Responsibilities:
Operates a large, state-of-the-art water treatment facility using electronic and computer control systems (supervisory control and data acquisition); interprets gauges, meters, charts and graphs; operates pumps, valves, motors and related equipment.

Inspects plant equipment; performs preventive and predictive maintenance to treatment plant equipment; reports the need for major or specialized repairs to equipment, machinery and electrical and electronic systems to supervisors; assists specialized trades personnel in making major and/or specialized repairs to equipment, machinery and systems.

Coordinates repairs and maintenance with other department sections and contractors to ensure regular and preventive maintenance is scheduled for minimum system impact.

Acknowledges and responds to alarms from treatment plant and distribution system; takes corrective action as required.

Monitors the transmission and distribution system in conjunction with the system operators; advises system operators of potential problems and alarms; coordinates activities with system operators.

Performs calculations to determine proper dosage of chemicals.

Answers telephone inquiries from customers regarding water quality, water composition and related matters.

Performs water quality analysis as assigned, examples include chlorine and ozone residual, turbidity, zeta potential, alkalinity and hardness; performs jar tests; makes calculations based on data analysis.

Prepares bacteriological samples using Colilert or similar methods; read, record and notify analysis results as required.

Performs a variety of custodial and grounds-keeping duties to ensure treatment plant and associated facilities are maintained in a clean, orderly and safe condition, both inside and outside.

May assist with the training of new operators.

Gathers and interprets data from plant processes and special studies for analysis and reports.

Works varied shifts and takes rotation duties in both plant operation and maintenance.
Performs assigned duties as a HAZMAT team member.

Qualifications:
Training and experience equivalent to graduation from high school or GED equivalent, supplemented by college-level course work in biology, chemistry and water treatment technology; and three years of progressively responsible experience in plant operations involving potable water production, treatment, storage and transmission.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements: 
 
A valid state of California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Certificate, Grade 3 (T3).

A valid State Water Resources Control Board Distribution Operator Certification, Grade 2 (D2) is highly desirable.

Possession of or ability to obtain CPR/AED and first aid certification within six months and maintain valid certification thereafter. 

Salary:
Plant Operator I: $33.63—$42.92/hourly  
Plant Operator II: $37.07— $47.32/hourly  
Plus 5% shift differential

Growth Opportunity:
The district has a Plant Operator III ($40.88—$52.18/hourly plus 5% shift differential) job classification which is an advanced journey-level technical classification. This position requires a minimum of two years of Plant Operator experience at the district.

Benefits:
Health Insurance
Medical 100% paid by the district for employee and dependent(s) enrolled in the Kaiser plan. Employees enrolled in Anthem Blue Cross plans contribute $50-$65 per month for dependent coverage for 2022.
Dental 100% paid by the district for employee and 50% for dependent(s).
Retirement
CalPERS retirement formula of 2% @ 62 for PEPRA members and 2.5% @ 55 for classic members. PEPRA members pay 6.25% of salary and classic members pay 8% to CalPERS. The district is also a social security participant.
Employees may participate in an optional 457 plan; the district matches up to $2,500 each calendar year for PEPRA members and up to $1,000 for classic members into a 401a.
Time Off
Paid time off (PTO) starts at 24 days per year.
12 paid holidays per year including 2 floating.
For a detailed listing of the full benefit package, visit the career section of hwd.com.

How to Apply: 
To be considered for the Plant Operator I/II, please complete the online application and supplemental questionnaire and view a complete list of job responsibilities by visiting our career section at hwd.com/careers/.  Resumes are not accepted in lieu of the online application.
 

Information

Industry experience

Seniority: Expert, Engineer, Consultant

Years of experience: 1 to 5 years

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