OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST I - 40001828

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*THIS POSTING IS SUBJECT TO CLOSE WITHOUT NOTIFICATION*

*THIS POSITION QUALIFIES FOR A $6,000.00 SIGN-ON BONUS TO FULLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES*

*IF THERE ARE NO QUALIFIED APPLICANTS, TRAINEES WILL BE ACCEPTED*

*NOTE: THIS POSITION MAY BE ON A ROTATING SCHEDULE* 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Performs routine skilled and technical work in the operation of sewage treatment, sludge processing and disposal equipment in the County-owned Triangle Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Work is performed under regular supervision of the Utility Supervisor.

For more information about the Utilities Division at Durham County please visit: Durham County Utilities Jobs (dconc.gov)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Monitors wastewater treatment plant operations through direct observation, and through SCADA system.
  
  
• Assist with operating, adjusting, and maintaining equipment at TWWTP facility; monitors plant operations by observing plant processes; monitors chemical feeds; collects and analyzes process control lab samples; and complies with work safety rules and procedures.
  
  
• Adjust valves, gates, and pumps either manually or by remote control to regulate flow.
  
  
• Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets the meter and gauge readings and test results to determine load requirements.
  
  
• Starts, adjusts speed, and stops pumps, brush aerators, mixers, control flow and maximize treatment efficiency through screening, grit removal, anaerobic treatment, anoxic treatment, aerobic treatment, chemical polishing, filtering and disinfection processes.
   
• Maintains records, logs, databases, documentation, and online systems; enters and updates data to document maintenance; reviews and verifies records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  
  
• Completes minor predictive and preventative maintenance work on all plant equipment.
  
  
• Completes laboratory process control testing.
  
  
• Collects sewage samples.
  
  
• Maintains log of operations and records meter and gauge readings.
  
  
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 
  
  

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• General knowledge of the principles, procedures, and techniques used in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities.

• General knowledge of chemical, physical, and bacteriological analyses of wastewater.

• General knowledge of the operation and maintenance of the equipment used in wastewater treatment.

• General knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to wastewater treatment and laboratory analyses.

• Skilled in planning, organizing and prioritizing work.

• Skilled in the use of computers.

• Ability to communicate in oral and written form.

• Ability to read, write and perform basic mathematical calculations.
  
  
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.
  
  
• Six (6) months of experience in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment, laboratory operations, wastewater system inspection, or related experience.

SPECIAL CERTIFCATIONS AND LICENSES:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. 
  
  
• Must possess a Grade I NC Biological Water Pollution Control Operator certification. 

TRAINEE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
 

• Must obtain a Grade I NC Biological Water Pollution Control Operator certification within six months of hire date. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs work that involves standing, walking, and climbing the stairs regularly; use hands and fingers, to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; The employee must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken. 

• Exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibrations.
  
  
• Involves working around toxic and hazardous chemicals.
  
  
• Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions.
  
  
• Exposed to fumes and airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals.
   
• Risk of electrical shock.

STANDARD CLAUSES:

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Durham County.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS:

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures, and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed, and employees are properly trained.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.