POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for assisting in the monitoring of the water distribution, pumps, elevated tanks, and water quality. The work of this position also involves the maintenance of the treatment plant grounds and buildings. The purpose of the job is to facilitate the operation of the water treatment system. Successful performance of the position ensures that the county will have a safe drinking water supply. An error in the job could mean a contaminated supply of drinking water.

The nature of the work is routine, but occasionally emergencies will occur in the system that may create some difficulties.

The water treatment facility runs 24 hours a day 365 days a year, shift work, nights and weekends and holidays are all a part of the operator’s schedule.

The Head Operator assigns work in terms of specific instructions and spot-checks completed work, reviewing most or all of the work as it is performed for compliance and accuracy and volume.

The work of the position requires that the incumbent follow state and federal drinking water guidelines. The incumbent adheres to County and Department policies and procedures.

This position requires sitting at a desk, intermittent standing, and stooping, and occasional lifting of objects weighing up to 50 pounds, climbing of ladders and distinguishing between shades of color.

The incumbent may be exposed to machinery with moving parts, irritating chemicals, and noise. The work is performed both indoors and outdoors and includes several different types of settings: an office, laboratory, chemical storeroom, classroom, electrical and mechanical rooms. Some parts of the water plant contain large machinery which are extremely noisy and expose the incumbent to dust, grease and irritating chemicals and require the use of protective masks, goggles and gloves. Incumbent may be exposed to cold, heat or inclement weather.

Contacts are typically with County personnel, water and sewer customers, State and Federal environmental personnel, and vendors.

Ability to obtain Class III Water License within 12 months of finishing the required schooling.

Possession of a high school diploma or GED is required. A valid drivers’ license is required.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
Monitors the water system through the SCADA network and assists in making treatment and flow adjustments as necessary.

Assists in conducting lab testing to determine the chemical composition of the water.

Assists in maintaining all aspects of the treatment and distribution process.

Maintains proper levels for all chemical tanks and containers.

Performs duties of general maintenance around the plant (e.g., grass cutting, housekeeping, painting, etc.).

Acts as dispatcher for Distribution crews, Collection crews, Meter dept, Mechanical dept, Locates, Environmental compliance dept, Waste water dept, Storm water dept, and Ga Power, on weekends, holidays, and after office hours.

Handles calls from the public concerning all aspects of water utility business. This can include but not limited to; water line breaks, dirty water, low pressures, lab requests, billing/account inquiries, and delinquent account cut off.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of basic chemistry.

Skill in basic math.

Skill in oral and written communications.

Ability to read and write.

Skill in the use of maintenance equipment.

DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required and sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position. Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.

Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Ability to obtain Class III Water License within 12 months of finishing the required schooling.

Email: mbartles@columbiacountyga.gov
Fax: (706) 868-3301