Facility Operator

Position Summary

This position is advertised as a Facility Operator II with the option to underfill as a Facility Operator I. The job description for the Facility Operator I is available upon request.

Facility Operator I hourly salary range - $27.93 - $36.63 depending on qualifications
Facility Operator II hourly salary range - $ 30.72 - $40.30 depending on qualifications

Performs lead work in water and sewer distribution and collection equipment and facilities maintenance. The work involves visiting distribution and collection facilities to inspect pumps, instruments, and other equipment and to perform preventative maintenance.

Position Responsibilities / Essential Job Functions

• Assists, leads, and directs Facility Operator I's, assigning daily work locations. Provides input on performance evaluations.
• Meets with Virginia Health Department personnel to assist them in regular inspection of facilities to insure compliance.
• Checks SCADA reports as on a daily basis, noting changes in operations and production, which could signal equipment malfunctions or facility, or in water distribution or sewage collection system. Generates SCADA reports and graphs as needed to assess operation of facilities.
• Seasonally, provides site specific and system-wide sulfide testing to monitor hydrogen sulfide concentrations for odor control reduction.
• Performs special projects including working with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and various contractors and chemical equipment suppliers, and working with consultants testing odor control equipment, corrosion control equipment including data reporting, equipment adjustments, and noting chemical use.
• Monitors and generates reports related to water storage tank turnover and chlorine residuals.
• Informs other personnel about malfunctioning flow monitoring which would skew daily and monthly reports required by VDH.
• Visits each facility as scheduled to determine if all components are operational.
• Orders chemicals, test equipment, chemical feed equipment, pump parts.
• Performs routine and light maintenance by cleaning bar screens, adjusting packing glands, alternating equipment, monitor operational gauges, and chart recorders.
• Provides routine maintenance on odor control facilities.
• Performs routine maintenance checks on power generation equipment.
• Performs routine housekeeping and building maintenance.
• Monitors operation of chemical feed pumps at wells with caustic soda, sodium hypochlorite, blended phosphates, etc. Determines appropriate chemical feed rates to achieve desired water quality.
• Provides chemical, bacteriological sampling services at points-of-entry into water distribution systems.
• Maintains log at each facility noting date of visit and task performed as well as recording operational data such as flows, pressures, equipment runtime, chemical concentrations, and any other pertinent data.
• Checks heating equipment seasonally to ensure freeze protection at appropriate facilities.
• Monitors HVAC systems by changing filters and ensuring ventilation, AC, and heating equipment are working properly.
• Provides troubleshooting service for 160 grinder pump sites and removes and repairs or replaces broken pumps.
• In problem areas or seasonally, provides additional disinfectant to eliminate bacteria discovered in the bacteriological sampling and testing.
• May be deemed essential at any time.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Essential Skills and Experience

Essential Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of the methods and procedures of maintaining water and sewer distribution and collection equipment and facilities; the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the work; the application of SCADA systems for monitoring and control of mechanical systems; the tools, equipment, and materials of the field; English usage, spelling and grammar; computer equipment and software applications related to assignment.
• Ability to oversee, lead and train subordinate staff; plan, assign and review the work of assigned staff; perform water and sewer distribution and collection equipment/facilities maintenance efficiently; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; work cooperatively with others; work independently with little or no supervision; operate a Service Authority vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices; follow established policy and procedures in the performance of duties; understand and carry out oral and written instructions; use the tools, equipment and materials of the field; operate computer equipment and software applications related to assignment.
• High school diploma or GED.
• At least three years of progressively responsible experience in maintaining water and sewer distribution and collection equipment/facilities.
• Or combination of education and experience as described above.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Four or more years of progressively responsible experience in maintaining water and sewer distribution and collection equipment/facilities.

Special Requirements:

• Virginia Waterworks Operator's License, Class V required upon hire and obtainment of a Virginia Waterworks Operator's License, Class III within 12 months of employment.
• Valid Class A Virginia Commercial Drivers License with Tanker endorsement, or acquired 120 days after employment. Must also pass air brakes knowledge test.
• Valid Forklift Operator's Certification or obtains within 90 days of appointment.
• Valid Medical Examiner's Card (DOT Physical) or obtain within 120 days of employment.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license consistent with Service Authority policy requirements.

• Supervises and directs the work of others.

Physical Demands and Work Environment