Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

The Town of Fraser, Colorado, population 1,400, is accepting applications from qualified candidates who would enjoy the opportunity to serve as Plant Operator. Located high in the Rocky Mountains between Winter Park Ski Resort and Rocky Mountain National Park, Fraser (elev. 8550’) illuminates beautiful landscapes and world-class outdoor recreation opportunities that attract visitors from around the world. Fraser is a unique mountain town built on a foundation of rich history and community values that make it such an attractive place to live. As an employee of the Town of Fraser, you will have premier access to a wide assortment of benefits and local knowledge to truly enjoy the amenities offered in the area. Fraser team members approach their work with a sense of pride, camaraderie, teamwork, and humor that make it an excellent place to pursue your next career.

JOB SUMMARY

Assists in the mechanical operation and maintenance of the Joint Facilities Wastewater Treatment Plant, collection system, and all associated equipment in an efficient and reliable manner through skilled mechanical and technical knowledge of those operations. WWTP Operators with no licenses are anticipated to earn their Class D WWTP License within 4-7 months of starting. 

PAY AND BENEFITS

The anticipated hiring range for this non-exempt position is $23 to $33 an hour and is dependent on experience and qualifications. Acquisition of the WWTP License (D-A) will result in an automatic 5% salary increase.

The Town of Fraser offers a robust benefit package that includes health, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, and a 4% matching contribution to the Town’s 401(a) and 457(b) retirement plans.  The Town also offers discounts at the Fraser Valley Metropolitan Recreation Center, and free access to Colorado ski areas.  The successful candidate will also receive a $4,000 signing bonus, up to $5,000 for relocation assistance, and up to $1,000 a month housing assistance for the first 6 months of employment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Inspection, maintenance and/or repair of the treatment plant or collection or associated facilities; inspection and maintenance of any of the related facilities or machinery in those facilities including buildings, pumps, vehicles and equipment.
• Must be able to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems with pumps, controls or other equipment and follow through with corrective action as needed.
• Adherence to maintenance records and schedules and updates those records as directed.
• Performs daily operational checks; responds to emergency and non-emergency situations such as alarm calls and line breaks.
• Performs general janitorial and yard care duties, including snow removal when necessary.
• Collects data and information for reporting and operating purposes and assists with collection and laboratory testing of wastewater samples.
• Logs operational data on computers and maintains written data in manual documents.
• May assist with the training of other employees at the direction of the Plant Superintendent.
• Must have and maintain current knowledge and licensing required to ensure that operations of the plant meet Colorado Department of Health and Federal EPA regulations.
• Must understand requirements related to a safe workplace, including confined space entry requirements.
• Other duties as may be assigned within the Wastewater Treatment Plant Department.

POSITION KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of the wastewater treatment operation (preliminary, primary, secondary and advanced biological treatment and physical and chemical disinfection) and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants and collection systems.
• Mechanical aptitude related to vehicle and equipment repair and maintenance.  Requires the skills for proper use and operation of hand and power tools, equipment and vehicles required to perform job duties.
• Ability to troubleshoot and take corrective actions to solve problems.  Requires an awareness of the dangers of working below grade level (confined spaces) and with chemicals and machinery and the safety procedures to be used in each instance.
• Requires the ability to read and follow written instructions, and within a reasonable time period, be familiar with the plant operations and maintenance manual.
• Ability to work alone and on rotating shifts. Work schedule may include weekends and on-call duties.
• Follows written and oral directions from the Plant Superintendent.
• Must have good communication and organizational skills. 
• Must be self-motivated, work autonomously and with others.
• Must exhibit the desire and ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of one (1) year wastewater treatment plant or collections system maintenance experience or equivalent education.
• Minimum of "D" level wastewater plant operator as Certified by Colorado Plant Operators Certification Board or ability to obtain within 4-7 months from hire date.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado Driver’s License.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND PHYSICAL CONDITIONS: 

• Ability to lift and carry 75 pounds on a routine basis and can perform all physical aspects of the position.
• Ability to perform physical activities requiring walking, sitting, standing, climbing, crawling, bending, stooping, kneeling and reaching.
• Employee must work in plant and laboratory facility where noise, chemicals, bacteria and fumes and strong smells may be present.
• May be exposed to job hazards which include toxic chemicals, chlorine compounds, mechanical and electrical equipment and adverse weather conditions, and must follow safety rules for contact or exposure in such situations.

• For health and safety reasons, must have, or obtain within a reasonable period of time, Hepatitis B immunizations and provide proof thereof.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.