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Wastewater O&M Technician
- Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) (Laurel, MD)
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Position Information
Functional TitleWastewater O&M Technician - Laurel
Recruitment Category TypeStandard
Functional CategoryOperations
GradeCL.10
FLSA StatusNon-Exempt
Requisition Number26-0017
Number of Vacancies2
Job Level
Job Code
Job Description Summary
Organization NameParkway WRRF
Reports toSection Manager, Chief Wastewater Plant Operator
Full or Part TimeFull Time
If Part Time how many hours per week
Regular or TemporaryRegular
Position End Date (if temporary)
Work Schedule
+ Rotating Work Shifts
+ Sunday – Saturday 06:30 AM – 3:00 PMORMonday – Friday 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
+ On weekends: 06:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Position LocationLaurel
Position Summary Information
General Summary
TheWastewater Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technicianperforms routine and critical work in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plant equipment and facilities.
Essential Functions
Entry Level:
+ Assists with collecting and analyzing samples of plant processes and receiving waters
+ Assists with operating and monitoring equipment and processes with potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise and radioactive hazards
+ Operates and maintains equipment in facilities for cleaning, lubrication, for items such as centrifuges, incinerators, belt presses, gravity belt thickeners, augers, mixers, etc.
+ Assists with evaluating the performance of mechanical equipment and conveyance systems
+ Interprets conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater”
+ Assists with monitoring biological and chemical treatment processes and makes adjustments as directed
+ Handles material shipments and inventory and locates spare parts from inventory system
+ Assists with overhauling specialty valves or swaps out valves in the plant
+ Utilizes drawings, blueprints, plans, and references materials to locate pumping stations, valves, process equipment, electrical substations, chemical storage, feed facilities and underground piping
+ Climbs into tanks to include 30-foot depths using rigging equipment to lift equipment
+ Assists with conducting general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and cutting for various pipe materials
+ Makes basic repairs for pneumatic and hydraulic control systems on valves and process equipment
+ Uses TEAMS / CMMS to create record data from parameters gathered, work orders and other administrative tasks such as accessing backlog, adding material to work orders, and finding parts in WSSC Water warehouses
+ Operates WSSC Water motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required
+ Maintains records, performs calculations, and composes reports
+ Assists with inspecting motors for heat, noise and vibration and performs motor lubrication and cleaning
+ Calibrates UV sensors, isolates UV reactors, and changes UV lamps and quartz sleeves
+ Uses the computer for data entry and process control
+ Conducts proper operation of wastewater solids handling processes
+ Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Level I:
+ Collects and analyzes samples of plant processes and receiving waters
+ Operates and monitors equipment and processes with potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise and radioactive hazards
+ Operates and maintains equipment in facilities for cleaning, lubrication, for items such as
centrifuges, incinerators, belt presses, gravity belt thickeners, augers, mixers, etc.
+ Evaluates the performance of mechanical equipment and conveyance systems; Interprets conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater”
+ Monitors biological and chemical treatment processes and makes adjustments as directed
+ Handles material shipments and inventory and locates spare parts from inventory system
+ Overhauls specialty valves or swaps out valves in the plant
+ Utilizes drawings, blueprints, plans, and references materials to locate pumping stations, valves, process equipment, electrical substations, chemical storage, feed facilities and underground piping
+ Climbs into tanks to include 30-foot depths using rigging equipment to lift equipment
+ Conducts general plumbing repairs such as compression fitting replacement, pipe joining, and
cutting for various pipe materials
+ Makes basic repairs for pneumatic and hydraulic control systems on valves and process
equipment
+ Uses TEAMS / CMMS to create record data from parameters gathered, work orders and other administrative tasks such as accessing backlog, adding material to work orders, and finding parts in WSSC Water warehouses
+ Operates WSSC Water motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required
+ Maintains records, performs calculations, and composes reports
+ Inspects motors for heat, noise and vibration and performs motor lubrication and cleaning
+ Calibrates UV sensors, isolates UV reactors, and changes UV lamps and quartz sleeves
+ Uses the computer for data entry and process control
+ Conducts proper operation of wastewater solids handling processes
+ Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Level II:
+ Operates and monitors equipment and processes, with potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise and radioactive hazards
+ Operates biological and chemical processes such as Biological BOD removal, Nitrification, Denitrification and Biological Phosphorus removal
+ Operates chemical process for disinfection, Phosphorus removal, coagulation etc.
+ Verifies and reviews plant process data for accuracy and validity
+ Performs lab analysis and interprets data to ensure compliance with facility discharge permit
+ Performs extensive laboratory analysis, interprets data and makes necessary adjustments to processes
+ Troubleshoots mechanical systems such as air compressors, pumping systems, and
flocculation or clarifier systems; evaluates pump performance
+ Operates high and low-pressure steam boilers gas collection and treatment equipment as well as gas flaring systems as needed
+ Replaces and repairs process equipment such as check valves, rotors, chemical feed pumps, air compressors, and sump pumps
+ Maintains records, performs calculations, and composes reports for treatment processes
+ Performs specialty valve operations and repairs and swaps out valves for maintenance and works with contractors or other WSSC Water crews for installation of new valves
+ Operates and troubleshoots wastewater solids handling processes and resolves issues with equipment and overall process system
+ Operates and maintains water softener systems, cranes, boiler feed pumps, centrifuges, air dryers, re-aeration tanks and pneumatic controls
+ Performs senior level shift work and oversees a shift of Wastewater O&M Technicians
+ May be designated to oversee facility operations
+ Climbs into tanks to include 30-foot depths, using rigging equipment to lift equipment
+ Conducts extensive repairs on existing plumbing installations, troubleshoots pump flushing stands, installs control piping on specialty valves, and identifies failures associated with piping
+ Performs straight edge alignment for coupled motor shafts to pump shafts, and replacement of worn shafts with follow-up monitoring for improper alignment
+ Inspects, repairs and maintains pneumatic and hydraulic control systems on valves and process equipment systems
+ Interprets data and makes process adjustments within established guidelines
+ Interprets conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater”
+ Evaluates fault codes on VFDs and troubleshoots motor issues for motor maintenance and proper operation
+ Coordinates removal of preliminary treatment equipment from wastewater treatment processes
+ Calibrates UV sensors, isolates UV reactors, and changes UV lamps and quartz sleeves
+ Operates WSSC Water motor vehicles and other specialized equipment such as forklift and tractor, as required
+ Works with computer for data entry and process control
+ Leads preventive maintenance work for equipment concerning solids handling process
+ Responsible for keeping supervisors informed relative to facility status
+ Uses TEAMS / CMMS to handle administrative tasks and instructing new employees in the computer and data entry program; finishing work orders and reviewing work order backlogs
+ Reviews invoices and daily operation log entries for accuracy and locates O&M manuals in facility
+ Operates, troubleshoots, and maintains multi-hearth incinerators
+ Maintains equipment and facilities including packing pumps and draining and cleaning tanks, using O&M manuals
+ Changes v-belts, pulleys, chain, shaft couplings
+ Orders inventory materials for spare parts such as pump parts and valve parts, and orders stock for treatment chemicals
+ Uses facility drawings and mechanical blueprints to locate underground valves, process piping, and other equipment related to facility to ensure proper operation of all processes
+ Evaluates the performance of mechanical equipment and conveyance systems
+ Operates and maintains remote facilities
+ Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Level III (Internal Applicants Only):
+ Trains Level I and II Technicians in performing job related skills;
+ Interprets conformance of test procedures to “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater”
+ Unloads and changes chlorine tanks; inspects chlorine building; loads and unloads chlorine cylinders; hooks cylinders to main manifold line and checks for leaks;
+ Optimizes plant operations for efficient energy management
+ Performs weekly and monthly preventative maintenance in accordance with established schedule
+ Instructs Level I and II Wastewater O&M Technicians in operating practices and techniques, safety rules and accident prevention measures
+ Develops facility operational procedures that avoid process upsets based on a variety of conditions and threats
+ Delegates work assignments, sets work priorities, follows up and assists supervised personnel
+ Prepares Standard Operating Procedures and may assist in establishing policies and procedures
+ Writes procedures for and participates in the assessment of Level I and Level II skills in the Career Ladder as directed
+ Performs administrative duties to include schedules, reports etc.
+ May be required to act as the Section Manager in his/her absence
+ Collects and analyzes samples of plant processes and receiving waters
+ Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
+ Monitors filter turbidity and backwash
+ Regulates valves and observes flow gauges; performs calculations
+ Maintains records, fills in reports; keeps a daily log of plant operation
+ Starts and stops pumps; lubricates and adjusts pumps and machinery
+ Performs adjustments, repairs, and replacement of conveyance system
+ Makes minor repairs to pumps and purification equipment
+ Overhaul specialty valves or swap out valves in the plant
+ Troubleshoots motors
+ Uses skill and knowledge of safe rigging practices in moving and installing equipment
+ Operates remote facilities
+ Calibrates chemical feed pumps monthly
+ Oversees the effective operations of UV systems and ensures proper maintenance is performed
+ Enters data into computer to update records and uses the computer to aid in monitoring and controlling plant processes
+ Analyzes and prioritizes scheduled tasks for plant operations
+ Responsible for keeping supervisors informed relative to facility status
+ Reviews plans and specifications
+ Plans and leads plant tours for educational events
+ Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Other Functions
Entry Level:
+ May shovel and plow snow
+ Operates and maintains remote facilities
+ Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
+ Performs major housekeeping
+ Responsible for keeping supervisors informed relative to facility status
+ Performs other related duties as required
Level I:
+ May shovel and plow snow
+ Operates and maintains remote facilities
+ Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
+ Performs major housekeeping
+ Responsible for keeping supervisors informed relative to facility status
+ May be designated to be in charge of facility operations once license is obtained
+ Performs other related duties as required
Level II:
+ Instructs Level 1 personnel and leads staffed shifts
+ Shovels and plows snow
+ Performs major cleaning and maintenance of process tanks and equipment
+ Performs major cleaning and flushing of wet wells
+ Cleans and calibrates process control instrumentation components
+ Coordinates disposal of material removed during screening and grit removal process
+ Enters and performs O&M tasks in confined spaces
+ Performs other related duties as assigned
Level III (Internal Applicants Only):
+ Performs major cleaning and maintenance of process tanks and equipment
+ Performs major cleaning and flushing of wet wells
+ Cleans and calibrates process control instrumentation components
+ Coordinates disposal of material removed during screening and grit removal process
+ Coordinates and participates in snow removal process
+ Performs other related duties as required
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Must be able to do the following:
+ Climb ladders and elevated storage tanks, perform scaffolding, work in confined and elevated spaces, and descend underground
+ Lift objects up to 50 pounds
+ Demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and sounds to detect abnormal equipment conditions
+ Visually inspect equipment and processes at anytime of the day or night (contact lenses are not permitted on the job)
+ Effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
+ Work with potential exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, thermal, noise, radioactive hazards and all weather conditions
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Entry Level:
+ Skill in performing routine mathematical calculations and chemical analyses
+ Ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and processes
+ Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
+ Knowledge of basic mathematics skills which include arithmetic functions, area calculations
and estimation
+ Knowledge of state regulations and basic wastewater regulations related to SSOs, overflows and discharge permits
+ Skill in hand tools and power tools use
+ Ability to maintain clear written records of activities and effectively communicate information verbally
+ Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations
+ Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, and effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
+ Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and detect abnormal equipment sounds
+ Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at any time of the day or night (contact lenses not permitted on the job)
+ Ability and willingness to learn processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
+ Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
+ Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and entering plant process data into computer software
Level I:
+ Skill in performing routine mathematical calculations and chemical analyses
+ Ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and processes
+ Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
+ Knowledge of basic mathematics skills which include arithmetic functions, area calculations and estimation
+ Knowledge of state regulations and basic wastewater regulations related to SSOs, overflows and discharge permits
+ Skill in hand tools and power tools use
+ Ability to maintain clear written records of activities and effectively communicate information verbally
+ Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations
+ Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, and effectively utilize appropriate safety equipment and procedures
+ Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and detect abnormal equipment sounds
+ Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at any time of the day or night (contact lenses not permitted on the job
+ Ability and willingness to learn processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
+ Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
+ Basic computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and entering plant process data into computer software
Level II
+ Extensive knowledge of wastewater treatment processes theory and practical application, which include preliminary treatment, primary treatment, secondary treatment, biological treatment, tertiary treatment, disinfection process, and chemical addition
+ Skill in performing routine mathematical calculations and chemical analyses
+ Intermediate mathematics skills and ability to perform arithmetic functions, dimensional analysis and volumetric calculations
+ Ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal conditions of equipment and processes
+ Ability to maintain clear written records of activities and effectively communicate information verbally
+ Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and work in elevated locations
+ Skill in hand tool, power tool, and test equipment use and application
+ Ability to demonstrate normal color perception, hear audible alarms and detect abnormal equipment sounds
+ Ability to visually inspect equipment and processes at any time of the day or night (contact lenses not permitted on the job)
+ Knowledge and understanding of processes and associated sciences (math, chemistry, biology)
+ Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
+ Intermediate computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and plant process data computer software.
Level III (Internal Applicants Only):
+ Extensive knowledge of chemical and biological wastewater treatment, treatment of wastewater processes and process control, including knowledge of chemistry and mathematics
+ Ability to supervise plant technicians
+ Good knowledge of the functions and servicing requirements of mechanical equipment and machinery, including pumps, pump controls, screens, odor control systems and lubrication requirements
+ Ability to interface with process control computers
+ Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation and to detect flaws and defects in operation
+ Ability to read meters, charts and information presented through computer programs accurately
+ Ability to records of shift operations
+ Ability to climb ladders and scaffolding and to descend underground with exposure to the hazards of working in confined spaces
+ Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
+ Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
+ Mechanical skill aptitude.
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
Entry-Level & Level I:
+ High School diploma or equivalent
Level II:
+ High School diploma or equivalent
+ 3+ years experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations
Level III (Internal Applicants Only):
+ High School diploma or equivalent
+ 4+ years experience in water/wastewater/water distribution/wastewater collection as an Operator
Additional Requirements
+ Possession of valid driver’s license with no more than 4 points and the ability to obtain and maintain a WSSC Water driver’s permit
+ Employees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor when WSSC Water declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work
+ This is a 24-hour operation, must be able to work off shifts
Preferences
+ General knowledge of wastewater treatment processes theory and practical application, which include preliminary treatment, primary treatment, secondary treatment, biological treatment, tertiary treatment, disinfection process, and chemical addition
+ Knowledge of the function and servicing of mechanical equipment
+ Knowledge and understanding of drawings, schematics, specifications, and reference materials
+ Possession of a Maryland Class 5A Wastewater License
+ College courses in chemistry or related subjects
Salary$27.25 - $54.31 per hour
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of the Commission to select new employees and to promote current employees without regard to race, sexual orientation, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, or handicap. The Commission does not discriminate against qualified individuals with a disability and will make reasonable accommodation for any disability that does not result in undue hardship for the Commission.
Close Date08/19/2025
Open Until FilledNo
Special Instructions to Applicants
Additional Information
All applicants selected will be subject to drug screening and a background check/verification.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
+ * Do you have a valid driver's license with no more than 4 points and with no restrictions (except eyeglasses/contact lenses)?
+ Yes
+ No
+ * Will you, now or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status?
+ Yes
+ No
+ Are you an eligible veteran of any branch of the armed forces who has received an honorable discharge or Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Military Service, the spouse of an eligible veteran who has a service-connected disability or the surviving spouse of a deceased eligible veteran?
+ Yes
+ No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
+ Resume
Optional Documents
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