Chemical Plant Operator jobs in Scranton, PA

Primary Role

Key Accountabilities

• Operate, maintain, control and perform routine repair of plant equipment including preventive maintenance duties.
• Establish, maintain and control flow through the water purification process and into and within the distribution system.
• Maintain process control through the water purification and washwater processes including the establishment, maintenance, calibration and adjustment of chemical feed rates necessary to optimize the process operation.
• Monitor the water purification plant and water distribution system and make operational control adjustments as necessary.
• Maintain all necessary records.
• Perform water quality sampling, testing and analysis to determine compliance with federal, state and PAWC’s standards.
• Loading, unloading, handling, placing into storage and batching water treatment plant chemicals.
• Operate and maintain raw water facilities including reservoir supply, transmission and pumping facilities.
• Perform general maintenance duties at water treatment plant and related facilities and other assigned duties.
• Provide assistance to other company employees, as directed by supervision.
• Perform necessary emergency operating procedures and take proper corrective action for continuous, effective operation of the water purification plant.
• Any other duties which are assigned.

Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of water purification processes, basic scientific concepts, water quality standards and regulations.
• Working knowledge of basic mechanical and automated control systems.
• Ability to obtain Waterworks Operators Certificate (Plant Specific) within one to three years, depending on class.
• Must adhere to company policies regarding mandatory shift coverage when required.
• Must possess a valid PA driver’s license with the ability to pass a motor vehicle check.
• Communicate in an effective manner, both oral and written, with the general public and company personnel. Read and understand instructions, safety rules, etc.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to be able to calculate dosages, surface areas, volumes, weights, measures and algebraic formulas.
• Mechanical ability sufficient to operate pumps, valves, motors and other mechanical equipment related to plant operation and maintenance.
• Must cope with environmental conditions including contact with water, chemicals, fumes, odors and dust as a result of working with and handling potentially hazardous water treatment and laboratory chemicals. Minimum exposure to inclement weather mostly of short duration.
• Must be able to comply with continuing education requirements as needed for Operator certification renewal.
  

Experience/Education

• Previous employment in water treatment, hydrology or related environmental science, civil or environmental engineering, or analytical experience, is preferred.
• Experience with technically advanced computer control systems (SCADA) and advanced coagulant control using zeta meter is preferred.
• High School diploma or state recognized education equivalency certificate required
• Technical college coursework and / or degree in chemistry, environmental sciences, civil or environmental engineering is preferred.
• Successful Completion of the following correspondence course; "Volume 1 - Water Treatment Plant Operation", offered by University of California at Sacramento.
• Waterworks Operator's Certification in appropriate class is desirable.

Other

• Physical fitness- capable of lifting and/or carrying 50 lbs. or more on a frequent basis. Walking up and down stairs. Working in confined areas. Ability to wear a respirator.
• Ability to comply with the Company's attendance policies.
• Ability to respond to 24 / 7 callout.
  

Competencies