This article provides an overview of a job opportunity for a Junior Operator/Plant Operator in Herndon, Virginia, with Fairfax Water. The role involves the operation and maintenance of water treatment plant equipment and facilities on a rotating shift basis. The candidate will be responsible for monitoring equipment performance, conducting laboratory tests, and assisting with the adjustment of chemical feeders and treatment equipment. Additionally, the Junior Operator/Plant Operator will be tasked with general maintenance duties and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Graduation from high school or a GED is required, along with basic computer skills and knowledge of mechanical equipment. The position also requires obtaining the necessary waterworks operator’s licenses within a specified timeframe.
Job Description
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Perform routine operational tasks
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will be responsible for performing routine operational tasks at the water treatment plant. This includes making regular tours of the treatment plant facilities, monitoring the performance of operating equipment, and assessing the effectiveness of the treatment process. Any unusual conditions or issues will be reported to the Lead Operator.
Perform general maintenance tasks
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will also be responsible for general maintenance tasks at the water treatment plant. This includes conducting maintenance on chemical feeders, valves, pumps, and other associated equipment. In addition, they will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the plant facilities, including floors, tools, and work areas.
Monitor equipment performance
Monitoring the performance of operating equipment is a key responsibility of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for collecting water samples and conducting laboratory tests to assess the quality of the water. This includes conducting tests for pH, turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, color, and other related tests at prescribed stages and time intervals in the treatment cycle.
Conduct laboratory tests
In addition to monitoring equipment performance, the Junior Operator/Plant Operator will be responsible for conducting laboratory tests. This includes collecting water samples and conducting tests to assess the quality of the water. The results of these tests will be recorded and analyzed to ensure compliance with water quality standards.
Record and analyze data
Recording and analyzing data is an important task for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for recording information observed and obtained from computers, lab tests, meters, gauges, and other instruments during shift operations. This data will be entered into computer systems to monitor treatment effectiveness and ensure compliance with water quality standards.
Assist with equipment adjustments
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will assist with equipment adjustments under the direction of a Lead Operator. This includes adjusting chemical feeders, start/stop motors, pumps, and other treatment equipment to control the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of water purification. They will also be responsible for backwashing filters as needed.
Maintain inventory of chemicals and materials
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will be responsible for maintaining an inventory of chemicals and materials. This includes unloading and storing incoming shipments of chemicals and other materials, filling chemical hoppers and tanks, and checking chemical feeders. They will also assist with inventory maintenance, ensuring that an adequate supply of chemicals and materials is available.
Perform building maintenance tasks
Building maintenance tasks are also a part of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator’s responsibilities. This includes cleaning floors, tools, and work areas in the treatment plant facilities. They will also be responsible for cleaning and maintaining Fairfax Water vehicles.
Ensure compliance with safety rules
Ensuring compliance with safety rules is a top priority for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for following established operating practices and techniques, safety rules, hazardous materials handling, and accident prevention measures. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to all safety protocols.
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Clear raw water intake systems
Clearing raw water intake systems is an important task for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. This includes clearing leaves, ice, grass, and other materials from the raw water intake systems as necessary. This ensures that the intake systems are free from obstructions and can function properly.
Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required
Applicants for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position must have a high school diploma or GED. This educational requirement is necessary to ensure that candidates have a basic level of academic knowledge and skills.
Knowledge of computer basics
A basic knowledge of computer basics is necessary for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator role. This includes familiarity with computer systems and the ability to enter and retrieve data. This knowledge will be used to record and analyze data related to water treatment processes.
Ability to learn technical processes
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to learn technical processes related to water purification. This includes the accurate reading, interpreting, and recording of instrumentation and laboratory data. This knowledge is essential for ensuring the proper operation of water treatment equipment and facilities.
Ability to inspect machinery and detect flaws
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to inspect machinery and detect flaws and defects in operation. This includes conducting regular inspections of equipment and facilities to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Any issues or defects must be reported to the Lead Operator for necessary repairs.
Ability to understand and follow instructions
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. This is important for ensuring the proper operation of equipment and facilities. They must be able to comprehend and execute instructions provided by supervisors and senior operators.
Effective communication and teamwork skills
Effective communication and teamwork skills are essential for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They must be able to communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and the public. They must also be able to work well as part of a team, collaborating with others to ensure the smooth operation of the water treatment plant.
Valid driver’s license and good driving record
Applicants for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position must possess a valid driver’s license and have a good driving record. This requirement is necessary as the role may involve operating Fairfax Water vehicles and traveling to different locations as part of their duties.
Ability to work overtime on a rotating shift
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to work overtime on a rotating shift. Water treatment plants operate around the clock, and operators may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Flexibility in scheduling is important for this role.
Obtain required waterworks operator’s licenses
As a condition of continued employment, the Junior Operator/Plant Operator must obtain the required waterworks operator’s licenses. They must obtain a Commonwealth of Virginia Class III Waterworks Operator’s license within two years and a Commonwealth of Virginia Class II Waterworks Operator’s license within four years of the date of employment, promotion, or transfer.
Duties and Responsibilities
Perform routine operational tasks
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will perform routine operational tasks involved in the operation of water treatment plant equipment and facilities. This includes making regular and continuous tours of the treatment plant facilities, monitoring the performance of operating equipment, and reporting any unusual conditions to the Lead Operator.
Perform general maintenance tasks
General maintenance tasks are a key responsibility of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for performing maintenance on chemical feeders, valves, pumps, and other associated equipment. This includes conducting regular maintenance to ensure that equipment is in good working order.
Monitor equipment performance
Monitoring the performance of operating equipment is a critical task for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for making regular tours of the treatment plant facilities and assessing the effectiveness of the treatment process. Any unusual conditions or issues will be reported to the Lead Operator.
Conduct laboratory tests
Conducting laboratory tests is an essential part of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator’s role. They will be responsible for collecting water samples and conducting tests to assess the quality of the water. This includes conducting tests for pH, turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, color, and other related tests at prescribed stages and time intervals in the treatment cycle.
Record and analyze data
Recording and analyzing data is a crucial task for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for recording information observed and obtained from computers, lab tests, meters, gauges, and other instruments during shift operations. This data will be entered into computer systems to monitor treatment effectiveness and ensure compliance with water quality standards.
Assist with equipment adjustments
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator will assist with equipment adjustments under the direction of a Lead Operator. This includes adjusting chemical feeders, start/stop motors, pumps, and other treatment equipment to control the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of water purification. They will also be responsible for backwashing filters as needed.
Maintain inventory of chemicals and materials
Maintaining an inventory of chemicals and materials is a key responsibility of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for unloading and storing incoming shipments of chemicals and other materials. Additionally, they will be responsible for filling chemical hoppers and tanks, as well as checking chemical feeders. Inventory maintenance is important to ensure an adequate supply of chemicals and materials.
Perform building maintenance tasks
Building maintenance tasks are also a part of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator’s responsibilities. This includes cleaning floors, tools, and work areas in the treatment plant facilities. They will also be responsible for cleaning and maintaining Fairfax Water vehicles.
Ensure compliance with safety rules
Ensuring compliance with safety rules is a top priority for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. They will be responsible for following established operating practices and techniques, safety rules, hazardous materials handling, and accident prevention measures. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to all safety protocols.
Clear raw water intake systems
Clearing raw water intake systems is an important task for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. This includes clearing leaves, ice, grass, and other materials from the raw water intake systems as necessary. Clearing these materials ensures that the intake systems are free from obstructions and can function properly.
Assist with solids dewatering process
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator may also assist with the solids dewatering process, depending on their plant assignment. This may involve operating and assisting with the dewatering process to remove solids from the water.
Respond to chemical emergencies
Responding to chemical emergencies is a key responsibility of the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. In the event of a chemical emergency, they will be responsible for utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following established protocols to ensure the safety of themselves and others.
Perform other assigned duties
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator may be assigned other duties as needed. This may include tasks such as assisting with maintenance projects, participating in training programs, or supporting other departments within Fairfax Water.
Education and Experience
Graduation from high school or GED
Applicants for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position must have a high school diploma or GED. This educational requirement ensures that candidates have a basic level of academic knowledge and skills.
Knowledge of computer basics
A basic knowledge of computer basics is necessary for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator role. This includes familiarity with computer systems and the ability to enter and retrieve data. This knowledge will be used to record and analyze data related to water treatment processes.
Experience with mechanical equipment and machinery
Experience with mechanical equipment and machinery is desirable for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position. This experience will provide candidates with a foundation of knowledge and skills related to the operation and maintenance of equipment and machinery.
Ability to read and interpret data
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to read and interpret data related to water treatment processes. This includes the ability to understand and analyze data from instruments, meters, gauges, and other monitoring devices.
Experience with water purification processes
Experience with water purification processes is desirable for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator role. This experience will provide candidates with knowledge of the principles and practices of water treatment and purification.
Ability to work in a team environment
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to work well in a team environment. They will be part of an operating team and must be able to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and the public.
Valid driver’s license and good driving record
Applicants for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position must possess a valid driver’s license and have a good driving record. This requirement is necessary as the role may involve operating Fairfax Water vehicles and traveling to different locations as part of their duties.
Obtain required waterworks operator’s licenses
As a condition of continued employment, the Junior Operator/Plant Operator must obtain the required waterworks operator’s licenses. They must obtain a Commonwealth of Virginia Class III Waterworks Operator’s license within two years and a Commonwealth of Virginia Class II Waterworks Operator’s license within four years of the date of employment, promotion, or transfer.
Skills and Abilities
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. of chemicals
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to lift weights of up to 50 lbs. This is necessary for handling chemicals and materials used in the water treatment process.
Ability to climb ladders
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to climb ladders. This is necessary for accessing equipment and facilities at different heights in the treatment plant.
Ability to operate loading equipment
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must have the ability to operate loading equipment, such as a forklift. This skill may be necessary for unloading and storing incoming shipments of chemicals and other materials.
Respiratory physical and fit test required
A respiratory physical and fit test are required for the Junior Operator/Plant Operator. This is necessary to ensure that they are physically able to wear respiratory protective equipment and that the equipment fits properly.
Personal grooming standards for equipment use
The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must maintain personal grooming standards for effective use of equipment. This includes following guidelines for personal hygiene and cleanliness to ensure the proper functioning of equipment and facilities.
Company Overview
Virginia’s largest water utility
Fairfax Water is Virginia’s largest water utility, serving over 1.5 million people in the Northern Virginia communities of Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Alexandria. They are responsible for providing superior drinking water to these communities.
Operating four water treatment plants
Fairfax Water operates four water treatment plants with a combined capacity of 262 million gallons per day. These plants include the Corbalis Treatment Plant, operating on the Potomac River, and the Griffith Treatment Plant on the Occoquan River. These plants ensure the production and distribution of clean and safe drinking water to their service area.
Distributing water through 3,200 miles of mains
Water is distributed throughout Fairfax Water’s service area through nearly 3,200 miles of water mains. These mains ensure that water reaches homes, businesses, and other facilities within the communities they serve.
Producing 148 million gallons of water per day
On average, Fairfax Water produces 148 million gallons of water per day. This production volume allows them to meet the water demand of the communities they serve, providing an essential resource to residents and businesses.
Governed by a ten-member Board of Directors
Fairfax Water is governed by a ten-member Board of Directors. These directors are appointed by the elected Board of Supervisors of Fairfax County and ensure that the water utility operates in the best interests of the communities it serves.
Committed to water quality standards
Fairfax Water is committed to water quality standards. They adhere to established operating practices and techniques to ensure the safety and quality of the water they provide. Compliance with safety rules, hazardous materials handling, and accident prevention measures is a key priority for Fairfax Water.
Benefits
Paid vacation and sick leave
Employees of Fairfax Water receive paid vacation and sick leave. This allows them to take time off for personal and medical reasons, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
Paid holidays
Fairfax Water provides paid holidays to its employees. This includes days such as New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day, among others.
Health insurance
Health insurance is provided to employees of Fairfax Water. This includes coverage for medical, dental, vision, and prescription needs, ensuring that employees have access to necessary healthcare services.
Life insurance
Fairfax Water offers life insurance to its employees. This provides financial protection to employees and their families in the event of unexpected death.
Long-term disability
Long-term disability coverage is provided to employees of Fairfax Water. This coverage ensures that employees have financial protection in the event of a long-term disability that prevents them from working.
Retirement plans
Fairfax Water offers retirement plans to its employees. This includes the Fairfax Water Retirement Plan and a 457 Plan, which is similar to a 401(k) plan. These retirement plans allow employees to save for their future and ensure financial security in retirement.
Tuition reimbursement
Tuition reimbursement is available to employees of Fairfax Water. This benefit allows employees to pursue further education or professional development opportunities while working for the water utility.
Professional development opportunities
Fairfax Water provides professional development opportunities to its employees. This includes training programs, workshops, conferences, and other resources to enhance skills and knowledge in the water industry.
Child/adult care reimbursement
Fairfax Water offers reimbursement for child and adult care expenses. This benefit supports employees who have dependent care needs, allowing them to receive financial assistance for qualified expenses.
Flexible spending accounts
Flexible spending accounts are available to employees of Fairfax Water. These accounts allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Holiday parties and picnics
Fairfax Water hosts holiday parties and picnics for its employees. These events provide opportunities for employees to socialize and celebrate together outside of the regular work environment.
In conclusion, the Junior Operator/Plant Operator position at Fairfax Water is responsible for performing routine operational tasks, general maintenance tasks, and monitoring equipment performance at water treatment plants. They must have a high school diploma or GED, knowledge of computer basics, and the ability to learn technical processes. The role requires effective communication and teamwork skills, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to work overtime on a rotating shift. The Junior Operator/Plant Operator must obtain the required waterworks operator’s licenses and have the ability to lift weights, climb ladders, and operate loading equipment. Fairfax Water is Virginia’s largest water utility, serving over 1.5 million people and producing 148 million gallons of water per day. The water utility is committed to water quality standards and offers a range of benefits to its employees, including paid leave, health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
