Plant Operator in Training

SUMMARY


Plant Operations Supervisor - Supervises, plans, operates, and monitors Production source of supply, water treatment and residuals handling functions in a manner that is compliant with all Company, State and Federal standards. Continually strives to optimize plant performance within Unit Process Control Parameters. Responsible for the daily operation, planning, and coordination of all associated projects and events that directly involves the transmission of potable water in the distribution system. Ensures optimal supply of pressure and flow throughout the entire service area for customers and fire department usage in a manner that is compliant with all Company, State and Federal standards.

 

Transmission Operations Supervisor - Responsible for ensuring adequate supply is maintained in primary reservoirs and distribution tanks. Monitors and Controls process parameters at Primary Pump Stations, Booster stations, District Bleeder Valves, Distribution tanks and pressure districts. Makes necessary adjustments by Analyzing system data, conditions, and demand to ensure that the operational integrity of the distribution network is maintained. Monitors Water Quality parameters necessary for maintaining drinking water standards in distribution system tanks and remote treatment facilities.

 

Must poses thorough knowledge of the current regulated State and Federal drinking water regulations, plant discharge permits, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems,SPCC plans, Employee Handbook, safety programs, ISO 14001 and 9001 programs, Process Control Plans, Synergen Computerized Maintenance Management System, Kronos time reporting system, OPS WIN data management system, Collective Bargaining Agreement,  Management Agreement obligations and Incentive Measures. Must understand the operation of treatment equipment for each Unit Process throughout the facility including emergency power equipment and plant utility feeds.  Must poses the ability to understand the interrelation between source water demand and Water quality through the treatment facility and the impact to the distribution system. Completes laboratory analyses for process control, performs minor operating maintenance, and inspects mechanical, electrical, and Instrumentation and Control, equipment. Supervises maintenance personnel and issues job assignments and provides oversight to contractors when performing repairs on treatment facilities. Evaluates the performance of maintenance and operations personnel according to job descriptions. Participates in employment decisions and discipline matters involving employees under their supervision. Assist with prioritizing maintenance work request and participates in RCM analysis of operations equipment. Compiles plant operations data into reports. Conducts Job Safety Analysis, Jobsite inspections, and delivers Toolbox safety talks to ensure a safe workforce. Assesses problems with process equipment and determines the criticality for making repairs. Responsible for determining and procuring the necessary resources to ensure the operational integrity of the facility or system. .  Coordinates with the Field Services Department personnel and projects, and addresses customer concerns.

 

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Plant Operations Supervisor


Monitors and controls and/or directs the operation of source of supply equipment and structures, residual handling and water treatment processes according to Process Control parameters through Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems.

Monitors and controls and/or directs the operation of the heating, ventilating, cooling, and dehumidification systems.

Inspects Process Equipment and reports equipment malfunctions by issuing a work request in the Maintenance Management system. Alerts the appropriate personnel of the impact to process control and to the criticality of the malfunction.


Directs or performs the collection and analysis of necessary process samples.

Directs the performance of equipment maintenance as assigned

Supervises the performance of janitorial and grounds keeping duties.

Supervises and directs facility personnel in the repair of treatment equipment.

 

Provides oversight to contractors when performing repairs or projects at facilities.

 

Compiles monthly Operations and Maintenance reports.

 

Provides Relief Operations duty in emergency situations.

 

Analyzes Operational and Maintenance Problems and determines criticality for repair.

 

Determines and procures resources to sustain proper operations.

 

Transmission Operations Supervisor

 

Monitors and controls the transmission of potable water in the distribution system through Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems.

 

Directs Field Services Department personnel regarding distribution system activities that may impact customer water service.

 

Addresses, consults, and reviews the design of water transmission processes and facilities.

 

Pro actively monitors adverse weather information and takes appropriate action to ensure system supply is maintained.

Communicates and coordinates with all electric providers, communication providers, utility providers, law enforcement offices, and fire departments in emergency situations.

 

Addresses customer concerns after normal business hours.

 

Monitors and controls pumping facilities, elevated tanks, and bleeder valves via the SCADA system located at Central Control.

 

Directs operational and maintenance personnel called after normal business hours.

 

Advises the I & C Programmer of all data acquisition parameters, data logging information, alarm statuses, SCADA system software logistics, and all report backs and controls associated with the operation of CCS.

 

Maintains all maintenance records through the CMMS system of activities that impact CCS, which includes pump and valve status, electrical failures, main breaks, communication failures and any anomalies impacting CCS.

 

Communicates and coordinates treatment plant production rates to meet the demands of the distribution system.

 

Recognizes any operational and/or distribution anomalies and directs the appropriate personnel to investigate.

 

Reports any disturbances within the distribution system, water treatment facilities, or pumping facilities to the acting supervisor on duty or the acting supervisor in that region.

 

Coordinates test operations of all emergency equipment.

 

Operates the pumping stations in accordance with the temperature program during the colder months and considers distribution temperatures in minimizing the effects of temperature on main breaks.

 

Ensures that all report and documented data is correct and transmitted in a timely manner.

 

Maintains all records associated with production, precipitation, temperature, dam level, communication, personnel, lock out/tag out, pump status, etc.

 

Supervises the performance of janitorial and grounds keeping duties.

Supervises and directs facility personnel in the repair of process equipment as needed.

 

Communicates regularly with all Plant Operation Supervisors and, Regional Operation Managers and Regional Maintenance Supervisors, to inform, schedule, plan for daily demands, and coordinate resolutions to emergency situations.

 

Communicates with other utilities that impact the operation of IW system.

 

Trains employees as assigned to operate the Central Control Center

 

Provides oversight to contractors when performing repairs or projects at facilities.

 

Provides Relief Operations duty in emergency situations.

 

Analyzes Operational and Maintenance Problems and determines criticality for repair.

 

Determines and procures resources to sustain proper operations.

 

 

 

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Plant Operations Supervisor

 


Operates raw water pumps and screens to ensure proper flow to the treatment plant.

 

Operates sludge removal equipment in basins and residual processing stations.

Communicates with Management responsible for the wells and reservoir flow controls to ensure intake levels and operational parameters are met.

Monitors raw water quality to anticipate necessary chemical treatment.

Supervises or performs physical and chemical tests of raw and treated waters and adjusts chemical applications and dosages based on such findings to maintain water quality in an economical manner.

Records accurately, plant operational data on daily log sheets and enters data in the plant computer.


Maintains the necessary inventory documentation and communicates chemical ordering frequency and deliveries to the Operations Coordinator or Operations Manager.

Oversees correct chemical unloading procedures and ensures that chemical supply drivers adhere to all safety procedures.

Plans, coordinates, and communicates plant projects with all Operations and maintenance personnel.

Works with the Transmission Operation Supervisor to comply with supply demands within the distribution system.

Coordinates treatment supply demands, raw water dam and gate structures with the Operations Manager

Communicates standard operation parameters and anomalies in plant conditions, in the appropriate format, to the Operations Manager and documents in Plant Operations Log.

Implements and coordinates emergency response procedures relative to chemical spill events and chemical releases.

Files appropriate paperwork to document events.

Assigns vacant shifts according to bargaining unit policy and agreements.

Exercises the leadership necessary for the accomplishment of satisfactory work results by delegating assignments and responsibilities and developing cohesiveness within the work environment.

Verifies and reports any questionable chemical, flow, or pressure monitor operation that may cause data reporting errors, or operational discrepancies.

Evaluates, plans, and coordinates continually, the flow and operations of the residual handling facilities.

Batches chemicals, mixers, and valve operations to ensure proper operation of residual treatment system.

Oversees flow discharges in accordance with specified residual disposal agreements.

Reports any emergency discharges that are in violation of any set residual agreements to Operations Manager.

Reports any and all questionable SCADA system set points, alarms, and controls.

Assists I & C Specialist, Operations Manager, and Process Engineer in determining proper SCADA system parameters for effective operations and compliance with all regulatory and safety issues.

 

Ensures facility and property security and controls and monitors access to treatment plant.

 

Other duties may be assigned

 

Transmission Operations Supervisor

 

Participates in the decision making process relative to customer growth, operational parameters and set points, viability of new installations, implementation of system hardware and programming related issues.

 

 

Assembles all pertinent personnel in the event of any catastrophic failure to the distribution system or supply waters.

 

Assists with optimizing water treatment processes and associated processes

 

Acts as supervisor over all operational and maintenance events after normal business hours.

 

Disseminates warnings of large fires, severe weather, civil disturbance disasters, etc., to interested IWC personnel for appropriate action.

 

Acts as Company representative for coordinated efforts during emergencies, with law enforcement agencies, fire departments, government agencies, Civil Defense, and the Red Cross.

 

Communicates standard operation parameters and anomalies in plant conditions, in the appropriate format, to the Regional Manager and documents in Daily Operations Log Book.

 

Exercises the leadership necessary for the accomplishment of satisfactory work results by delegating assignments and responsibilities and developing cohesiveness within the work environment.

Verifies and reports any questionable chemical, flow, or pressure monitor operation that may cause data reporting errors, or operational discrepancies

 

Reports any and all questionable SCADA system set points, alarms, and controls.

Assists I & C Specialist, Regional Manager, and Process Engineer in determining proper SCADA system parameters for effective operations and compliance with all regulatory and safety issues.

 

Ensures facility and property security and monitors access to remote stations.

 

Other duties may be assigned

 

Laboratory Support

 

Performs all functions of Lab Technician II as necessary.

 

Conducts Training for Lab Technician II  employees as required.



SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Plant Operations Supervisor


Carries out management and supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, training, planning, assigning, directing work, appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints, and resolving problems. Routinely Supervises Tech 6, 4, and Group leader positions.

 

Transmission Operations Supervisor

 

Carries out management and supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, training, planning, assigning, directing work, appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints, and resolving problems. Routinely Supervises Electrician 1, Electrician 2, and Tech 4 positions.



QUALIFICATIONS


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Successful candidates for this position are also required to participate in the company’s respiratory protection program


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE and Licensing


High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and one year post high school education (24 credit hours) in maintenance, electrical, or related technical field. Six years of experience in the field of water supply, including experience in water purification operations and maintenance, preferably in the Company or an equivalent experience. Supplemental courses in water analyses and elementary hydraulics equivalent to six months of intensive schooling or applicable equivalent in either job training or study. This position also requires a WT-5 water treatment license from the State of Indiana and must have a valid Indiana driver’s license with a safe driving record in accordance with company policy. The ideal candidate must possess a DSL and AS-O license or obtain one within 18 months of hire.


SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

 

Ability to operate the pumping system with optimum economical consistency while maintaining consistent and reliable pressure to customers.

 

Familiar with the location, the specific operational parameters of all pump stations, reservoirs, storage tanks, wells, bleeder valves, regulating valves, etc.

 


Ability to operate computer and related software.

Knowledge of the functions and operating capabilities of equipment used in the plant and knowledge of the functions and operation of filter units and chemical feed equipment.

Ability to analyze developments in the operation of equipment in order to recommend repairs, replacements, additions, or retirements from service due to obsolescence.

Ability to analyze drastic changes in raw water quality and relate this to appropriate chemical treatment needed to maintain satisfactory quality plant effluent.

Ability to appreciate the confidential nature of Company information and treat it accordingly.

Ability to furnish instructions and interpretations of Company policies, rules and practices.

Knowledge of the safety rules and practices of the Company and the ability to impart the knowledge effectively to others.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

 

Must poses thorough knowledge of the current regulated State and Federal drinking water regulations, plant discharge permits.

 

Ability to multitask and make critical decisions regarding Operation and Maintenance activities.

 

Ability to facilitate external and internal communications.




CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS


Essential: WT 5 - for the State of Indiana and Drivers

Required within 18 months of hire date: ASO, DS-L

Desirable: WT3

PHYSICAL DEMANDS


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequently stands, walks, sits, uses hands to finger, handle or feel, reaches with hands and arms and talks or hears, climbs or balances, stoops, kneels, crouches, or crawls. Occasionally tastes or smells. Close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus are required.
Occasionally needs to wear a respirator or a SCBA tank when chemicals are present, handles water treatment chemicals in heavy bags, drum cylinders, etc.



WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequently works near moving mechanical parts, exposed to outdoor weather conditions, and risk of electrical shock. Occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions (non-weather), fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, works in high and precarious places, and in extreme cold and heat. Moderate noise of business office equipment.