Water Plant Operator Trainee

Under the direct supervision of the Chief Operator and/or Water Plant Director, this entry-level position assists in the operation and basic maintenance of the City’s Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Treatment Plant to ensure the production of safe and reliable drinking water in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations. This position participates in structured, on-the-job training to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to operate low-pressure membrane treatment systems, chemical feed systems, and associated plant infrastructure. This position does not function independently and performs duties under close supervision until required licensure and competency standards are achieved. Evening, weekend, holiday, shift work, and participation in on-call rotation may be required as training progresses. - Assists licensed Water Plant Operators in monitoring plant operations through SCADA systems and field inspections. - Collects water samples and assists with routine laboratory testing, including chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, conductivity, and other required process parameters. - Observes and learns operation of reverse osmosis membrane systems, high-service pumps, chemical feed systems, and related treatment components. - Assists in monitoring storage tank levels, system pressures, and production flows under supervision. - Performs routine plant rounds to observe equipment performance and report abnormal conditions to a licensed operator or supervisor. - Maintains operational logs and records data accurately under supervision. - Assists with preventative maintenance activities, including lubrication, cleaning, and basic equipment inspection. - Maintains cleanliness and organization of plant facilities and work areas. - Assists in maintaining facility security by observing camera systems and access controls as directed. - Participates in safety training and complies with OSHA standards, including Lockout/Tagout awareness and chemical handling procedures. - Studies and prepares for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water Treatment Operator licensing examination. - Responds to emergency situations only under the direction of a licensed operator or supervisor. - Performs other related duties as assigned. **Education and Experience:** - High school diploma or equivalent required. - Technical training in water treatment, environmental science, mechanical systems, or a related field is preferred but not required. - Prior experience in water utilities, industrial operations, construction trades, mechanical maintenance, or related fields is desirable. **Special Qualifications:** - Valid State of Florida Class E Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record at the time of hire and maintained throughout employment. - Must obtain a minimum Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Class “C” Water Treatment Operator License within eighteen (18) months of hire or as otherwise determined by the City. - Must demonstrate measurable progress toward licensure and competency milestones as established by the department. - Ability to participate in a scheduled on-call rotation once deemed qualified by supervision. **Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:** - Basic knowledge of mechanical systems, pumps, and industrial equipment. - Ability to learn principles of reverse osmosis water treatment processes. - Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions. - Ability to read gauges, meters, and instrumentation accurately. - Ability to maintain accurate records and complete required documentation. - Ability to use computers and standard office software programs. - Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional working relationships. - Ability to work in a regulated environment requiring adherence to safety protocols and operational procedures. - Ability to respond appropriately during emergency or high-pressure situations under supervision of mech…