Job Details

Operator-in-Training

Job Summary

The Operator-in-Training will perform a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant on an assigned shift. This position typically holds or is working on first-level water/wastewater treatment certification. This position requires knowledge of equipment and tools, the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. The role involves operating vehicles and machinery, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the efficient functioning of the treatment plant.

Primary Responsibilities

• Learns and gains skills involving the maintenance of equipment and servicing work in the plant.
• Operates treatment facilities to control flow and processing of water/wastewater, sludge, and effluent.
• Operates valves and gates either manually or by remote control, starts and stops pumps, engines, and generators to control and adjust flow and treatment processes.
• Monitors gauges, meters, and control panels.
• Observes and reports abnormalities to supervisor.
• Maintains shift log and records meter and gauge readings.
• Collects samples and performs routine laboratory tests and analyses.
• Performs routine maintenance functions, general housekeeping and custodial duties
• Understands and carries out oral and written directions.
• Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work.
• Performs other duties as required.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable MVR.
• (Preferred) Knowledge of the principles, methods, and tools employed in the general operations of engines, pumps, and related equipment; general maintenance work; safe work practices; basic biological and chemical principles
• Ability to possess a Class I Wastewater Operator certification through the State of Louisiana within one year of employment.

Progression Expectations

The Operator-in-Training role is intended as the entry point into the operator progression pathway. Employees in this position are expected to actively work toward obtaining a Louisiana Class I Wastewater Operator certification within 12 months of hire. Upon successful completion of the Class I certification and demonstration of basic operational competency, the Operator-in-Training will become eligible for promotion to Wastewater Operator I. Continued progression through the operator levels is based on certification achievement, operational proficiency, adherence to safety protocols, and supervisor evaluation.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
• Advanced understanding of water and wastewater system operations.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Team leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management.
• High stress tolerance and a strong safety-first mindset.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Normal, corrective vision range; ability to see color and to distinguish letters, numbers and symbols.
• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, bend and reach for long periods of times in a treatment plant setting.
• Ability to reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

• Ability to work a rotating schedule, including some nights and weekends, and willingness to work overtime as needed (overtime is not guaranteed).

• Safety is a core value at Bonton Associates. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety sensitive labor or services. Due to the nature of the job passing a Fitness for Duty testing is required to ensure candidates for this position are physically and functionally fit to perform the essential physical work functions of this safety sensitive position without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of themselves or others.
• The physical and environmental demands required to perform the essential duties of this position include standing, walking, sitting, coordination, balance and agility demands, which may include the ability to stoop, kneel, squat, grasp, reach, perform repetitive hand movements. Additional demands may involve a specific level of dexterity, grip strength, climbing and cardiorespiratory demands. The work areas may be indoor, outdoor, have loud noise, active machinery, high pressure fluid systems, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights and depths, fumes, airborne particles, noxious gases, and chemicals. The use of appropriate safety equipment will be mandatory in these areas to prevent hazardous contact.

Other Duties

This job description is not all-inclusive of all job duties. Job duties and responsibilities may be assigned that are not mentioned above at any time based upon the demands of the Company. Essential functions and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific duties/requirements assigned to the position.