Become a Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) Plant Operator
Plant Operators at Sonoma Water have the incredible opportunity to operate four separate classifications and types of wastewater and recycled water treatment facilities that are located across the county. These include tertiary, extended air, biological nutrient removal, membrane, and lagoon plants. Sonoma Water also operates a water treatment facility that treats over 16.5 billion gallons annually and distributes to over 600,000 customers. This experience provides Operators the opportunity to qualify for Grade 5 Water and Wastewater treatment certifications, and with time and certification, the ability to promote to Senior Water Agency Plant Operator.
In accordance with federal and state regulations, Plant Operators monitor and control the operation of the wastewater treatment plants. As an operator, you will utilize SCADA, laboratory results, and plant process equipment to optimize the biological process and achieve a high-quality plant effluent that can be used as recycled water at some of our facilities. This position will operate pumps, valves, chlorinators, telemetry controls, sludge presses, and other water and wastewater flow regulating controls and equipment. Additionally, this position:
Maintains reservoir levels and coordinates water storage, usage, and user allotments
Reads, records, and maintains detailed operational records, as well as monitors a computer-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system which controls water supply, water and wastewater treatment processes, and reclamation facilities
Performs routine laboratory analysis of water and wastewater samples using accepted analyzing techniques, and interpret the results
Computes volumes and percentages using both standard and metric systems
The ideal candidate for this position will enjoy working independently and in a team environment, have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and possess:
California State Water Resources Control Board Certifications, including:
Wastewater Plant Operator Grade II or higher
Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade T2 or higher
Water Distribution Operator Grade D1 or higher
The written and verbal communication skills needed to effectively collaborate with a diverse group of co-workers, write reports, and present to stakeholders
The ability to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical plant issues
An understanding of biological processes and their functions
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel, and some experience with SCADA
The ability to remain calm, perform well under pressure, and potentially deal with extreme emergency situations
Note: Sonoma Water Operators work a "4-10" schedule and are required to rotate through all three shift schedules, including swing shifts, weekends, and standby shifts as assigned. Operators in need of computer system desk hours may be assigned these shifts in order to meet certification requirements.
Salary is negotiable within the established range and benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. For more information, including minimum qualifications, & to apply, visit, www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org or call 707-565-2331. The County of Sonoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to having a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. Apply by 6/06/24