Water Treatment Plant Operator

Coho Technology Solutions is seeking a detail-oriented and safety-conscious Water Treatment Plant Operator to support the efficient and compliant operation of a water treatment facility in Quantico, VA. This role involves monitoring systems, performing routine maintenance, conducting water quality tests, and responding to operational issues in accordance with environmental regulations and safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges to ensure consistent and safe plant performance.
• Conduct visual inspections of equipment and systems during periodic rounds.
• Record operational data, including meter readings and gauge levels.
• Maintain accurate logs and reports for internal use and regulatory compliance.
• Collect water and sewage samples; perform chemical and physical tests to determine proper treatment methods.
• Apply prescribed chemical treatments (e.g., chlorine, ammonia) to disinfect and treat water or wastewater.
• Operate pumps, filters, valves, and auxiliary equipment to clarify and purify water or treat sewage.
• Perform routine operational maintenance, including starting, stopping, and adjusting equipment as needed.
• Identify equipment malfunctions and either make minor repairs or escalate to supervisors.
• Ensure all operations align with EPA and local regulatory standards.
• Follow strict safety protocols to mitigate hazards such as slippery surfaces, gas exposure, and mechanical failures.
• Respond to emergencies using established procedures and ensure the safety of personnel and the public.
• Maintain and clean work areas, tanks, filter beds, and related equipment.
• Interpret plant schematics, circuit diagrams, and technical manuals for troubleshooting and repair.
• Make operational decisions regarding water flow, chemical dosing, and plant output based on complex system data.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Licensing & Training:
• Current Commonwealth of Virginia Class II Water Treatment Plant Operator License (required).
• Completion of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction TrainingCourse (minimum requirement).
• Technical Knowledge & Abilities:
• Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes, including chemical dosing and water quality testing.
• Demonstrated ability to calculate and apply treatment formulas to determine chemical concentrations, flow levels, and treatment requirements.
• Skilled in interpreting technical instructions, specifications, plant drawings, and circuit diagrams to locate system defects and perform repairs.
• Knowledge of EPA regulations and ability to maintain compliance through accurate documentation and testing.
• Familiarity with the location and function of all plant controls, meters, and gauges, with the skill to make independent adjustments based on complex operating demands.
• Comprehensive knowledge of pollutant control procedures, maintenance requirements, and proper handling of hazardous chemicals.
• Operational Skills:
• Proven ability to perform preventive and corrective maintenance on pumps, filters, valves, tanks, and auxiliary systems.
• Ability to start, stop, adjust, and troubleshoot equipment safely and efficiently.
• Experience operating and maintaining support systems such as Unfired Pressure Vessels (UPVs), water heaters, and industrial fans.
• Ability to safely operate, repair, and maintain complex water treatmentequipment under minimal supervision.
• Physical & Environmental Readiness:
• Capable of working in confined or difficult-to-access spaces and around rotating industrial machinery.
• Able to lift up to 40 pounds unassisted, and occasionally heavier items with team assistance or equipment.
• Comfortable performing moderate to strenuous physical tasks such as walking, standing, climbing, bending, and crouching for extended periods.
• Willing and able to work in environments with high temperatures, constant noise, dirt, grease, fumes, chemicals, and unpleasant odors.
• Safety & Emergency Response:
• Strong understanding of and commitment to safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and emergency response procedures.
• Trained in emergency management procedures, with the ability to take immediate and appropriate action in response to system malfunctions or hazardous conditions.