Attendant: Effluent Plant at McCain Foods

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

• The Effluent Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of wastewater and effluent treatment plants, ensuring the treatment processes meet environmental regulations and company standards. This includes managing water treatment equipment, chemical dosing systems, and performing regular inspections, tests, and maintenance activities to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Effluent Treatment Operations:

• Operate and monitor the entire effluent treatment process, including screening, settling, filtration, biological treatment, and disinfection.
• Control and adjust chemical dosages for coagulation, flocculation, and disinfection processes to optimize water quality.
• Monitor effluent quality through regular sampling and testing, ensuring that treated water meets regulatory standards before discharge.
• Maintain accurate records of plant operations, including flow rates, chemical usage, and treatment results.

Plant Maintenance:

• Perform routine maintenance and inspections of plant equipment, such as pumps, valves, filters, chemical dosing systems, and motors.
• Clean, lubricate, and repair equipment as necessary to ensure continued operation and prevent breakdowns.
• Assist in troubleshooting and resolving any mechanical, electrical, or operational issues within the effluent treatment plant.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Adhere to all health, safety, and environmental policies and regulations to ensure safe plant operations.
• Monitor the operation of the plant to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal effluent discharge standards and regulations (e.g., the Clean Water Act, Environmental Protection Agency guidelines).
• Operate and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure the proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals used in treatment processes.
• Respond to emergencies, such as equipment malfunctions or abnormal effluent discharge conditions, and take corrective action as needed.

Data Collection & Reporting:

• Collect and analyze data on effluent quality and treatment process efficiency, including flow rates, turbidity, pH levels, and chemical consumption.
• Prepare and submit daily, weekly, or monthly operational reports documenting the plant’s performance, maintenance activities, and water quality results.
• Assist in preparing reports for environmental audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance.

Process Improvement & Optimization:

• Monitor and evaluate plant performance to identify opportunities for improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.
• Work with supervisors to implement process optimization techniques to improve treatment effectiveness, reduce chemical consumption, and minimize waste.

Team Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with other team members, supervisors, and maintenance personnel to ensure smooth and efficient plant operations
• Assist in training new operators or staff members on plant operations, equipment usage, and safety protocols.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education & Certifications:

• Grade 12/High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience:

• Proven experience in operating and maintaining effluent or wastewater treatment plants, preferably in an industrial or municipal setting.
• Experience with chemical dosing, filtration systems, and biological treatment processes.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Knowledge of water treatment processes, including physical, chemical, and biological treatment techniques.
• Ability to troubleshoot and perform basic maintenance on mechanical, electrical, and chemical systems.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and safety procedures related to effluent treatment.
• Basic data analysis and reporting skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office or specialized software.
• Ability to operate, calibrate, and maintain water and effluent testing equipment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move heavy objects (up to [specified weight], if applicable).
• Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in various weather conditions.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, stoop, and perform physical tasks related to plant operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed in an industrial wastewater treatment plant with exposure to varying levels of noise, chemicals, and other environmental factors.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, safety boots, and hearing protection is required.
• Shift work, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, may be required, along with on-call availability for emergencies.