Job Title: Equipment Operator 

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Equipment Operator (Water Plants) to lead and oversee the operation of water treatment equipment in our facility. In this senior-level role, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient, and safe operation of all water treatment systems, including pumps, filters, and chemical dosing units. You will also lead a team of junior and mid-level operators, providing mentorship, training, and guidance. This is a hands-on role that requires a deep understanding of water treatment processes, system troubleshooting, and equipment maintenance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supervising and Leading Equipment Operations:

   • Lead the operation of all water treatment equipment, including pumps, motors, valves, filters, and chemical dosing systems, ensuring they are running efficiently and within safety parameters.
   • Oversee the daily operation of water treatment processes, ensuring that water quality meets regulatory standards and customer requirements.
   • Direct and supervise junior and mid-level operators, assigning tasks and ensuring they follow best practices and safety protocols.

2. System Monitoring and Troubleshooting:

   • Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) for water treatment processes, including flow rates, pressures, chemical dosages, and water quality.
   • Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical and electrical issues with water treatment equipment, pumps, motors, and other systems.
   • Lead in the diagnosis and repair of equipment malfunctions, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.

3. Maintenance and Preventive Care:

   • Ensure that preventive maintenance schedules are followed for all equipment, helping to extend the lifespan of the machinery and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
   • Perform, oversee, and schedule maintenance tasks such as cleaning, lubrication, and replacing worn-out parts.
   • Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure equipment is maintained to the highest standards and in compliance with regulations.

4. Training and Mentorship:

   • Provide training and guidance to junior operators, helping them develop their skills in water treatment processes, equipment handling, and troubleshooting.
   • Mentor junior and mid-level operators, offering feedback, suggestions, and opportunities for professional growth.
   • Conduct safety and operations training sessions to ensure that all team members adhere to safety standards and operational procedures.

5. Compliance and Regulatory Adherence:

   • Ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental regulations, health standards, and safety protocols.
   • Prepare and review reports on water quality, operational performance, and any incidents or issues related to equipment or processes.
   • Ensure that all necessary documentation for regulatory compliance is accurately completed and submitted as required.

6. Safety and Risk Management:

   • Lead safety efforts, ensuring that all operators follow safety standards and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling equipment and chemicals.
   • Conduct regular safety audits, identify risks, and implement corrective actions to mitigate hazards.
   • Maintain a culture of safety within the team, ensuring safe practices are always followed, particularly in high-risk operations such as chemical handling.

7. Collaboration and Reporting:

   • Collaborate with the engineering and maintenance teams to support troubleshooting and resolve technical issues.
   • Report regularly to management regarding water treatment operations, including system performance, issues, and improvements.
   • Provide input into planning and resource allocation for water treatment projects and operational improvements.

8. Continuous Improvement:

   • Identify opportunities to optimize water treatment processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs while maintaining or improving water quality.
   • Stay current with technological advancements in water treatment processes and equipment, implementing new methods or tools as appropriate to improve operations.
   • Lead efforts to adopt new technologies that can enhance plant operations, water quality, or environmental sustainability.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Leadership and Supervision:

   • Lead and manage a team of equipment operators, ensuring smooth operation, safety compliance, and efficient workflows.

2. System Monitoring and Maintenance:

   • Oversee the performance and maintenance of water treatment equipment, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal operational efficiency.

3. Troubleshooting and Problem Solving:

   • Lead the diagnosis and resolution of complex issues related to water treatment systems and equipment.

4. Safety and Compliance:

   • Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements while maintaining a safe working environment.

5. Continuous Improvement:

   • Contribute to process improvements and implement best practices in water treatment to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • High school diploma or equivalent; a technical certification or degree in Environmental Engineering, Water Treatment, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
   • Additional certifications in water treatment processes, equipment operation, or safety protocols are highly desirable.

2. Experience:

   • 5+ years of experience in operating and maintaining water treatment equipment, with at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role.
   • Strong hands-on experience with pumps, filtration systems, chemical dosing units, and other water treatment machinery.
   • Experience in troubleshooting complex issues with water treatment equipment and understanding of the systems’ technical aspects.

3. Skills:

   • Advanced knowledge of water treatment processes and systems, including chemical dosing, filtration, and disinfection.
   • Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise and mentor a team.
   • Excellent problem-solving abilities and the capacity to troubleshoot and resolve equipment and process issues.
   • Good communication skills, both verbal and written, for reporting and collaboration with management and team members.
   • Knowledge of water quality standards, environmental regulations, and safety practices.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Water treatment certifications (e.g., Grade 1, 2, or 3 certification) or equivalent.
   • OSHA, First Aid/CPR, or other safety-related certifications.
   • Project Management certification is a plus.