Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

In accordance with the Merit System Rules and Regulations, an eligible list, which will be valid for a one-year period, and which will be used to fill vacancies during that period, is being established for this classification. Applicants on the eligible list will be certified in accordance with the Merit System and appropriate union contracts.

Candidates may submit online employment applications using the NEOGOV online application system available

EXAMINATION PROCESS: The examination process for this posting may include an evaluation of training and experience, a written examination, a computerized exam, an oral board interview examination, a performance examination or any combination of the above in order to qualify applicants for placement on the eligible list. The eligible list will be used to fill vacancies that occur within the next year. The appropriate number of names on the eligible list as prescribed by Merit System Section will be certified to the hiring department for consideration to fill the vacant position(s).

New employees are generally hired at the starting salary and may be eligible for merit increases each year upon receipt of a satisfactory performance evaluation, up to the maximum salary.

New Castle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Performs skilled work in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants and associated facilities; does related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: An employee in this class operates, repairs, and maintains wastewater treatment plants and associated facilities, including their structures, equipment, and grounds in compliance with applicable permit requirements. This employee may supervise Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainees or other section employees in the performance of these duties. This employee receives on-the-job training and must successfully complete New Castle County training requirements, including classroom and/or individual study instruction and periodic proficiency testing. Failure to demonstrate proficiency as determined by written or performance testing will result in demotion to a suitable position, if available. This employee works under general supervision and must use reasonable care, judgment, and the application of their knowledge in the performance of their duties.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)

• Directs the work of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainees and maintenance personnel;
• Evaluates physical, chemical and biological tests and, based on the results, takes necessary action to correct any unsatisfactory conditions;
• Records and interprets readings of meters and gauges;
• Collects and performs tests on samples, including sample compositing procedures;
• Performs overall plant and facility structure and grounds maintenance and cleanup;
• Maintains and repairs and/or supervises the maintenance and repair of all equipment and processes;
• Maintains and/or supervises the keeping of maintenance and operational records;
• Attends training courses in the operation of wastewater treatment plants and sludge composting facilities;
• Operates pumps and equipment;
• Writes reports as required;
• Acts as individual in direct responsible charge of wastewater treatment plants at appropriate licensing level;
• Promotes an ongoing attitude of dedication to excellent public service and ensures that internal and external customers are provided with the highest quality of service;
• Operates a personal computer, and other related equipment in the course of the work.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of the function, repair, and servicing requirements of wastewater treatment and composting equipment, machinery, and facilities; good knowledge of physical, chemical, and biological processes as they pertain to the treatment of wastewater; good knowledge of the processes involved in the purification of water; ability to inspect, detect flaws and defects, and make routine or operator repairs as required to the machinery and mechanical equipment of treatment facilities; ability to read, record, and interpret flow meter readings and charts; ability to maintain daily records; ability to perform tests for plant control and permit requirements; mechanical aptitude; ability to supervise others.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: At least three years of experience at or above the level of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee and possession of a high school diploma or GED certificate; or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training directly related to the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid Delaware Class D driver's license or its equivalent and possession of a valid State of Delaware Class II Wastewater Treatment Facility Operator's license. Must obtain a Delaware Class III Wastewater Treatment Facility Operator's license within three years of appointment to be retained in this job classification. Licenses must be maintained in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations. Ability to pass a Class III County physical examination and background check.

Cassondra Briggs

Human Resources Technician

Health Insurance: Starts the first of the month following a 60-day waiting period from the date of hire. Charges for coverage vary depending on type and level of coverage chosen. The following plans are currently available through Highmark (Comprehensive 80% Plan; a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) and an EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) and Aetna (Open Access HMO.) Deductibles and co-pays may also apply.

Dental Insurance: Starts the first of the month following a 60-day waiting period from date of hire. Currently, there are two PPO options and an HMO option. Charges vary depending on type and level of coverage chosen.

Sick Leave: Accumulates at the rate of one day for each completed month of service, beginning after the first full month of employment.

Vacation: Vests on December 31 of the calendar year preceding the vacation year. Vested vacation is to be used in the 12 months following the vesting date. Employees are entitled to vacation as follows:

Less than 12 months service

• • 1 day for each completed month of service to a maximum of 10 days
    1 – 4 years of service- - 10 days of vacation
    5 – 9 years of service- - 15 days of vacation
    10 – 14 years of service- - 20 days of vacation
    15 years of service- - 25 days of vacation
    15+ years of service days of vacation (an additional day for each successive year of service)

Holidays: 13-1/2 paid holidays per year (1/2 day on Christmas Eve).

Life Insurance: Provided by the County in the amount of one and one-half times your salary. Minimum benefit - $50,000; Maximum benefit - $200,000.

Pension: Employee contributory amount of three percent of base salary to defined benefit plan. County will make a non-elective contribution of one percent of base salary to defined contribution account. In addition, the County will also make an annual matching contribution of one hundred percent of employee's contribution, up to a maximum of two percent to defined contribution account. 10-year vesting.

Deferred Compensation Plan:

Optional employee contributory plan available.

Additional Benefits: Salary increases each year dependent upon appropriate negotiated increase and/or merit increases; Credit Union, Blood Bank, Sick Leave Bank (after two years of service), Fitness Center, and an Employee Assistance Program are all benefits available to employees at no cost.

Supplemental Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical reimbursement and dependent care), additional life insurance, vision, group accident, group hospital indemnity, group disability, and critical care insurance are also available at an additional cost to the employee.

Union Affiliation: Some positions are affiliated with a local bargaining unit, and, therefore, will require a monthly dues deduction ranging from $23 to $46.65 per month.

Special Note: The above benefits are subject to change. For detailed information on any of the above, contact the Office of Human Resources at

Revised: 12/15/15