Employment Opportunities

Rend Lake Conservancy District is seeking a qualified individual to fill the full- time Lab Operator position within the Water Department. The position is responsible for performing work relating to the operation of the water plant facilities which includes testing, monitoring, and maintaining good water quality.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Perform routine water quality testing every two hours, including chlorine (both free and total), pH, turbidity, alkalinity, clarifier sludge levels, fluoride, chlorine dioxide, chlorite and temperature.
2. Perform other non-routine lab testing as directed by the Water Superintendent.
3. Analyze all test data and determine chemical dosage rates.
4. Record all results and changes made to plant and chemical systems.
5. Perform routine monitoring of all plant pumping and chemical systems every 2 hours.
6. Backwash sand filters.
7. Respond to loss of power and other plant emergencies.
8. Operate and monitor plant SCADA system.
9. Adjust the plant influent flow rate and ensure that chemical systems are set properly by SCADA system.
10. Perform cleaning duties as directed by the Water Superintendent.
11. Perform minor routine maintenance on plant analyzers to ensure accuracy of on-line readings and functioning of chemical feed systems.
12. Keep all lab and test equipment clean and make written lists of needed lab supplies and materials.
13. Inspect all incoming chemical loads for seals, bill of laden, and proper hook ups before unloading, and sign and date required paper work.
14. Refill chemical day tanks at the end of the each shift and record usage readings at midnight.
15. Change lime slakers and thoroughly clean out the one not in use.
16. Operate and monitor membrane filtration system and initiate chemical washes.
17. Ensure all doors and gates are closed and premises secure at all times.
18. Observe all appropriate safety rules while completing duties.
19. Work shift work as assigned, including weekends and holidays.  Must be prepared to work a double shift as needed.
20. Contact superintendent of any equipment problems, failures, water quality problems, or any other abnormalities.                                       
21. Perform any other job related duties as required.

Minimum Job Requirements:

• High School diploma or equivalent education
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Obtain and maintain Class “C” water license, Class “A” preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Be able to maintain water quality as specified by the EPA and the superintendent.
• Working knowledge of water treatment operations, classroom training in water treatment and safety, knowledge of chemicals and chemical usage, and knowledge of chemical feeders
• Ability to understand and implement verbal and written communications and instructions.
• Ability to read, understand and follow safety procedures.
• Ability to work well with others is mandatory.
• Ability to safely use lab equipment and supplies.
• An understanding of the need and agreement to work weekends and holidays as required.
• Ability to utilize computer SCADA system for water plant and distribution system operation

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, weather conditions, and/or loud noises.
• Moderate physical activity.  Requires some heavy physical work; lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects in excess of 50 pounds.  
• Must be physically and mentally able to thoroughly complete the required tasks in a timely and competent manner, as well as being able to spend a large portion of the shift standing and climbing stairs.  Physical work is an essential part of this job.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

Generous Benefit Package:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Sick Days
• Paid Vacation Days
• Paid Holidays
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement

Pay is based on union scale and DOQ: $25.45/hour – $35.52/hour