07/26/2001 82110

WASHING MACHINE OPERATOR

DEFINITION: This is semi-skilled manual work in the operation of heavy- duty washing machines in a laundry at a Commonwealth facility.

Employees in this class operate heavy- duty industrial washing machines in volume production in a laundry having a hot and humid working environment. Employees are responsible for using the proper amounts of laundry chemicals and for proper loading of machines with soiled laundry. Work is performed under the direction of a Laundry Supervisor who checks work in process and upon completion.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Identifies the type of pre-sorted laundry to be washed, and loads washers with soiled laundry.

Fills the washing machine with water of the correct temperature and adds proper amount of laundry chemicals at the various steps in the washing and rinsing process.

Starts the washing machine; observes the operation and determines when the laundry has been thoroughly washed.

Extracts the washed laundry from the washing machine.

Gives special attention to the washing of delicate linens, uniforms and similar items.

Inspects, lubricates and makes minor repairs to the washing machines.

Cleans laundry equipment and surrounding work area.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of heavy duty washers.

Knowledge of the effects of soaps, bleaches, water temperature and machine washing on textiles of various types and color.

Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of laundry operations.

Ability to wash laundry effectively without damage.

Ability to make minor repairs on heavy-duty washers.

Ability to work under hot and humid conditions for extended periods of time.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors and other employees.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Laundry Worker;

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One years of experience as a laundry worker or washing machine operator in a commercial or industrial laundry and such training as may have been gained through completion of the eighth school grade;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.