Water & Wastewater Plant Operator — Training Path

Keep the water flowing. Protect public health. Build a career that matters. Join our team as a Plant Operator, and operate the critical systems that provide safe drinking water and wastewater treatment for our community. We offer hands‑on training, career advancement opportunities, and meaningful work every day.

The Plants Operators In Training, I, II, III series performs progressively responsible wastewater and water duties, computer console operations, process control, troubleshooting functions, minor maintenance to equipment, facilities and grounds to ensure proper operation of incinerators, advanced secondary wastewater treatment plant systems, water distribution, wastewater collection, and water treatment plant. Duties are performed on a rotating shift basis and include weekend, graveyard, swing shift, and after‑hours public works dispatch responsibilities.

Error or negligence in performance could result in equipment damage, violation of air and water quality standards, and have serious consequences for the City’s water supply and/or wastewater treatment system.

Joining the City of Bellingham means becoming a part of a team that believes our greatest impact comes from working together with purpose, humility and a shared commitment to our community. Every employee contributes to delivering meaningful results for the people who live, work and visit here. We value people who approach challenges with curiosity, respect and collaboration.

The 2026 starting hourly rate is at Step 1. The full salary ranges for each position are:

• Hourly Rates:
  • Plants Operator In Training
    :
    Starting hourly rate is at Step 1 ($31.69/hour) for full time positions. The full salary range for this position is $31.69/hour - $41.35/hour.
  • Plants Operator I:
    Starting hourly rate is at Step 1 ($35.61/hour) for full time positions. The full salary range for this position is $35.61/hour - $46.46/hour.
  • Plants Operator II
    :
    Starting hourly rate is at Step 1 ($40.02/hour) for full time positions. The full salary range for this position is $40.02/hour - $52.21/hour.
  • Plants Operator III
    :
    Starting hourly rate is at Step 1 ($42.42/hour) for full time positions. The full salary range for this position is $42.42/hour - $55.35/hour.
• Candidates that do not already have valid State of Washington Incinerator Operator, Water Treatment Plant Operator, and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certifications should expect to start as Operator‑in‑Training at a salary grade 109, level 1 (currently $31.69/hr). All three certifications are required for placement at higher salary grades.

Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.

At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team.

• 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time
• 12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year
• 8 hours sick leave accrued monthly
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• Life insurance and long‑term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt‑out program
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security
• Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match

Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro‑rated if part‑time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.

Closing Date/Time:
Mon., Aug 17, 2026 at 8:30 AM Pacific Time

• High school diploma or GED required upon entry;
• One year of experience or related training using hand and power tools and motorized equipment to perform manual labor required upon entry;
• Associates in applied science degree in…