Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

This position is responsible for assisting in the operation, maintenance, and repair of wastewater treatment facilities as a trainee under the direction of a Class IV Operator.

• Operates wastewater treatment machinery and equipment under the direction and supervision of a Grade IV Operator; assists in the maintenance and repair of electrical, mechanical, and other systems; assists in installing plant equipment.
• Collects samples and performs laboratory tests.
• Monitors plant operations and records a variety of meter and gauge readings.
• Performs preventive and reactive maintenance under the direction of a Class IV Operator; services screens, aerators, clarifiers, ultraviolet bulbs, etc.; maintains and repairs blowers, pumps, valves, etc.
• Participates in sludge watering processes; adjusts polymer feed rate to optimize solid waste removal.
• Transports grit trailer to landfill for grit disposal.
• Performs plant security checks on gates, doors, fencing, etc.
• Maintains treatment plant grounds.
• Operates equipment such as loader, forklift, skid steer, tractor, dump truck, backhoe, etc.
• Completes required classes and training sessions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of safety policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment system maintenance and repair principles.
• Knowledge of wastewater plant operations principles and processes.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment rules, regulations, standards, and principles.
• Knowledge of relevant state and federal regulations.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of wastewater sample collection and analysis.
• Skill in the mechanical maintenance and repair of treatment plant equipment.
• Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles and equipment.
• Skill in the use of hand and power tools.
• Skill in problem solving.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

• Valid operator’s driver license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must take the ADEM Wastewater Treatment Operator Grade II test (1st attempt) within nine months of employment, and obtain/pass certification within twelve months.
• An employee in this position must progress to ADEM Wastewater Treatment Operator Grade IV within twelve months after obtaining Grade II certification.
• Must obtain a Class B, Commercial Driver License (CDL) within 120 days of employment.
• In an emergency or standby situation, must be able to report to the regular workstation within 30 minutes of notification; this requirement must be met within six months of employment.
• Must be available to be contacted via phone within 30 days of employment due to call‑out requirements.
• Applicants will undergo background investigations, drug and alcohol testing, and must meet physical standards.

Qualified applicants will be evaluated based on training and experience as documented on their application. This evaluation will comprise 100% of their final grade.

Applicants with a disability who feel they need accommodation should contact the Personnel Department in writing on or before the closing date of this advertisement by emailing jobs.

An Equal Opportunity, Affhm Employer