Operator Apprentice

Join Resource Renew as a Full‑Time Wastewater Operator Apprentice. This position offers hands‑on opportunity to learn how to operate, troubleshoot, and perform basic preventive and corrective maintenance on wastewater conveyance and treatment plant systems processes. As an Operator Apprentice, you will work under the guidance of licensed operators, lead operators, and managers to develop the essential skills required to maintain and optimize a wastewater conveyance system and wastewater treatment facility.

This entry‑level position may be eligible for the next position level as a full‑time Conveyance or Wastewater Treatment Operator upon meeting the minimum qualifications and successfully obtaining the required Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) wastewater operator certification.

WHO WE ARE

Resource Renew, the brand of Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD), is committed to preventing pollution and protecting the environment, including the region's most precious resource – Lake Superior. Founded as a special purpose unit of government created by the Minnesota Legislature in 1971 to address serious environmental pollution problems in the lower St. Louis River Basin, Resource Renew provides wastewater and solid waste services and oversight for a 530 square mile region around Duluth, Minnesota.

Our facilities include a main wastewater treatment plant, multiple pump stations, and solid waste collection sites of varied types.

• Safety and efficiently operate the equipment and facilities of the assigned work area to main compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal permits and regulations
• Monitor Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and other process control data to stay current with the status of system processes and coordinate adjustments to keep control parameters within normal operating ranges
• Keep up‑to‑date on the WLSSD National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) permit requirements, air permits and process performance
• Monitor equipment by taking necessary readings (e.g. temperature, pressure, pH, flow, etc.); make any required adjustments and accurately record data
• Communicate with other departments and operators to provide the necessary information for various process problems, emergencies and routine updates
• Perform regular equipment checks, minor maintenance, troubleshoot issues and take appropriate corrective action
• Participate in developing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for assigned work area
• Maintain constant awareness of safe work practices; ensure compliance with the District Safety program to complete work without accidents of injuries
• Knowledge of basic math, biology and physical science
• Knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods and procedures used in maintenance activities
• Knowledge of pumps, motors, tools, machinery and equipment
• Experience with computer operations and computerized process control systems
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the operations of industrial plant equipment and processes

• High school diploma or equivalent and two (2) years' work experience in an industrial, manufacturing or related environment; or
• Completion of a degree or diploma program in a relevant technical field
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered

• Obtain a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Class "D" or "S‑D" Wastewater / Collection System Operator Certificate within 18 months of hire
• Possess a Class "D" driver's license or equivalent

• 12 paid holidays + 4 personal leave days annually
• Front‑loaded vacation plan
• Basic Life Insurance, Supplemental Life and Long‑Term Disability plans
• Professional Development;
  Tuition Reimbursement, opportunities to attend conferences, training courses, and more!
• Employee Wellness Programs;
  Fitness Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Health and Safety Education, Wellness Committee, Environmental Stewardship and more!

Non‑discrimination:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.