Apprentice – Water & Sewer

Become an Apprentice in Municipal Government!

This is an excellent opportunity to learn a trade, earn competitive pay and benefits, and gain hands‑on experience through on‑the‑job training and paid training classes. If you’re ready to build practical skills and start a career path in Public Works, we’d love to hear from you!

The Public Works Apprentice – Water & Sewer position is a temporary, three‑year work‑training program designed to help individuals develop the skills needed for a successful career in municipal operations. While the City cannot guarantee full‑time employment after completion of the Apprentice program, many employees who have held similar positions have gone on to full‑time Public Works careers.

Under direct supervision, the Apprentice will progress through a three‑year training program and gain experience supporting the City’s Water & Sewer operations, including:

• Maintaining and caring for City facilities and infrastructure
• Assisting with annual hydrant flushing
• Operating, repairing, and replacing control valves
• Supporting storm sewer maintenance, including installation and repair
• Performing catch basin inspections, cleaning, and repair
• Operating trucks, tools, and equipment used in Public Works operations

The ideal candidate will bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and an interest in building a career in Public Works. Candidates should have:

• Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and equipment
• Good driving record with the ability to obtain a Class A CDL with Air Brake Endorsement
• The ability to work alternate schedules, including winter schedules, weekends, and other hours as workload requires
• At least 18 years of age
• The ability to perform strenuous physical work, including lifting and working outdoors in all weather conditions

• Be part of a forward‑thinking organization committed to thoughtful planning, reliable infrastructure, and high‑quality community services
• Learn valuable, hands‑on skills in Water & Sewer operations with supportive leadership and on‑the‑job training
• Work in a collaborative environment that values professionalism, safety, integrity, and exceptional customer service
• Build a career path in Public Works while helping maintain the essential systems that serve Lake Forest residents every day

• Full salary range: $24.34 – $31.64 per hour, rate of pay rises with experience
• Insurance:
  Medical (HMO), dental, vision
• Leave:
  Paid time off, sick leave and holidays, parental leave
• Retirement: IMRF pension + 457(b)/Roth options

• Tuition reimbursement, EAP, legal/life protection, PSLF eligibility

The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.