Wastewater Lift Station Operator

Inspects lift stations operations to determine the need for equipment repairs to ensure efficient operations.

Position works outside in all weather conditions and may be exposed to loud noise, dust, dirt, open manholes, street cave-ins, toxic chemicals (hydrogen sulfide), and gases (methane). Safety equipment includes safety shoes, vests, ear plugs, hard hats, SCBA apparatus, and gloves.

Position involves heavy physical work, exerting over 50 pounds frequently; includes balancing, bending, stooping, climbing, crouching, kneeling, reaching above shoulder height, squatting, and pushing/pulling up to 50 pounds. Requires agility, working in confined spaces, and using two-way radios; ability to hear warning sounds and conversations is essential.

May involve shift work, including holidays, weekends, nights, and overtime; may require standby duty. Work may involve stressful emergency situations. Must meet precise standards, manage multiple tasks, work to deadlines, and respond to customer issues. Regular attendance is essential for service continuity. Position is subject to drug testing per regulations and policies.

Note: First consideration may be given to current City of Las Cruces employees who meet minimum requirements. Meeting or exceeding qualifications does not guarantee participation.

Full-Time;
Regular;
Non-Exempt;
Union-Represented

Position is graded at BC14.

• Performs daily lift station checks of equipment, including pumps, controls, overhead crane blowers, generators, and grounds.
• Determines need for repair or replacement of pumps, check valves, meters, gauges, relays, and switches.
• Performs preventive maintenance on cables, bolts, filters, gaskets, seals, bearings; participates in piping, valve, and equipment fabrication.
• Provides detailed descriptions of potential problems and specifications; maintains logs and reports.
• Participates in installation, service, and repair of main lines and manholes; digs manholes; operates pipe locators and motorized vehicles; checks system stub outs.
• Serves as a confined space entry team member; handles emergency calls; trains apprentices.
• Interacts with the public regarding wastewater maintenance activities.
• Performs general cleaning, washing walls, painting, watering, and pruning.

Requires a high school diploma and three years of experience in municipal wastewater system construction, with a possible combination of education, experience, and training.

Valid Class A commercial driver’s license with air brake endorsement and current NM Level III Wastewater Operator Certification; acceptable driving record.

Wastewater operations, regulations, safety practices, record keeping, research, customer service, and software applications.

Operate vehicles and tools, perform technical reading/writing, work in confined spaces, respond to emergencies, manage multiple tasks, ensure customer satisfaction, and communicate effectively.

Understand rules and regulations, manage assignments, respond to inquiries, work independently or in teams, prepare reports, operate equipment, and resolve conflicts effectively.