Water Resources Plant Operator I​/II​/III - Wastewater Treatment

Hiring Bonus

The Water Resources Department is excited to offer a hiring bonus for individuals newly hired as Water Resources Plant Operator I/II/III. New Water Resources Operatores may be eligible for a $3,500 incentive at the conclusion of Initial City Probation. To receive the bonus, an Operator must work as a Plant Operator for one year and receive a successful performance evaluation.

A Water Resources Plant Operator I is responsible for learning how to operate and maintain the City of Mesa’s wastewater treatment plants during an assigned shift with guidance from more experienced Operators.

Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining and operating plant equipment and the processes related to the treatment of wastewater
• Operating valves, gates, and pumps
• Adjusting flow rates and chemical feed rate
• Collecting samples and submitting for laboratory testing
• Monitoring control panels, gauges, and meters
• Maintaining written data on test results, gauges, and meter readings
• Checking chemical tank levels
• Mixing chemical solutions
• Operating laboratory equipment to perform chemical analysis
• Preparing written logs
• Relaying operational information to coworkers
• Following safety procedures and using appropriate safety equipment
• Working only on a shift where an Operator II or higher is present

Operator I’s may provide general guidance to lower-level plant operators and are expected to use safety equipment and follow safety procedures. They are exposed to chemicals, gases, and hazards. The position is FLSA non‑exempt and may require rotating shifts.

Any combination of training, education, or experience equivalent to graduation from high school or GED. Some (6 months–1 year) experience in a wastewater treatment plant, wastewater collection systems, or closely related operation.

Must possess a Grade I (or higher) Wastewater Treatment System Operator certification from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality under application date. ADEQ Certification through reciprocity must be obtained within three months of hire or promotion. Must obtain a Grade II Wastewater Treatment System Operator certification within 15 months of hire or promotion date. Responsible for acquiring a minimum of 30 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) every three years to maintain ADEQ Certification.

A Water Resources Plant Operator II performs journey-level work while learning to independently operate and maintain the City of Mesa’s wastewater treatment plants during an assigned shift.

Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining and operating plant equipment and the processes related to the treatment of wastewater
• Operating valves, gates, and pumps
• Adjusting flow rates and chemical feed rate
• Collecting samples and submitting for laboratory testing
• Monitoring control panels, gauges, and meters
• Maintaining written data on test results, gauges, and meter readings
• Checking chemical tank levels
• Mixing chemical solutions
• Operating laboratory equipment to perform chemical analysis
• Preparing written logs
• Relaying operational information to coworkers with minimal supervision
• Providing training and assistance to lower-level plant operators
• Using safety equipment and following safety procedures
• Working on a shift where an Operator III or higher is present

Operator II may work only on a shift where an Operator III or higher is present and is FLSA non‑exempt. Rotating shifts may be required.

Any combination of training, education, or experience equivalent to graduation from high school or GED. Good (1–3 years) experience in a wastewater treatment plant, wastewater collection systems, or closely related operation with at least one (1) year as Water Resources Operator at a wastewater treatment plant.

Must possess a Grade II (or higher) Wastewater Treatment System Operator certification from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. ADEQ Certification through reciprocity must be obtained within three months of hire. Must obtain a Grade III Wastewater Treatment System Operator certification within 15 months of hire or promotion…