Utility Operator, Operator , Operator II

The City of Soldotna has an immediate opening for an Operator in the Utility Department

Operator – Range 13 $31.30-$43.83,
Operator I – Range 14 $33.17-$46.45,
Operator II – Range 15 $35.72-$50.03, DOE.

This position is open until filled, with the first review of applicants on 07/30/2026.

The Utility Operator is under the general direction and supervision of the Utility Department Manager; or his/her designee; the operator is responsible for regular and recurring responsibilities related to the operation and maintenance of Soldotna’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, Water Treatment, and the Distribution/Collection Systems. Work schedule includes Monday through Friday, some holidays, and an on-call rotation with some weekend work. A weekly work schedule will be prepared on an as needed basis and may include shift work.

Shift work is defined as late night, early morning and/or week-end hours.

• Operates the wastewater and water treatment plants to meet the State of Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Permits. Operates the distribution and collection systems to meet the State of Alaska DEC Regulations. Troubleshoots equipment and makes all necessary repairs. Informs Utility Manager of plant or system performance and any repairs that need to be made or equipment that is down for repairs.
• Operates collection, distribution, wells, and wastewater treatment plant equipment; including, but not limited to: incline screw pumps, belt filter press, screens, grit handling systems, flumes, clarifiers, aeration basins, blowers, chlorination equipment, ultraviolet disinfection system, aerobic digester, conveyor belts, dump trucks, vactor truck and stand‑by power plants. Keeps all equipment clean and in operable condition. Participates in decisions for the procurement of parts and supplies needed for operations, repair and maintenance of equipment;
  
  assists with procedures for the custody and accounting for these assets; conducts periodic inventory and prepares inventory reports.
• Applies knowledge of the technical aspects of wastewater treatment plant systems, including primary treatment, secondary treatment, activated sludge, solids handling, disposal systems, disinfection systems, sampling/testing procedures and regulations. Stays abreast of new treatment technologies and methods and best available technology. Knowledge of federal and state regulations applicable to water, distribution, collection, and wastewater treatment systems. Utilizes knowledge of electrical, instrumentation, plumbing and mechanical systems as they relate to the water/wastewater industry.
  
  Uses gas and air monitoring equipment to ensure safe working environments.
• Performs all tasks in a safe manner ensuring all safety policies and guidelines are followed.
• Operates computers including data input and retrieving information.
• Ability to use mathematical skills that apply to water and wastewater. Expected to read and apply written instruction and to work with limited or general supervision.
• Conducts private and public tours of the wastewater, wells, distribution, and collection systems.
• Performs other related work tasks as directed including ground maintenance of facilities. May be asked to work with other City departments as needed.
• Collects samples and performs the following laboratory analysis: pH, temperatures, chlorine residuals (DPD Method), total suspended solids (SM 2540
  
  D), settleable solids, volatile solids, fecal coliform, dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand (SM 5210
  
  B). Logs all analysis and keeps accurate records. Interprets data for process control decision and inputs into a computer data base and understands and practices quality control.
• Ability to calculate: mean cell residence time, sludge volume index, detention time, BOD, F/M ratio, loading rates, gallons to pounds, mg/L to ug/L, chemical dosages and sludge age.
• Perform other tasks and duties as assigned.

• Dependable
• Good problem solver
• Have a positive attitude
• Good communicator
• Team player
• Have a willingness to learn

High School diploma or GED is required. Must be able to obtain a provisional…