Wastewater Control Operator Trainee​/Relief Operator

Public Utilities Department

Salary Range: $19.77 - $32.62 Hourly / $41,121.60 - $67,849.60 Annually

FLSA Position Class:
Full-time, Non-Exempt

Work Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 7AM - 3:30PM

Posting Closing Date:
October 13, 2026

This position is responsible for learning all aspects of the operation and maintenance of the City’s wastewater treatment facilities; responsible for assisting certified wastewater control operators with duties and maintenance of the plant after successfully completing orientation and trainee instruction. This position is designed for the progressive movement into a Certified Shift Operator position; therefore, the candidate hired for this position will be the next staff member to fill an open shift when it becomes available.

NOTE:

Employee may be required to respond to a disaster, either natural or man-made, to serve the citizens of Statesville and meet the needs of the organization, which may result in the assignment of other duties and take precedence over duties described in this job description. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive.

• Learns to properly operate and maintain all aspects of the wastewater treatment facility under the instruction and oversight of a certified operator.
• Learns the fundamentals of proper wastewater treatment by participating in a wide variety of on-the-job tasks and through classes, correspondence courses, and general reading.
• Learns to make necessary adjustments to the treatment process to ensure compliance with all rules, regulations, and the facility's standard operating procedures.
• Learns to perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance on plant equipment and structures; assists the maintenance staff as necessary with major or unusual maintenance tasks.
• Takes readings and measurements concerning unit processes, collects samples, records measurements, and helps maintain accurate records of plant operational and maintenance functions.
• Learns to perform basic physical and chemical analysis to monitor treatment efficiency.
• Informs the Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator of any observed or suspected problems, then proceeds with corrective or preventative action, as instructed.
• Learns and demonstrates appropriate safety precautions and procedures for all tasks.
• Assists in grounds and building maintenance.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED.

• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license, or any valid driver’s license with ability to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license within 60 days of establishing a permanent residence in North Carolina.
• Ability to obtain a Wastewater Operator I Certification within one (1) year.
• Ability to obtain a Wastewater Operator II Certification within two (2) years.
• The City of Statesville requires no less than a State of North Carolina Wastewater Operator II Certification to remain employed as a WWTP Operator.

• Knowledge of the operating characteristics, maintenance requirements, tools, and equipment required of wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Knowledge of the state and federal water and wastewater treatment quality regulations.
• Knowledge of hydraulic, chemical, and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and the necessary safety precautions for this work.
• Ability to detect defects in the operation of mechanical equipment and determine proper remedial measures.
• Ability to conduct routine water quality tests, read meters and charts accurately, and then…