Wastewater Collections Operator

Salary : $23.23 - $34.85 Hourly

Location : Avondale, AZ

Job Type : Full Time

Job Number : 2025-00020

Department : Public Works

Opening Date : 01 / 29 / 2025

Closing Date : 2 / 16 / 2025 5 : 00 PM Arizona

FLSA : Non-Exempt

Job Description

The Wastewater Collections Operator performs a variety of daily tasks to operate, maintain, and repair the City's wastewater collection system. Work includes preventative and reactive O&M activities such as cleaning, inspection, documentation, and repair of the collection system.

This position works with and utilizes specialized wastewater collection system equipment such as a Vacuum / Boom truck and CCTV vehicle to perform the necessary duties. All work is documented by this position daily by creating and closing out work orders with the City's asset management system.

The Wastewater Collections Operator reports to the Wastewater Collections Supervisor but will work under the direction of the Lead Wastewater Collections Operator and Senior Wastewater Collections Operator(s) to ensure proper operation of the City's wastewater system.

The Wastewater Collections Operator is responsible for responding to emergency situations and is required to participate in the 'on-call' program and will respond to after-hour callbacks on a rotating schedule, as needed. Work may be performed independently or in small teams.

Essential Functions

Performs routine and preventative maintenance activities on the City's wastewater collections system, including the sewer cleaning program, utilizing a combination sewer cleaning truck.

Assists with the CCTV inspection program which records, identifies, and scores defects within the City's sewer infrastructure utilizing the NASSCO scoring system.

Performs related duties by responding to emergency call-outs and investigating and evaluating customer complaints related to sewer service such as sewer back-ups, lift station failures, and odor or vector complaints. Participates in the rotational "On-Call" duties required by the position.

Performs daily checks and performs maintenance on the City's lift station sites as needed. Operates various wastewater equipment including but not limited to combination sewer cleaning trucks, CCTV inspection vehicles, and utility crane trucks.

Utilizes the electronic work order system with the City's CMMS software on a daily basis to accurately record and reflect proper equipment, labor and asset utilization for each assignment.

Investigates customer complaints related to sewer service such as possible service blockages or SSOs. Works under the direction of the Lead or Supervisor to resolve customer complaints as allowed per City code.

Follows all established safety procedures, utilizes safety equipment (PPE), and monitors the work environment to ensure the safety of employees and other individuals. Participates and completes annual regulatory and safety training.

Assists the other Wastewater Collection Operators as needed with water system Operation & Maintenance tasks as directed. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or GED equivalency is required.

Work requires a general knowledge or interest in the principles and practices of sewer system operation and maintenance, lift station operation, and maintenance or operation of heavy equipment. Knowledge obtained through a vocational school or technical college is preferred.

One (1) year of experience working with a wastewater collections system, operating heavy equipment, and / or experience in a construction-related field is required.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered if sufficient to perform the essential duties of the role as listed herein.

Must possess an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Wastewater Collections Grade I Certification or be able to obtain the Certification within six (6) months of hire and must be able to maintain certification for the duration of employment.

Must possess an Arizona Class 'A' CDL upon hire and must be able to obtain a tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire and maintain license for the duration of employment.

Supplemental Information

Work requires the ability to read system schematics, construction plans, specifications, regulations, permits, Safety Data Sheets, O&M manuals, standard operating procedures, and more.

Work requires the ability to perform general math including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Work requires the ability to write work orders, time sheets, customer contact forms, log books, and general correspondence.

Planning responsibilities include effective time management for daily work assignments and inspections; scheduling jobs; contributing to various projects; planning street or lane closures and managing the needed tools, equipment, and materials to complete assigned tasks.

Works directly with and collaborates with other Collections Operators, Senior Collections Operators, and other Public Works staff. Assumes responsibility for completing assigned projects with available resources.

Work is governed by broad instructions, objectives, and policies. Completes tasks under the guidance of the Wastewater Collections Supervisor, the Lead Wastewater Collections Operator, and other system operators. Must exercise initiative, independent analytical skills, and evaluative judgment.

This position makes contact with others within the organization. These contacts may involve similar work units or departments within the City, which may be involved in decision-making or provide approval for purchases or projects.

This position makes frequent contact with outside entities, groups, and the general public and must represent the City in a professional manner, including attitude and appearance when required.

Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner is required.

Employee must maintain regular in-person attendance.

The City of Avondale offers a competitive total compensation package.

For detailed information on the City of Avondale's benefits visit

Select from the options below your highest level of completed education.

• Not completed High School
• High school or GED
• Associates or Vocational Degree
• Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree or higher

How many years of experience do you have working with a wastewater collections system, operating heavy equipment, and / or experience in a construction-related field?

Do you currently possess an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Wastewater Collections Grade I Certification?

Do you possess a valid Arizona Class A CDL Driver's License?

Do you currently have the tanker endorsement on your CDL or do you have the ability to obtain the tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire?

Required Question

Salary : $23 - $35