Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Position Title : Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Pay Grade : G

Department : Water Quality Control

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt

Reports To : Wastewater Plant Superintendent

Safety Sensitive : No

Position Supervises : No

Date Approved : 02 / 2025

On-call Required : Yes

Date Revised : 02 / 2025

Position may be offered as a WW Plant Operator Trainee or a WW Plant Operator IV; depending on qualifications.

Job description statements are : intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title; not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required; and subject to change, as approved by the City Manager.

JOB SUMMARY :

Employees in this class are under general supervision. Work performed in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant.

Examples of work performed : collects composite and grab samples, runs lab analysis as required by state and local regulations. Operates valves and pumps controlling the flow and processing of wastewater. Keeps pumps, tanks, filters and other equipment cleaned, oiled and operating properly. Helps clean the entire facility and mows grass around the plant; operates bio-solids, machinery, hauls bio-solids. Performs other work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES :

Knowledge of the general operations of a wastewater treatment facility

Ability to keep routine records and make reports

Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions

Ability to collect and transport required lab samples correctly

Ability to use laboratory equipment and perform laboratory tests

Ability to work flexible schedule including weekends, nights, and on call, as needed

Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and other employees

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

High school education or equivalent and a valid driver's license are required. Must possess or be able to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver's License within six (6) months from date of employment. Perform mathematical computations accurately. Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

WORKING CONDITIONS : Physical :

Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 100 pounds occasionally. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders as needed. Requires good hand-eye coordination to operate valves, pumps, laboratory equipment, and bio-solids machinery. Operate belt press equipment and perform routine cleaning of pumps, tanks, filters, and other facility equipment. Perform all lawn maintenance tasks, including mowing grass. Collect lab samples, safely handle lab equipment, and perform required tests.

Environmental :

Work in various weather conditions while performing outdoor tasks such as mowing, hauling bio-solids, and facility maintenance. Work around and handle wastewater, bio-solids, and laboratory chemicals safely while adhering to plant safety procedures. Tolerate strong odors and loud equipment noises typical of wastewater treatment facilities. Work in non-accessible and confined areas as required. Work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and on-call shifts as needed. Operate in a wastewater treatment plant setting, which may include wet, humid, and slippery conditions.

FULL TIME BENEFITS SUMMARY :

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Paid Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Account
• Voluntary Benefits
• Pension and 401k Retirement Savings
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick time

City of Cookeville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring decisions are administered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS :

Qualified individuals with known disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the Human Resources department at (931) 520-5289.

Salary : $19 - $27