Assistant Plant Operator

City of Saskatoon; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 71,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Saskatoon is seeking a dedicated Wastewater Treatment Operator to support the Operations Manager and Plant Operator in daily plant operations at the wastewater facility. This role requires ensuring efficient plant performance, monitoring SCADA systems, and maintaining safety standards.

The candidate will perform routine maintenance, operate pumps and grit chamber equipment, and assist with odour surveys and compliance investigations.

Qualifications

• Requires Class 3 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification plus four years' wastewater treatment experience (two as Assistant Plant Operator or Operator).
• Possession of a Certificate of Completion for California State University courses for Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants Volumes I & II and Advanced Wastewater Treatment.
• Possession of a valid Fireman’s Certificate.
• Possession of a valid, recognized first aid certificate.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver’s Licence with a safe driving record.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Wastewater Treatment Plant and pumping stations, alarms, security, and SCDA reports.
• Inspect instrument readouts and plant equipment; perform minor repairs as required.
• Operate pumps, rakes, skimmers, and grit chamber equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and collect wastewater samples for tests.
• Handle, monitor, and adjust chemicals in treatment process.
• Service and clean machinery; report deficiencies to Plant Operator.
• Participate in training and staff meetings; conduct tours and odour surveys.
• Ensure safety rules are followed and maintain plant security; perform duties of Plant Operator as needed.

Skills

Wastewater knowledge

Safety practices

Record readings

Hazardous chemicals

Emergency response

Supervisory ability

Education

Class 3 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification

Two-year related post-secondary program

California State University wastewater certificates

Fireman’s Certificate

First aid certificate

Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver’s Licence

Tools

SCADA

Job description

Term:2PermanentFull Time positions available.

Closing Date: 10/13/2026

Labour Group: CUPE 47

This position is a CUPE 47 position and will be filled in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Should it not be filled in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, external candidates will be considered.

Job Summary

Under supervision of the Operations Manager (Wastewater Treatment), and the direction of the Plant Operator, this position performs a variety of duties assisting with wastewater treatment plant operation.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Monitors the Wastewater Treatment Plant and sewage pumping stations operation, alarm systems, plant security systems and telephones by utilizing the System Control and Data Acquisition (SCDA) systems. Reviews and compiles manually generated reports and SCDA system reports.
• Observes and inspects instrument readouts and plant equipment. Makes minor repairs, as required.
• Operates wastewater pumps, automatic rakes, skimmers and other powered equipment used in wastewater treatment and disposal. Operates bucket and hoist in the grit chamber to remove grit from tanks.
• Performs routine maintenance of process equipment and related areas, e.g. skimming foam from bioreactors and clarifiers and removing scum from paddles. Acquires wastewater samples and performs tests, as required, at various treatment stages. Adjusts pumps as scheduled.
• Handles, monitors and adjusts chemicals used in the wastewater treatment process and remote lift stations.
• Services and cleans machinery and equipment.
• Reports operating deficiencies to the Plant Operator.
• Participates in training, e.g. operating procedures, equipment operation and safety, and staff meetings, as required.
• Performs duties such as conducting tours, odour surveys, and odour compliance investigations.
• Ensures plant security is maintained and occupational health and safety rules and regulations are adhered to and promotes personal hygiene.
• Performs the duties of the Plant Operator, as required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience Requirements:

• Class 3 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification plus four years’ wastewater treatment experience, two of the four acting as an Assistant Plant Operator or a Plant Operator. Or Graduation from a two-year, post-secondary program in a related field (water resources engineering technology, environmental engineering technology, chemical engineering technology or civil engineering technology), successful completion of Class 3 Wastewater Treatment Operator Exam plus two years’ experience acting as an Assistant Plant Operator or a Plant Operator.
• Possession of a Certificate of Completion for the California State University courses for Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants Volumes I and II and Advanced Wastewater Treatment.
• Possession of a valid Fireman’s Certificate.
• Possession of a valid, recognized first aid certificate.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver’s Licence.
• Current driver’s abstract from SGI demonstrating a safe driving record.

Knowledge, Abilties and Skills:

• Knowledge of wastewater treatment procedures, operations and general practices for the care and safe operation of plant equipment.
• Knowledge of methods, chemicals, materials and tools used in wastewater treatment.
• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
• Ability to perform minor repairs on plant equipment.
• Ability to record meter readings and make arithmetic calculations accurately.
• Ability to work with hazardous chemicals.
• Ability to remain calm during emergency situations.
• Ability to supervise the work of subordinate staff and assume responsibility for the operation of the shift.
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with other employees and the public.
• Physical ability to perform the assigned duties.

Additional Requirements

Shift work is involved.

Weekly Hours:38.75

Salary Range:$70,968.96to$76,760.16CADper hour or per annum (2023rates)

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The City of Saskatoon offers an inclusive workplace that embraces diverse backgrounds. As an equity partner with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC), the City commits to diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplaces. By having our workforce reflect the community we serve, we support the realization of miyo-pimatisiwin, (me-o-pi-ma-ti-si-win) “the good life”, for all residents. To learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the City, please visit Saskatoon.ca/diversity

Accommodation

The City of Saskatoon strives to provide an accessible and inclusive workplace for all, including throughout the application and selection process through reasonable access and accommodations. Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please email [e-mail].

While we appreciate all applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.