Storm-Ready Wastewater Plant Operator I

Panama City, City of (FL); Panama City (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Panama City is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I to support the Director of Public Works in keeping the WWTP running safely and efficiently. The role involves collecting samples, adjusting basins, recording data, and performing maintenance and manual labor as needed.

Emergency essential duties include readiness for storms and severe weather, with overtime and after-hours availability. A high school diploma and Florida operator license are required.

Qualifications

• Operates Sequential Batch Reactor and/or Bardepho wastewater treatment processes.
• Reads and follows complex manuals and written resources for decision-making.
• Knowledge of FDEP SOPs for field testing and sampling.
• Familiarity with plant mechanical equipment and controls.
• Strong math skills: basic arithmetic to geometry.
• Maintains operation logs and sample records.
• Capable of performing required manual labor.
• Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Skilled at routine equipment repairs and maintenance.
• Develops cooperative working relationships across departments and with vendors and the public.
• Familiar with methods, tools, and safety practices in wastewater work.
• Understands and relays verbal, written, and digital instructions.
• Complies with city safety policies for vehicles, equipment, and facilities.

Responsibilities

• Collects samples, calibrates field meters and performs field testing.
• Adjusts equipment and basins as directed.
• Maintains treatment plant operation data.
• Maintains chemical feeders, computers, sensors, equipment, UV disinfection, chlorine and de-chlorination systems.
• Reads and understands operations and control manuals.
• Performs cleaning duties within the plant.
• Changes filters in plant areas.
• Interprets and evaluates chemical levels.
• Adjusts chemical levels within the plants.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Process operation know-how

Reading & comprehension

Field testing

Safety awareness

Mathematical calculations

Record keeping

Manual labor

Oral & written communication

Equipment repair

Team collaboration

Hazard awareness

Verbal/written instruction parsing

Compliance with safety policies

Education

High School diploma or GED

Florida Class C Wastewater Operator’s license

Valid driver's license

Job description

The City of Panama City is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I to support the Director of Public Works in keeping the WWTP running safely and efficiently. The role involves collecting samples, adjusting basins, recording data, and performing maintenance and manual labor as needed.

Emergency essential duties include readiness for storms and severe weather, with overtime and after-hours availability. A high school diploma and Florida operator license are required.