Wastewater Operator Trainee

City of Haines City; Haines City (FL); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Haines City is hiring a Wastewater Operator in Training to support the wastewater division and ensure proper operation of treatment systems and equipment. The role includes assisting with lab tests, monitoring system performance, and maintaining records.

Training toward a Class C Wastewater License is provided with a 12–18 month timeline. Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma or GED, a valid Florida driver’s license, and the ability to work shifts and respond to

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must obtain Florida Class C Wastewater License within 12–18 months of hire.
• Valid Florida driver’s license required.
• Pre-employment testing, background and credit checks may apply.

Responsibilities

• Support the Wastewater Division to ensure proper operation of treatment systems and equipment.
• Assist with lab tests, sample analysis, and run tests; prepare auto-sampler bottles and interpret results.
• Monitor and adjust system flows and conditions; maintain daily reports.
• Maintain and clean plant and equipment; assist with pump/motor repair and installation as needed.
• Complete required training for State licensure within 12–18 months of hire.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

High School Diploma or GED

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Professional communication

Math for dosage calculations

Reading and interpreting technical mem

Teamwork

Shift work readiness

Emergency response

Valid Florida driver’s license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Florida Class C Wastewater License (preferred)

Job description

• Position open until November 15, 2026***

• Position open until November 15, 2026***

The City of Haines City is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applicants for all positions equally without regard to their race, sex, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. The City of Haines City is a Drug-Free Workplace. Applicants who complete the initial screening process will be required to complete a pre-employment drug screen and physical. Police Department applicants will also be required to take a Polygraph Examination. All information provided by an applicant will be verified for truthfulness and accuracy if a conditional offer of employment is made. Applications and other submitted documents are considered public records.

Salary range is provided to show the min to max compensation for a position. It is not the basis for or guarantee of a starting salary.

Position Function

Under the direction of the Wastewater Superintendent, performs duties necessary to support the Wastewater Division and ensure the proper operation of wastewater treatment systems and equipment. The position is classified as an Operator in Training and is responsible for accomplishing licensure requirements commensurate with the position within 12 - 18 months of hire.

Essential Duties

• Performs duties necessary to support the Wastewater Division to ensure the proper operation of the wastewater treatment systems and equipment. Responsibilities include but are not limited to, assisting with the conducting of lab tests, sample analysis, running tests on various equipment, cleaning bottles for the auto sampler, and determining test results.
• Assists with monitoring and adjusting system flows, treatment process conditions, and storage levels by monitoring the status of production, storage, and delivery systems. Duties include maintaining system reports and records by preparing and logging daily reports into the computer system.
• Assists with maintaining and cleaning plant and plant equipment, and cleaning lab counters and floors. Duties include, but are not limited to, grounds maintenance, and basic pump and motor maintenance. May assist and/or be cross-trained in pump and motor repair, maintenance, and installation.
• Attends training classes, takes tests, and participates in on-the-job-training activities that are required by the State of Florida, as a prerequisite for obtaining a Class C Wastewater Plant Operator License. The position is classified as an Operator in Training and is responsible for accomplishing licensure requirements commensurate with the position within 12 - 18 months of hire.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Environment

Duties are performed primarily within an outdoor and indoor environment or setting. Possible exposure to electrical and chemical hazards; vibration; loud noise; inclement weather; dust, allergens, and mold.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Required knowledge and experience are normally obtained through the completion of a curriculum resulting in either a High School Diploma or GED is required. Must be able to obtain a class C Wastewater License within 12 - 18 months of hire date.
• Florida Class C Wastewater License is preferred.
• Must exhibit attention to detail, accuracy, and safety.
• Must be able to communicate and present oneself professionally.
• Ability to perform or learn basic mathematical equations in the performance of analysis and calculation of dosage.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow technical information, directives, manuals, memos, reports, and other work-related materials.
• Ability to write analysis sheets, reports, inventories, logbooks, purchase orders, and work requests.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working and professional relationships with City employees' officials, and the general public.
• Ability to take and follow oral instructions.
• Ability to work under high demands, short time constraints, and pressure in a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to work shift work and respond to emergency call-outs.

Other Requirements

• Must possess a Valid Florida Class E driver's license.
• Must pass applicable pre-employment testing and background and credit checks.

Special Requirement

This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.