Wastewater Plant Operator: Optimize Treatment (Day Shift)

City of Appleton Wisconsin; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Long-Term Disability Insurance

457 Deferred Compensation Plan

Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)

Vacation/Paid Time-Off

Paid Holidays

Job summary

City of Appleton is seeking a Wastewater Plant Operator to operate and maintain equipment in wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and disposal. You will monitor plant processes, collect samples, run tests, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations while supporting maintenance and safety programs. The role involves 10-week rotations, day shifts (7:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.), and weekends. Associates or technical training plus WDNR certification preferred; valid driver's license required;

Qualifications

• Associate degree or vocational training in wastewater technology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• Possession or the ability to obtain WDNR Advanced Wastewater Operator certification within 48 months preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor pumps, motors, valves, and other process equipment in wastewater treatment facilities.
• Adjust chemical feed rates and treatment processes as necessary to maintain optimal plant performance.
• Conduct routine inspections of the treatment plant, equipment, and surrounding areas.
• Read, interpret, and record data from meters, gauges, SCADA systems, and other monitoring devices.
• Collect and test water and wastewater samples for compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Perform laboratory tests such as pH, BOD, TSS, fecal coliform, and others as required.
• Maintain accurate logs of tests and analyze results to ensure proper treatment levels.
• Provide preventative and corrective maintenance support on treatment plant equipment, including pumps, blowers, belt filter presses, tanks, and valves.
• Provide observations that support troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical issues.
• Assist Maintenance Division staff with major repairs and maintenance projects when necessary.
• Ensure that wastewater treatment processes meet regulatory requirements under the facility's Wisconsin Pollution Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit and other local, state, and federal laws.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, logs, and reports of plant operations, equipment status, and regulatory compliance.
• Submit timely data required for regulatory reporting functions.
• Follow established safety protocols and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Participate in safety training, emergency response drills, and other related activities.
• Maintain certifications in CPR and First Aid and attend periodic training in confined space entry procedures, forklift and pay loader operation, respiratory protection, lockout/tag out, and fire extinguisher operation.
• Safeguard the environment by ensuring compliance with all discharge permits and environmental regulations.
• Participate in training and development programs to stay current with advancements in wastewater treatment technologies.
• Assist with emergency repairs and plant shutdowns.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Associate degree or vocational training in wastewater technology or related field

WDNR Advanced Wastewater Operator certification (A1, B, C, D, L, P and SS) preferred within 48 months

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

City of Appleton is seeking a Wastewater Plant Operator to operate and maintain equipment in wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and disposal. You will monitor plant processes, collect samples, run tests, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations while supporting maintenance and safety programs. The role involves 10-week rotations, day shifts (7:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.), and weekends. Associates or technical training plus WDNR certification preferred; valid driver's license required;