Wastewater Reclamation Plant Operator

City of Corvallis; Corvallis (OR); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking city organization as a Wastewater Reclamation Plant Operator, where you'll play a crucial role in safeguarding public health and the environment. This position involves maintaining plant operability, monitoring treatment processes, and responding to customer inquiries. You'll be part of a dedicated team that values sustainability and community service, ensuring compliance with state regulations while managing complex operational challenges. If you're passionate about environmental stewardship and possess the necessary skills, this opportunity is your chance to make a meaningful impact!

Qualifications

• Three years' experience in a Class III Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Plant.
• Specialized training in wastewater treatment required for certification.

Responsibilities

• Monitors plant operation and treatment processes for efficiency.
• Responds to customer service questions and concerns effectively.

Skills

SCADA Systems

DCS Systems

Analytical Skills

Customer Service

Communication Skills

Education

High School Diploma

Associate's Degree in Wastewater Technology

Tools

Computer Databases

Plant Equipment

Job description

Position Summary

The Wastewater Reclamation Plant Operator performs duties in alignment with requirements set forth by the Department of Environmental Quality and Environmental Protection Agency to protect public health and the environment through effective operation of the Wastewater Reclamation Plant. Responsibilities include maintaining plant operability, monitoring treatment process efficiency, minimizing system overflow occurrences, and protecting the investment made in the infrastructure by being responsive to customer concerns and/or system failures. These tasks are illustrative only and may include other related duties.

Full-Time 40 hours per week
AFSCME-represented position
12-month probationary period

Must meet all qualifications and requirements as listed in the position description.

Essential Functions

Monitors and controls plant operation and treatment processes in a manner that maximizes treatment efficiency.

Meets State regulations and completes plant operation shift duties, including Duty Operator rotation requirements. Coordinates and monitors day-to-day activities including making complex process control changes.

Responds to customer service questions and concerns. Provides information to the public through tours, one-on-one interactions, and presentations.

Participates in stand-by responsibilities of being ready and able to respond to alarms or call-outs as needed to ensure continuous operation and regulatory compliance. Responds to emergency calls, including after-hours response within required timeframe.

Enters data into computer databases, operational logs, and records for use in plant process control. Maintains records and reports consistent with local, County, State and Federal requirements.

Performs preventive maintenance and routine modifications and repairs on plant equipment, buildings, and grounds. Assists with major maintenance and coordinates associated efforts with other work groups and contractors in troubleshooting mechanical and electrical problems as they arise.

Participates in short and long range planning regarding daily activities, process control, maintenance, safety, plant modifications, and water quality. Identifies and assists in addressing plant and system needs. Recommends and implements new projects and programs. Coordinates activities and communications with other operators and work groups.

Estimates and manages chemical inventories and supplies needed for plant operations. Assists in budget preparation process on an as-needed basis.

Assists with the operations, maintenance and scheduling of the wastewater biosolids management program. Responds to overflows and/or other water contamination problems.

Performs process control laboratory testing and analysis and resolves problems as they arise.

Assists administrative staff and performs other related duties. Serves on internal committees when required.

Performs as a member of a team, assisting and contributing with development of work group goals and objectives.

Complies with all safety rules and practices and performs work in a safe manner.

Acts ethically and honestly; applies ethical standards of behavior to daily work activities and interactions. Builds confidence in the City through own actions.

Complies with all Administrative Policies. Perform work in accordance with Council Policies and Municipal Code sections applicable to the position.

Delivers excellent customer service to diverse audiences. Responds to customer service requests, questions and complaints. Maintains a positive customer service demeanor and deliver service in a respectful and patient manner.

Maintains effective work relationships.

Arrives to work, meetings, and other work-related functions on time and maintain regular job attendance.

Operates and drives a motor vehicle and/or equipment safely and legally.

Qualifications and Skills

Education and Experience
High school diploma, or equivalent. Associates Degree in Wastewater Technology preferred.

Three years' experience in a Class III Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Specialized training in wastewater treatment providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position and meet the requirements to obtain the Oregon DEQ Wastewater Operator certifications required for this position.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Ability to use SCADA and DCS systems to monitor and operate wastewater reclamation plant.

Knowledge and understanding of work-related safety practices, OSHA and environmental rules and regulations, particularly in regards to work in confined space, and/or hazardous conditions.

Knowledge and understanding of wastewater treatment technical processes, procedures, and operations, as well as local, County, State, and Federal regulatory requirements. Ability to use sound judgment, with minimal supervision, in applying this knowledge to immediate/emergency situations and in prioritizing ongoing responsibilities.

Ability to plan and/or lead shift activities, operate the plant independently, develop procedures, and implement new programs.

Effective communication, analytical, customer service, and interpersonal skills.

Capable of advanced decision making regarding assessment of immediate situations, available options, and selection of appropriate methods and procedures, material availability and ordering, equipment utilization and response to customer issues.

Ability to work varying shifts, dependent on plant flow, customer demand and time of year. May involve working overtime as needed.

Ability to get along well with co-workers.

Ability to use a computer to perform essential functions of the position.

Thorough knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving.

Special Requirements
Ability to pass a pre-employment background and/or criminal history check

Oregon DEQ Wastewater Operator Grade Level II. Oregon DEQ Wastewater Operator Grade Level III certification within one (1) year of appointment.

Oregon DEQ Wastewater Operator Grade Level IV certification within five (5) years of appointment.

First Aid and CPR certification, Confined Space Entry, and Forklift Operation or the ability to obtain within one (1) year of appointment.

Possession of and the ability to maintain a valid Oregon Driver's License. Ability to obtain and maintain an Oregon Class A commercial driver's license with tank endorsement and no air brake restriction within one (1) year of appointment if assigned primary responsibility for the Bio-Solids program.

Must be able to respond within 60 minutes or less to the Wastewater Reclamation Plant for after-hours calls or emergencies prior to the end of probationary period.

Demonstrable commitment to sustainability.

Demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing equity, diversity and inclusion.

The individual shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of the individual or others in the workplace.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants must submit an online application located on the City of Corvallis website (click on "Apply" above).

Position is open until filled.

Applications must be received by 8:00 AM on Monday June 16, 2025, to be considered with the first review.

Applicants are required to include a cover letter and resume with the online application; however, resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed online application. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted/considered.

An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer in Compliance with ADA.