Water Reclamation Facility Operator I

City of Ottawa; Ottawa (KS); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Ottawa is seeking a WRF Operator I to oversee operations and maintenance of the Water Reclamation Facility and lift stations. You will run equipment, collect samples, perform lab analyses, and maintain records under supervision.

The role requires basic knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and biological systems, along with the ability to work rotating/extended shifts and a valid driver's license. Apply to join the city’s utilities team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1–3 years of wastewater operator experience preferred.
• Must progressively acquire Wastewater Operator certification by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment up to and including Class II within 12 months of the first eligibility date; Class IV preferred by five-year anniversary.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and be insurable by City’s carrier.

Responsibilities

• Operate motorized vehicles and equipment at the facility.
• Collect samples and conduct laboratory analyses of wastewater.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory equipment; record lab data.
• Inspect lift stations and troubleshoot equipment.
• Prepare reports and enter data into computerized spreadsheets.
• Perform building and grounds maintenance.
• Maintain ultraviolet disinfection system and replace components.
• Prepare waste sludge for transfer to landfill.

Skills

Electrical knowledge

Mechanical knowledge

Biological systems knowledge

Laboratory testing knowledge

Computer systems operation

English communication

Rotating shifts

Education

High school diploma

Wastewater Operator certification progress

Tools

Lab equipment

Heavy machinery operation

Job description

Summary:

Under the supervision of the Utilities Superintendent - WRF, the WRF Operator I performs skilled and semi‑skilled labor in the maintenance and operation of the Water Reclamation Facility and lift station.

Essential Job Functions:

• Operate various types of motorized vehicles, equipment, pumps, motors, and related machinery.
• Collect samples at sources of supply and perform technical, bacteriological, and chemical examinations of raw, settled, and filtered sewage samples.
• Prepare and maintain equipment used for laboratory testing; keep accurate records of lab data.
• Inspect and maintain lift stations. Check equipment daily for proper operation, grease bearings, change filters, and troubleshoot/correct malfunctions.
• Prepare necessary written documentation and reports. Enter data on computerized spread sheets.
• Perform general building and grounds maintenance work; mow grass and remove snow/ice with Bobcat, snow blower, and/or shovel.
• Climb ladders/stairs to access remote areas of plant and lift stations.
• Maintain ultraviolet disinfection system: clean/replace lamp sleeves, lamps, plugs, ballasts, and sleeve wipers.
• Prepare waste sludge for transfer to landfill: reduce water content, convert from liquid to solid form, and set/operate belt press.

Ancillary Job Functions:

• Observe operation of plant equipment and ensure proper treatment of wastewater; make adjustments or repairs as needed.
• Notify Superintendent when supplies are needed.
• Serve on emergency call-in system.
• Comply with all City ordinances and practices.
• Assist other departments and perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One to three years of wastewater operator experience is preferred.
• Must progressively acquire Wastewater Operator certification by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment up to and including Class II within 12 months of the first eligibility date for obtaining a given certification level. Class IV certification preferred by five-year employment anniversary.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and be insurable by City’s carrier.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Basic knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and biological systems.
• Knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, chemicals, gases, and laboratory testing equipment.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment, pumps, and other related equipment.
• Ability to operate computer systems.
• Ability and willingness to work rotating and extended shifts.
• Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain successful working relationships with other employees, City officials, businesses, and the public.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work as well as concentrate on multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to work under general supervision and make responsible decisions.
• Ability to use good judgment and think quickly and rationally in difficult or stressful situations.

Work Environment:

• May be required to work in confined spaces, hazardous traffic conditions, or high/dangerous places.
• May be exposed to wet/humid conditions, inclement outdoor weather, vibration, mechanical oils, airborne particles/fumes, moving mechanical parts, risk of electrical shock, potentially hazardous bodily fluids, potentially hazardous or cancer-causing agents/chemicals, or loud noise levels.

Physical Abilities:

• Must be able to sit, talk, hear, feel attributes of objects, grasp, push, stand, walk, drive, reach with hands/arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, balance, operate mechanical equipment, and move up and down from/to sitting position on the floor.
• Must be able to have repetitive wrist/hand/finger movement and manual dexterity.
• Must have clarity of vision, three-dimensional vision, ability to identify/distinguish colors, and precise hand-eye coordination.
• Must be able to lift 100 or more pounds.
• Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.

Date Open: November 6, 2026

Date Closed: December 6, 2026

Range: $21.12 to $29.57 per hour

Residency:

Regular full-time employees are required to establish and maintain residency within a driving distance of 35 miles of the Ottawa City Hall within one year from hire.

E-Mail Confirmation:

After your application has been received by the City of Ottawa, you will receive confirmation by e-mail. Please check your SPAM filter or JUNK Mail. If you have not received confirmation within 48 hours of submitting your application, please call 785-229-3634 to verify application has been received. For additional information, contact Human Resources at 785-229-3634 or e-mail [e-mail].

Anyone with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at 785-229-3634 at least two days prior to a scheduled test or interview.

The City of Ottawa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.