Utility Operator I (Wastewater Plant)

JOB
Would you like to provide a vital service to your community, work with a tight-knit group of individuals, and use your mechanical knowledge? We are currently accepting applications for a Utility Operator I position at the Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Community Services Department. This position is responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of pumps, motors, and auxiliary apparatus for the wastewater treatment plant and lift stations.Requirements: High School diploma or equivalent (GED, etc.)Possess or obtain (within 6 months of hire) and maintain a valid Wisconsin Class A, B, C, D CDL with tanker endorsement and no air brake restrictionsPossess a thorough understanding of generators, pumps, electric motors, wastewater instrumentation and working knowledge of hydraulics and electricityAble to report to the Wastewater Treatment Plant within 30 minutesPreferred Qualifications: Associate degree in a related fieldState of Wisconsin DNR Wastewater Operator certificationAdditional Reasons to Apply: Receive 40 hours of vacation on your first day of employment, plus earn 80 hours of additional vacation time in the first yearReceive 3 paid floating holidays and 8 paid regular holidays (in a calendar year)Potential to qualify for Public Service Loan ForgivenessOther excellent fringe benefits (paid sick leave, health insurance, life insurance, etc.)!Typical Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.Application deadline: Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Interviews expected to take place Friday, March 13, 2026. Candidates will be notified via email if selected to interview.**Utility Operator I (Wastewater Plant) Recruitment Snapshot**JOB DESCRIPTIONPOSITION SCOPE Under general supervision, is responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of pumps, motors, and auxiliary apparatus for a municipal wastewater treatment plant and lift stations, in keeping with prescribed State and Federal regulations. This position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment machinery and equipment. This position must have a thorough understanding of generators, pumps, electric motors, wastewater treatment processes, instrumentation, and auxiliary apparatus. This position should have a working knowledge of the principles of hydraulics and electricity and have the ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency operating conditions. A Utility Operator I may be assigned to a certain division, but can be moved to assist another division to complete a task/project as needed. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Operates generators, pumps, and treatment equipment and maintains proper pressures. Operates all auxiliary apparatus used in the operation of a large pumping plant and lift stations. Checks, cleans, lubricates, and makes repairs to plant equipment. Observes, reads, and interprets instruments and gauges for the efficient operation of the plant. Operates switchboard and keeps logs and other records of all operations. Operates sludge hauling and disposal equipment. Available for off hour emergency calls. May be tasked with assisting with laboratory duties as needed. Must be able to report to the Wastewater Treatment Plant within 30 minutes. NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Performs related duties as required. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/CERTIFICATIONS A High School Diploma or equivalent (GED, etc.) is required. An associate degree in a related field and/or State of Wisconsin DNR Wastewater Operator certification is preferred. Must possess or obtain (within 6 months of hire) and maintain a valid Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s license Class A, B, C, D with tanker endorsement and no air brake restrictions. SKILLS/ABILITIES Must have a thorough understanding of generators, pumps, electric motors, wastewater treatment processes, instrumentation, and auxiliary apparatus. Should have a working knowledge of the principles of hydraulics and electricity and have the ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency operating conditions. Maintains prompt, predictable, and regular physical attendance. Must be able to take direction and work well with others. Must be able to concentrate and perform accurately. Must be able to react to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned. Must be able to back-up fellow co-workers. SUPERVISION/DIRECTION RECEIVEDWastewater Plant Supervisor, Utilities Manager, Utilities Engineer, Community Services Director SUPERVISION/DIRECTION EXERCISED May act as a lead worker for plant operations and maintenance. WORK ENVIRONMENT This position is classified at the Heavy level, as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles. Job consists of a combination of sitting, standing, walking and driving. There may be some exposure to heat, cold, wet, and slippery conditions. In addition, there may be occasional exposure to dust, noise and chemicals. Lift on occasion 50 to 100 lbs., frequently 25 to 50 lbs., &/or constantly 10 to 20 lbs. Working in confined spaces is also likely. The City of Eau Claire is an Equal Opportunity Employer.