Apprentice Wastewater Operator/ Maintainer

City of Kalamazoo • Kalamazoo, MI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level training position performing routine wastewater treatment plant operation and maintenance work. An employee in this class is considered in training for the class of Public Services Operator/Maintainer I. The work is performed in accordance with procedures outlined by the Wastewater Operations and Maintenance Supervisory Staff. Through successful completion of the probationary period, on-the-job training, and self-study, a Public Services Operator/Maintainer Apprentice is expected to acquire sufficient knowledge and skills in primary, secondary, tertiary treatments, solids dewatering and disposal, and maintenance to be able to pass the MDEQ Wastewater Class D License, the MWEA Maintenance Grade I exam, and the in-house Operator/Maintainer I Test. Employees must, as a condition of continued employment, pass, as outlined in the AFSCME Labor Agreement, the first test offered by the State after they are determined eligible to take the MDEQ Wastewater Class D License exam.

Requirements

• Knowledge and skill in mechanical repair and diagnosis, and in keeping records and communicating in written form.
• Minimum of a high school diploma or a GED.
• Completion of standard high school courses in chemistry, math, biology, and related sciences.
• Ability to perform duties in a timely manner.
• Ability to work well with other employees and supervisors.
• Ability to perform duties such as those listed in the Examples of Duties section.
• Ability to pass entry level general aptitude test with a minimum score of 70%.
• An in-house written test will be provided for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Related college course work or degree preferred and/or associate degree in mechanical technology.
• Some operational experience in an industrial or municipal wastewater or water treatment plant.
• Experience as a semi-skilled mechanic in the maintenance of motors, pumps, and related equipment associated with water or wastewater treatment preferred.
• Completion of standard high school courses in biology, chemistry, math, or related scientific areas; related college course work or degree preferred and/or associate degree in mechanical technology; or any combination of training and experience which provides the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assists Public Services Operator/Maintainers in routine operational, preventive maintenance, and demand maintenance duties.
• Cleans and maintains wastewater plant equipment to facilitate flow and treatment of wastewater.
• Makes inspections of Treatment Plant computerized components and related mechanical and electrical equipment as assigned by the shift supervisor or designee.
• Identifies operational or maintenance problems.
• Assists in making routine repairs to pumps, mixers, motors, and equipment.
• Performs routine janitorial and grounds maintenance duties; keeps records as assigned.

Benefits

• The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED