Process Maintenance Worker

City of Ames•50010, IA

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Process Maintenance Worker performs skilled and semi-skilled maintenance and processing work, including manual labor, at the Resource Recovery Plant. The position rotates between two Monday–Friday shifts: 5 a.m.–1 p.m. and 8 a.m.–4 p.m. The City of Ames is establishing a Civil Service eligibility list that may be used to fill one or more vacancies. The list is valid for up to one year after certification. Civil Service employees who previously held status in this classification may apply to voluntarily demote or transfer laterally into a vacancy. The pay range effective July 2026 is $26.21–$33.78 per hour, with step increases at specified service intervals. Training opportunities may support progression to Maintenance Technician I or II, with skill-based pay plans and stated hourly ranges of $33.47–$36.03 and $39.21–$40.47, respectively, upon completing and passing required courses. The role includes operating vehicles and heavy equipment, maintaining processing equipment, performing repairs and general facility maintenance, handling materials, and keeping related records. Work is conducted indoors and outdoors and may involve physically demanding tasks, hazardous conditions, respirator use, and confined spaces. Employees are expected to follow safety procedures and contribute to the City’s Excellence Through People values and a Total City Perspective. After the probationary period, employees must reside within the specified residency area within three months; an additional extension of up to three months may be allowed with documentation of a financial commitment to move. The selection process may include an evaluation of education and experience, interviews, reference checks, and a criminal background check.

Requirements

Two years of general labor experience involving tools and equipment commonly used in general construction, maintenance, and repair work.
Valid driver’s license.
Obtain a valid type A Commercial Driver’s License and any required endorsements within six months of appointment.
Knowledge of the types and uses of common and power tools, materials, and equipment used in general construction, maintenance, and repair work.
Knowledge of precautions needed to work safely with and around mechanized construction and maintenance equipment.
Skill in using tools, machinery, motorized vehicles, and other items common to general construction, maintenance, and repair work.
Skill in using measurement and diagnostic equipment common to general construction, maintenance, and repair work.
Basic computer knowledge.
Ability to perform manual tasks requiring physical strength and endurance under variable weather conditions.
Ability to understand and carry out specific verbal or written instructions.
Ability to operate motorized vehicles and other motorized equipment.
Ability to calculate or estimate quantities of materials needed.
Ability to lead a maintenance team.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens or public service organizations, supervisors, coworkers, other City employees, and vendors.
Ability to wear a dust mask or respirator.
After completing the probationary period, reside within the designated residency area within three months, subject to the stated possible extension.

Nice To Haves

Qualifications above the minimum may receive preference.
Training and successful completion of required courses may qualify employees for progression to Maintenance Technician I or II.

Responsibilities

Drive and operate trucks, tractors, forklifts, end loaders, and other motorized equipment with various attachments.
Monitor and maintain shredders and conveyors.
Fabricate special equipment for maintenance or construction projects.
May act as a lead worker for a maintenance team.
Estimate parts and materials needed for maintenance projects.
Read and interpret electric test equipment and vibration meters.
May assist higher-level maintenance staff with 480-volt electrical systems and equipment after others have de-energized them.
Make mechanical and non-mechanical repairs to equipment.
Perform grounds, facilities, general maintenance, and cleanup activities.
Load and unload materials manually or using lift equipment.
Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, construction drawings, and SDS sheets.
Receive or generate printed materials such as memos, blueprints, instructions, maps, and schedules.
Maintain records related to equipment and materials usage and other job activities.
Perform duties in accordance with safety policies and procedures.
Maintain an inventory of equipment and materials.
Contribute to the City’s Excellence Through People values and maintain a Total City Perspective.