Operator

Wastewater Operator Apprentice

The first review of applications will be conducted on March 5, 2026, and every eight days thereafter, until position is filled.

Under close supervision, performs basic labor tasks to maintain streets, storm sewers, traffic signs and pavement markings for the Public Works Department; operates vehicles, equipment, and tools in accordance with all safety regulations.

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Under immediate supervision of experienced operations personnel learns how to maintain and operate plant equipment and processes related to water or wastewater treatment systems on an assigned shift.
• Assists with basic inspection and maintenance of equipment and components in the operation of the water or wastewater treatment facilities; performs work in accordance with all quality standards, safety regulations and procedures; duties will vary according to job assignment and skill level.
• Assists in the basic water or wastewater treatment plant chemical protocols and uses; including making chemical feed adjustments, how to unload, store and uses various chemicals, i.e., sulfuric acid, caustic soda, and chlorine.
• Assists with basic preventive maintenance tasks; assists in the installation, inspection and repair a variety of water or wastewater treatment plant equipment and components.
• Learn how to sample and analyze influents/effluents, source water/product water, feed water and permeate to detect quality variations, interpret results, reading sheets, process test, computerized data, and information trends to identify variations in flow and water quality and make appropriate changes.
• Assists with the maintenance of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical equipment and components; performs maintenance procedures under proper supervision, and learns to read mechanical drawings, designs, schematics, and sketches.
• Assists with operating the water or wastewater plant and wastewater/stormwater collection system according to training and skill level.
• Performs basic preventive maintenance tasks; assists in the installation, inspection and repair a variety of water or wastewater equipment and components.
• Inspects treatment plant equipment, and verifies equipment is functioning within technical parameters.
• Observes variations in operating conditions, and interprets meter and gauge readings, reports operating anomalies to supervisor.
• Cleans and maintains plant work areas, tools, and equipment; collects samples as directed.
• Performs work in compliance with State and Federal environmental and water quality laws and regulations, and City policies and standards.
• Follows all safety rules and regulations and checks that the work zone and all equipment are in safe operating condition; notifies supervisor of maintenance and repair issues; reports unsafe conditions, accidents, injuries, security issues and illegal activities.
• Operates the wastewater systems as assigned; performs preventive maintenance; assists in the installation, inspection and repair a variety of wastewater systems equipment and components.
• Repairs infrastructure, repairs line and pipe breaks; and locates lines and components.
• Uses hand and power tools, gauges, measuring and testing instruments, and specialized tools and equipment according to training and skill level.
• Maintains and operates vehicles and equipment according to City standards. Operates heavy equipment based on job assignment, backhoe, water truck, dump truck and trailer, and jet vacuum truck.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Somerton and the public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and City staff; promotes the City goals and priorities and complies with all City policies and procedures.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• One (1) year experience in plumbing, repairs, electrical, or mechanical OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Knowledge of:

• City policies and procedures.
• Tools and equipment used in the operation of water or wastewater treatment plants.
• State and Federal laws and regulations governing water or wastewater treatment plant operations.

Skills In:

• Using and maintaining tools and equipment to perform maintenance and repair work
• Making routine operating adjustments and repairs to equipment
• Following safe work practices, and verbal and written instructions
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers
• Operating a personal computer utilizing standard and specialized software
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing

License and Certifications Requirements:

• A valid Arizona Driver's License is required
• Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certification from Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)
• Arizona State Commercial Driver's License may be required.

Required certifications must be received within one (1) year of hire.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:

Work is performed indoors, outdoors and at City facilities; requires the ability to bend, reach, stoop, and lift objects; may be exposed to safety hazards and dangerous tools and equipment; safety precautions must be followed, including use of safety equipment.