Wastewater Operator Trainee

Job Type: Full-time, Entry-level with Training
Department: Public Works/Utilities
Reports to: Wastewater Operations Superintendent

About This Opportunity

Join the City of Gaylord’s essential infrastructure team as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Trainee! This entry-level position offers comprehensive hands-on training in municipal wastewater management while contributing to environmental protection and public health in our community.

You’ll gain valuable experience in water treatment processes, laboratory analysis, equipment maintenance, and regulatory compliance while working alongside experienced professionals in a supportive learning environment.

What You’ll Do

Operations & Monitoring

  • Monitor and operate wastewater treatment equipment, pumps, filters, and control systems
  • Maintain sewage pump stations and optimize treatment processes
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues and ensure efficient plant operations

Laboratory & Compliance

  • Collect and analyze wastewater samples for chemical, physical, and biological characteristics
  • Maintain detailed records and prepare regulatory compliance reports
  • Conduct quality control testing on laboratory equipment
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations

Maintenance & Technical Work

  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on treatment equipment
  • Calibrate and repair monitoring devices, flowmeters, and control systems
  • Handle hazardous materials safely according to regulatory requirements
  • Support facility improvements and process optimization projects

Complete Job Description: JD WWTP Operator Trainee 2025

What We’re Looking For

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Michigan driver’s license
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Basic math skills including percentages, ratios, and chemistry calculations
  • Commitment to safety and environmental compliance
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively
  • Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various conditions

Preferred Experience:

  • 1-2 years in related industrial, maintenance, or technical field
  • Technical education in environmental science, chemistry, or engineering
  • Laboratory or analytical testing background
  • Municipal utilities or public works experience

Training & Development

  • Comprehensive on-the-job training program
  • Support for required certifications including:
    • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 6 months
    • Michigan Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification (Class C) within 12-18 months
  • Continuing education opportunities

Schedule & Benefits

  • Standard full-time schedule with occasional weekend rotation (less than half day monthly)
  • Emergency call-out rotation participation
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Professional development support

Special Requirements

  • Must reside within City of Gaylord or within 20 miles of city limits
  • Must pass pre-employment physical and drug screening and be entered into the random drug testing pool.
  • Available for emergency response and occasional overtime

Work Environment

This role involves both indoor and outdoor work in various weather conditions. You’ll work with mechanical equipment, laboratory instruments, and treatment plant systems. The position requires physical stamina for climbing, working in confined spaces, and exposure to industrial environments.

Ready to Start Your Career in Environmental Services?

The City of Gaylord offers a supportive work environment, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our community’s environmental health and infrastructure. To apply, fill out an application below. Application deadline: Until filled. This is an hourly position that is part of the AFSCME bargaining unit.

Wages: Trainee: $23.37 per hour.

An applicant with a Class C and Class D license: $28.89 with an increase to $33.56 after 1 year.

Wastewater Operator Trainee

Application

Work Experience 1
Work Experience 2
Reference 1
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Resume Upload (PDF please)

AUTHORIZATION AND UNDERSTANDING: I understand that the City of Gaylord may thoroughly investigate my work and personal history and verify all data given on this application, on related papers, and in interviews. I authorize the military, all individuals, schools and firms named therein, except my current employer if so noted, to provide any information requested about me, and I release them from all liability for damage in providing this information. I also hereby waive any right under the Bullard-Plawecki Right to Know Act, 1978 PA 397, to receive written notice from the ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­City of Gaylord or any former or current employer, that disciplinary reports, letters of reprimand, or other disciplinary action taken against me while employed, will be or have been disclosed to a third person or entity. I hereby consent to having a physical and/or mental examination(s) and/or test(s) conducted by a physician or other professional of the Employer's choice, and understand that any offer of employment is conditioned upon the results of this examination(s) and/or test(s). I understand that to be employed I must be lawfully authorized to work in the United States, and I must show the employer documents that will prove this. All of the information on this application and made in conjunction with this application is correct and true to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any false or misleading statement made by me in connection with this application or the failure to disclose any material information will be grounds for immediate dismissal. I understand and agree that, if hired, my employment is for no definite period and may, regardless of the date of payment of my wages and salary, be terminated at any time, with or without cause, and without any prior notice at either my option or at the option of the employer, it being mutually understood and agreed that my relationship with the Employer is one of employment at will and no representative of the Employer has any authority to enter into any agreement for employment for any period of time or to make any agreement contrary to the foregoing. I also understand and agree that any and all fringe benefits that I may receive as a result of my employment with the Employer may be modified by the Employer, and do not vest by reason of my employment, continued employment or otherwise. I agree not to commence any action or suit relating to my employment with the Employer more than six (6) months after the date of termination of such employment, and to waive any statute of limitations to the contrary.

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