Wastewater Plant Operator III

Job Title This listing closes on 4/3/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada).Employer: City of Grand RapidsSalary: $62,931.00 - $75,407.00 AnnuallyLocation: Water Resource Recovery Facility 1300 Market Ave SW Grand Rapids, MIJob Type: PermanentJob Number: 495-0326Department: Environmental ServicesOpening Date: 03/24/2026Closing Date: 4/3/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)Nature Of Work This is skilled lead work over operations staff engaged in operations of all areas of the Water Resource Recovery Facility, including both sanitary and stormwater collection systems. The purpose of this job is to ensure optimal operation of the treatment plant, collection system, stormwater system, and all associated equipment and related stations. Responds to emergencies related to plant and collection system operation. Observes plant systems and provides work orders for equipment maintenance or problems. Observes monitoring requirements and adjusts plant operations accordingly. Manages equipment in or out of service depending on service needs. Trains and mentors less experienced workers. Work is to be performed under the general supervision of a Wastewater Operations & Maintenance Supervisor. Essential duties and responsibilities include:Observes operating conditions of plant equipment and systems; takes water samples and checks tests results; ensures compliance with NPDES permitMaintains lift station equipment such as air compressors, pumps, alarms, heaters, dehumidifiers, and related equipment; ensures equipment is in proper working order; calibrates as necessaryRecords and interprets data from meters, gauges, control panels, and computer; processes control changes logged in daily log bookProcesses work orders and maintenance repair orders; performs minor maintenance and preventive maintenance; assists in more major maintenance and repair activities; conducts exercising operations of emergency equipment; calibrates equipment; replaces work parts; conducts exercising operations of emergency equipmentOperates, tests and inspects all water stations, collection system lift stations and associated equipmentHandles chlorine in a safe, effective manner; assures proper working order of chlorine-related equipmentSets up sprinkler system; sets up and maintains deodorizersServices and maintains UV disinfection; cleans and calibrates dissolved oxygen and solids probesRotates plant equipment; maintains work area and equipment in a clean and orderly conditionMonitors influent water and adjust plant process and equipment accordingly.Acts as lead worker and assigns work and tasks, monitors status, and performs evaluation of completed work.Responds to emergency or unusual situations at the plant, lift stations, and other facilities, as neededProvides guidance and training to less experienced operatorsPerforms related work as requiredMinimum Training And Experience Required Education and Experience:High School diploma or GED--AND-- Three (3) years of progressive work experience involving operating and maintaining wastewater and collection systems.--OR-- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilitiesRequired Licenses or Certifications:State of Michigan EGLE Wastewater Treatment Operator Class C licenseMichigan driver's licenseOther Information We offer:Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 16% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings AccountVoluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan optionsTwelve Paid HolidaysPaid Vacation and Sick TimePaid Parking (if applicable)Employee Home Ownership IncentiveTuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunitiesPaid Parental LeaveEmployee Assistance Program with free mental health counselingComprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentiveEmployee Discounts and PerksShould an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application. The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules.