Wastewater Plant Operator

Salary: $26.48 - $37.07 Hourly
Location : Wastewater, Appleton, WI
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026-138
Department: Utilities
Division: Wastewater
Opening Date: 09/21/2026
Closing Date: 10/4/2026 11:59 PM Central


Job Description
The Wastewater Plant Operator is responsible for the operation of and maintenance support for equipment utilized in wastewater treatment, sludge processing, and disposal. The operator ensures compliance with environmental regulations by monitoring and adjusting plant processes to optimize performance and maintain water quality standards.This position is comprised of 10 full-time staff within a unified operations group. Each team member works a 10-week rotation with the majority shifts being the 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 pm dayshift along with multiple three-to-four-day long weekends during the shift rotations. The Wastewater Plant Operator is directly managed by the Operations Supervisor and works closely with other operators, laboratory technicians, an instrumentation and controls systems technician, maintenance specialists, and master electrician.

Examples of Duties

• Operate and monitor pumps, motors, valves, and other process equipment in wastewater treatment facilities.
• Adjust chemical feed rates and treatment processes as necessary to maintain optimal plant performance.
• Conduct routine inspections of the treatment plant, equipment, and surrounding areas.
• Read, interpret, and record data from meters, gauges, SCADA systems, and other monitoring devices.
• Collect and test water and wastewater samples for compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Perform laboratory tests such as pH, BOD, TSS, fecal coliform, and others as required.
• Maintain accurate logs of tests and analyze results to ensure proper treatment levels.
• Provide preventative and corrective maintenance support on treatment plant equipment, including pumps, blowers, belt filter presses, tanks, and valves.
• Provide observations that support troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical issues.
• Assist Maintenance Division staff with major repairs and maintenance projects when necessary.
• Ensure that wastewater treatment processes meet regulatory requirements under the facility's Wisconsin Pollution Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit and other local, state, and federal laws.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, logs, and reports of plant operations, equipment status, and regulatory compliance.
• Submit timely data required for regulatory reporting functions.
• Follow established safety protocols and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Participate in safety training, emergency response drills, and other related activities.
• Maintain certifications in CPR and First Aid and attend periodic training in confined space entry procedures, forklift and pay loader operation, respiratory protection, lockout/tag out, and fire extinguisher operation.
• Safeguard the environment by ensuring compliance with all discharge permits and environmental regulations.
• Participate in training and development programs to stay current with advancements in wastewater treatment technologies.
• Assist with emergency repairs and plant shutdowns.

Typical Qualifications

• Associate degree or vocational training in wastewater technology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• Possession or the ability to obtain WDNR Advanced Wastewater Operator certification (certification subgrades A1, B, C, D, L, P and SS) preferred within 48 months of employment and maintain the certificate when employed.
• Prior experience in wastewater treatment, plant operations, or maintenance is preferred but not required.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are advantageous.
• Valid driver's license.

• Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, equipment, and related regulations.
• Ability to use various tools, equipment, and technology related to plant operations (e.g., SCADA systems).
• Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work in outdoor environments and handle physically demanding tasks.

Supplemental Information
COMPETENCIES
Customer Focus
Adaptability/Flexibility
Technical Skills
Communication
Positive Attitude

To learn more about these competencies click
Employees in this class are afforded full benefits including, but not limited to:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)
• Vacation/Paid Time-Off
• Paid Holidays

To view the current Benefits Booklet online, click
For a more detailed overview of our benefit package,