Wastewater Operator Trainee

***Position open until April 22, 2026***

The City of Haines City is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applicants for all positions equally without regard to their race, sex, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. The City of Haines City is a Drug-Free Workplace. Applicants who complete the initial screening process will be required to complete a pre-employment drug screen and physical. Police Department applicants will also be required to take a Polygraph Examination. All information provided by an applicant will be verified for truthfulness and accuracy if a conditional offer of employment is made. Applications and other submitted documents are considered public records.

Salary range is provided to show the min to max compensation for a position. It is not the basis for or guarantee of a starting salary.

Position Function:

Under the direction of the Wastewater Superintendent, performs duties necessary to support the Wastewater Division and ensure the proper operation of wastewater treatment systems and equipment. The position is classified as an Operator in Training and is responsible for accomplishing licensure requirements commensurate with the position within 12 - 18 months of hire.

Essential Duties:

1. Performs duties necessary to support the Wastewater Division to ensure the proper operation of the wastewater treatment systems and equipment. Responsibilities include but are not limited to, assisting with the conducting of lab tests, sample analysis, running tests on various equipment, cleaning bottles for the auto sampler, and determining test results.

2. Assists with monitoring and adjusting system flows, treatment process conditions, and storage levels by monitoring the status of production, storage, and delivery systems. Duties include maintaining system reports and records by preparing and logging daily reports into the computer system.

3. Assists with maintaining and cleaning plant and plant equipment, and cleaning lab counters and floors. Duties include, but are not limited to, grounds maintenance, and basic pump and motor maintenance. May assist and/or be cross-trained in pump and motor repair, maintenance, and installation.

4. Attends training classes, takes tests, and participates in on-the-job-training activities that are required by the State of Florida, as a prerequisite for obtaining a Class C Wastewater Plant Operator License. The position is classified as an Operator in Training and is responsible for accomplishing licensure requirements commensurate with the position within 12 - 18 months of hire.

5. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Environment:

Duties are performed primarily within an outdoor and indoor environment or setting. Possible exposure to electrical and chemical hazards; vibration; loud noise; inclement weather; dust, allergens, and mold.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Required knowledge and experience are normally obtained through the completion of a curriculum resulting in either a High School Diploma or GED is required. Must be able to obtain a class C Wastewater License within 12 - 18 months of hire date.

• Florida Class C Wastewater License is preferred.

• Must exhibit attention to detail, accuracy, and safety.

• Must be able to communicate and present oneself professionally.

• Ability to perform or learn basic mathematical equations in the performance of analysis and calculation of dosage.

• Ability to read, interpret, and follow technical information, directives, manuals, memos, reports, and other work-related materials.

• Ability to write analysis sheets, reports, inventories, logbooks, purchase orders, and work requests.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working and professional relationships with City employees' officials, and the general public.

• Ability to take and follow oral instructions.

• Ability to work under high demands, short time constraints, and pressure in a fast-paced work environment.

• Ability to work shift work and respond to emergency call-outs.

Other Requirements:

• Must possess a Valid Florida Class E driver's license.

• Must pass applicable pre-employment testing and background and credit checks.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.