Principal Plant Operator - Maintenance (re-ad 27-00075)

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED and three years of experience in wastewater treatment plant operations or maintenance field. A Commonwealth of Virginia Class I Wastewater Operator's License is required for Principal Plant Operators; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Applicants with a Class II, Class III or non-licensed status will receive consideration at lower plant operator classifications and salary grades/ranges. Current valid driver’s license and good driving record required; based on the Virginia DMV point system, records must not reflect a total of six or more demerit points within the twenty‑four months preceding the anticipated hire date, or one major violation of six demerit points within the preceding thirty‑six months. Out‑of‑state driving records must be obtained by applicant and presented at time of interview. Records must reflect at least three years of history and be dated within thirty days of interview date. Pre‑employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required. This position is considered Safety Sensitive and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing. Secondary/outside employment may be prohibited per county policy.

Responsibilities

• Perform all maintenance aspects required to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations governing wastewater treatment.
• Preventative and corrective maintenance of equipment associated with physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes.
• Maintain pumps, valves, compressors, and various other equipment associated with wastewater treatment.
• Clean process tanks, grit chambers, clarifiers, and digesters.
• Perform general plumbing repairs and general building maintenance.
• Housekeeping.
• Perform relief plant operation shifts as needed.
• Work outdoors.
• Perform other work as required.

Pay

The hiring range for this position, depending upon qualifications, is as follows:

• $59,053 – $100,390 for applicants with a Commonwealth of Virginia Class I Wastewater Operator's License.
• $53,309 – $90,625 for applicants with a Commonwealth of Virginia Class II Wastewater Operator's License.
• $48,123 – $81,809 for applicants with a Commonwealth of Virginia Class III Wastewater Operator's License.
• $43,442 – $73,852 for applicants without a license.

Through the career development plan, unlicensed operators and operators with licenses lower than Class I will receive salary increases after passing higher license exams and establishing minimum tenure requirements.

Schedule

Shift: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (static shift, does not rotate).

Benefits

Position is part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) offering career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications, and experience.

Position is open until filled; first review to begin September 21, 2026.