Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator or Trainee

About the role

Build your skills. Serve your community. Advance your career with Fredericksburg’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. Whether you're starting fresh as a Trainee or are a licensed Wastewater Operator, this is your chance to embark on a rewarding career in a $260 billion‑a‑year industry.

Responsibilities

• Machinery Operation and Maintenance – Operate and maintain wastewater machinery and pumps effectively.
• Sample Processing and Chemical Management – Process and collect wastewater samples for laboratory testing, and adjust feed rates while adding chemicals as needed to ensure optimal treatment.
• Data and Reporting – Assist with data entry, prepare monthly reports, and manage SCADA process controls for efficient operations.
• Training and Compliance – Participate in city‑sponsored training to obtain a Class 4 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license within 12 months and work toward obtaining a Class 3 license within 18 months.

Requirements

• Educational background equivalent to a high school diploma.
• Ability to obtain a Class 4 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license within 12 months of employment (city‑sponsored training).
• Ability to obtain a Class 3 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license within 18 months of employment.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license.
• Ability to pass a background and driving record check.

Qualifications

Progression through the career ladder is based on demonstrated skills, successful performance, required training and certifications, operational needs, and available funding.

Skills

• Machinery operation and maintenance
• Sample processing and chemical management
• Data entry and reporting
• SCADA process control management
• License acquisition and compliance training

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage
• Paid leave
• Paid training
• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System

Pay

• Wastewater Treatment Plant Trainee: $40,876 – $44,963 (hiring range)
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator IV: $49,684 – $54,652 (hiring range)
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III‑I: $52,168 – $63,267 (hiring range)

Schedule

24/7 operation with 12‑hour shifts; rotating schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays. Regular 40‑hour workweek with potential for scheduled overtime. Work involves outdoor tasks in various weather conditions.