Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, C, B, and/or A

Application closing date: August 30, 2026, 5:00 p.m.

About the role

As a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee you will undergo comprehensive training to develop the skills and knowledge to operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities. This role involves hands-on training under the supervision of experienced operators to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become a certified wastewater treatment plant operator.

As a Licensed Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining wastewater treatment facilities to ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater before it is discharged back into the environment. This role involves monitoring equipment, conducting tests, making adjustments, and performing routine maintenance tasks to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Functions in a trainee capacity by assisting licensed operators in all duties relating to the operation and maintenance of wastewater and treatment facilities.
• Performs manual and mechanical tasks relating to the daily operation of a wastewater treatment facility.
• Physically adjusts valves and gates to adjust flow of sewage.
• Maintains written operational records; records meter and gauge readings; performs basic arithmetic calculations and interprets results.
• Cleans and performs routine maintenance and repair of tank wires, piping, waste treatment machinery, and equipment.
• Physically handles various chemicals and materials.
• Safely operates trucks and tractors in the disposal of solid waste on a weekly basis.
• Performs general janitorial and groundskeeping functions; sweeps and mops floors and decks; mows, trims shrubbery, and edges driveways and sidewalks.

This is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of essential job functions; the performance of other essential functions may be required.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• Possession of a valid Florida Class “C”, “B”, or “A” license for wastewater plant operators preferred, or must obtain this certification within two years of employment. Trainee must obtain "C" license within a time period specified by the division.
• Possession of a valid Florida driver's license with a good driving record as determined by the City of Winter Haven.
• Absence of non-prescribed controlled substances in the applicant’s system as verified by a laboratory approved by the City of Winter Haven.
• Must be able to work various, rotating shifts of eight or more hours per day or as scheduled.

An equivalent combination of training and experience that is determined to be directly related to the foregoing specific requirements may be substituted.

Skills

• Knowledge of the practices, methods, materials, and tools utilized in the repair and maintenance of waste treatment machinery and equipment.
• Sufficient knowledge of basic electricity to effect minor repairs and adjustments.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English; perform basic arithmetic calculations.
• Ability to work under malodorous conditions; descend and ascend ladders and stairs to obtain access to effect necessary repairs; withstand occupancy in confined spaces; work with and around chemicals; and to work without direct supervision.
• Non-claustrophobic.
• Physical strength and agility sufficient to do strenuous laboring tasks under varying weather conditions.

Benefits

• Annual Step for Performance Pay Plan
• 12 Paid Holidays Per Year
• 12 Vacation Days Minimum, Earned Per Year
• 12 Sick Days Earned Per Year
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Benefits
• 401(a) Retirement Plan and Social Security Coverage
• Education/Tuition Assistance Program; and Training and Development Opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program – to include Mental Health Assistance/Services

Pay

• Trainee: $16.80 per hour
• B License: $25.21 per hour
• C License: $23.01 per hour
• A License: $28.94 per hour

Schedule

Various, rotating shifts of eight or more hours per day or as scheduled.

Physical / Environmental Factors

Must have the physical ability, strength, and flexibility to perform the job functions in the work environment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.