Water Reclamation Operator II - Public Works

The City of Bend is accepting applications for one regular, full-time Water Reclamation Operator II in the Water Reclamation division of the Water Services Department. This is an hourly, non-exempt (overtime eligible) position represented by the City of Bend Employee Association (COBEA). The City may use this recruitment to establish an eligibility list for future hiring purposes.

About the role

The Water Reclamation Operator II helps keep Bend's wastewater treatment system running safely, efficiently, and reliably every day. This role is responsible for monitoring treatment processes, operating plant equipment, collecting and reviewing laboratory data, performing maintenance activities, and responding to operational needs that support essential public services. The work is hands-on, collaborative, and critical to protecting public health and the environment.

A typical day may include monitoring gauges and control systems, adjusting treatment processes based on plant conditions and laboratory results, troubleshooting equipment issues, completing maintenance tasks, documenting operational data, and coordinating with fellow operators to ensure treatment systems are functioning at their best. Operators work both indoors and outdoors and play an important role in maintaining regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

This is a fully experienced operator position ideal for someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with complex equipment, and contributing to a high-performing team. In addition to operating plant systems, the Operator II helps train and guide less experienced staff and may serve as a crew lead when needed. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community while continuing to grow your expertise in a complex utility environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor wastewater treatment equipment, pumps, valves, meters, gauges, and control systems.
• Evaluate plant performance and make process adjustments based on operating conditions, laboratory results, and established procedures.
• Perform routine wastewater laboratory testing and accurately document results.
• Conduct plant cleaning, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs to equipment, buildings, and grounds.
• Operate City vehicles and heavy equipment, including loaders and backhoes.
• Maintain operational logs, records, and data used for regulatory and operational reporting.
• Respond to after-hours callouts, on-call assignments, and emergency situations as required.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and communicate equipment or process issues in a timely manner.
• Support and train less experienced operators and assist with crew leadership responsibilities when assigned.

Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who is dependable, safety-minded, and comfortable working in an active wastewater treatment environment. The successful candidate takes ownership of their work, communicates effectively with coworkers and supervisors, pays close attention to operational details, and remains calm and effective when plant conditions change. They understand the importance of reliable wastewater treatment services and take pride in supporting the team and the community.

The ideal candidate is also comfortable working independently during on-call assignments, responding to operational issues after hours when needed, and supporting weekend operations as part of a team that provides essential services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Highly qualified candidates will have working knowledge of wastewater treatment operations, activated sludge processes, laboratory procedures, safe work practices, heavy equipment operation, and equipment maintenance. They will bring strong troubleshooting skills, the ability to recognize and respond to changing process conditions, experience maintaining accurate records, and proficiency using computers and operational software systems.

Requirements

• One year of specialized or technical training beyond high school in water quality and wastewater treatment and,
• At least three years of experience as an Operator I; or,
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

Qualifications

• Oregon Level II Wastewater Operator Certificate;
• Valid Oregon commercial driver's license within six months of hire.

Desired Attributes

• Demonstrated experience with wastewater process control, including troubleshooting settling trends and making process adjustments.
• Experience independently responding to operational issues, equipment failures, alarms, on-call events, or emergency situations.
• Experience training, mentoring, or providing work guidance to less experienced operators.
• Experience working in an activated sludge treatment facility.
• Additional wastewater treatment certifications beyond minimum requirements.

Benefits

The City of Bend offers an excellent competitive benefits package for employees and eligible dependents, including health and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and a robust paid leave program.

Pay

Starting compensation is determined based on a pay equity analysis considering the candidate's education, applicable work experience, and internal equity.

Applications must be received by August 26, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) Pacific Time to be considered for review. Applicants must complete an online application and attach a resume and cover letter.