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Wastewater Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Poutrix

Water/Wastewater Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$80 - $132/hr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Civil, Structural, or a related field. * Professional Engineer (PE ... Primary focus on the water/wastewater municipal market with experience in permitting and ...

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Arcadis

Water/Wastewater Engineer

Mobile, AL · Hybrid

You will be part of a dynamic team of engineers, leading wastewater treatment process and mechanical design projects and helping our clients develop sustainable and equitable solutions to the ...

Arcadis

Water/Wastewater Engineer

Mobile, AL · Hybrid

You will be part of a dynamic team of engineers, leading wastewater treatment process and mechanical design projects and helping our clients develop sustainable and equitable solutions to the ...

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Wastewater Mechanic information

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How much do wastewater mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater mechanic in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater mechanic?

Wastewater Mechanics are skilled professionals responsible for the maintenance, repair, and operation of equipment used in wastewater treatment plants. Their duties include troubleshooting mechanical issues, performing preventive maintenance, and ensuring that pumps, motors, valves, and other machinery are functioning efficiently. By keeping equipment in top condition, Wastewater Mechanics help ensure that wastewater is treated safely and effectively before being released back into the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wastewater Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, plumbing, and electrical troubleshooting, usually supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with equipment such as pumps, motors, SCADA systems, and preventive maintenance software is vital. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure wastewater treatment plants operate efficiently and safely, preventing environmental hazards and system failures.

What are some common challenges a wastewater mechanic faces on the job?

Wastewater Mechanics often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical systems in harsh environments, working with aging or outdated equipment, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. The role may require responding to emergency breakdowns outside of regular hours and adapting to rapidly changing priorities. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with operators, electricians, and supervisors are essential for overcoming these challenges and maintaining smooth plant operations.

What is the difference between Wastewater Mechanic vs Wastewater Operator?

AspectWastewater MechanicWastewater Operator
CertificationsMay require mechanic or technical certifications, such as ASE or trade licensesTypically requires wastewater treatment plant operator licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentFocuses on repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting mechanical equipment in wastewater facilitiesOperates and monitors treatment processes, controls equipment, and ensures compliance
Employer & Industry UsageFound in wastewater treatment plants, industrial facilities, and municipal servicesPrimarily employed by municipal wastewater treatment plants and environmental agencies

While both roles are essential in wastewater management, a Wastewater Mechanic specializes in maintaining mechanical systems, whereas a Wastewater Operator manages treatment processes and ensures regulatory compliance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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Wastewater Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Mechanic job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,613 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainee (Industrial Mechanic)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$47K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Inspect, diagnose, and repair industrial mechanical equipment including pumps, blowers, compressors, valves, gearboxes, conveyors, sluice gates, and engines.

  • Perform welding, fabrication, and brazing using various welding techniques and tools, and make precision cuts on metals.

  • Evaluate equipment condition and maintenance needs to develop project plans for predictive, preventive, and corrective actions.

Job description


Important Notice: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Do you have hands-on experience with engines, pumps, valves, hydraulics, or industrial equipment? If so, we may have the perfect opportunity for you! Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking skilled mechanics and maintenance professionals to join the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) as Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainees (WMT) through a paid apprenticeship program! The WPCP is a state-of-the-art, highly automated advanced wastewater treatment facility capable of treating more than 40 million gallons of wastewater per day. Selected candidates will participate in a structured four-year job training/work apprenticeship program, which offers a career path from Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainee to the highest-level Wastewater Maintenance Technician at full performance.
The apprenticeship program includes:
  • Extensive County-paid technical courses and training using the TPC training system, such as wastewater systems overview, safety, CMMS, WEF pump computer, backflow preventer, crane truck/backhoe/skid loader/rigging/overhead crane operation, laser alignment, vibration analysis, root cause failure, oil analysis, and other required trainings;
  • A structural and pipe welding certification and CDL License;
  • Defined expectations of accomplishment at each level or subject to separation from training; and
  • A compensation plan based upon the achievement of new skills through comprehensive testing, certification, and demonstrated application of skills.

Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
  • Inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing industrial mechanical equipment including pumps, blowers, compressors, valves, gearboxes, conveyors, sluice gates, and diesel/gasoline engines using diagnostic tools, blueprints, and factory specifications;
  • Performing horizontal and vertical welding, fabrication, and brazing using acetylene, arc, MIG, and TIG welders on ferrous and nonferrous metals; making precision cuts using band saws and plasma cutters;
  • Evaluating equipment condition and maintenance needs by analyzing age, maintenance history, operational data, and life expectancy to develop project plans for predictive, preventive, and corrective action;
  • Assessing project scope for repair, replacement, and installation work - including resource needs (equipment, personnel, budget) and coordinating or monitoring contractor performance and quality of work; and
  • Operating and maintaining hand and power tools, precision instruments, rigging equipment, and shop machinery including grinders, hydraulic presses, pipe threaders, calipers, and micrometers.

The Full Performance Maintenance Technician is responsible for technical, skilled trades and project management work. This includes installing, maintaining, and renovating complex industrial systems and equipment in the WPCP, along with Water and Sewer Lift Stations maintained, and managed in DES.
The ideal candidate will have experience:
  • Independently diagnosing mechanical problems and determining repair solutions with minimal supervision;
  • Working in fast-paced environments where priorities shift quickly - balancing planned maintenance with emergency response; and
  • Collaborating across trades and work groups to complete projects safely and on schedule.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications: Selected Candidates will be placed at the level commensurate with their education and experience levels (Multiple vacancies)
Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee - Apprentice Level 1:
  • High school diploma or GED or the equivalent; and
  • One (1) year of mechanical experience.
  • Licenses/Certifications: None required at hire. Must obtain a valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within the first year of employment.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee Apprentice Level 2:
  • Completion of Apprentice Level 1 requirements; and
  • One (1) year of experience in wastewater maintenance.
  • Licenses: Forklift certification; First Aid and CPR; IMI WMT I License or equivalent; CDL Class B.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee Apprentice Level 3:
  • Completion of Apprentice Level 2 requirements; and
  • One (1) additional year of experience in wastewater maintenance.
  • Licenses: Backflow preventer license; IMI WMT II License; CDL Class B; Plate and pipe welding certification.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician (Full Performance Level):
  • Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in mechanical repair or the maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility;
  • Licenses: WMT III or equivalent; Forklift; First Aid/CPR; Plate and Pipe Welding; CDL Class B.

Substitution: A year of directly related technical school training beyond the high school level or a college degree in Engineering or a directly related field may be substituted for one year of the experience requirement.
Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Hands-on mechanical repair in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, manufacturing, or military maintenance settings;
  • Troubleshooting and repairing pumps, motors, hydraulic systems, gearboxes, or engine components;
  • Working in industrial environments with exposure to heavy machinery, confined spaces, and safety protocols;
  • Welding experience (any discipline - MIG, TIG, arc, acetylene); and/or
  • Reading and interpreting blueprints, technical manuals, or equipment schematics.

Special Requirements
  • Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL)/Driver's License: Applicant must possess and maintain a valid Class B CDL or must obtain within one year of employment for level 1, and applicant must authorize Arlington County to obtain, or provide a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record. Applicant must consent to Arlington County to obtain from previous employer's information required by DOT agency regulations concerning drug and alcohol testing information. Once hired, the employee will be subject to a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug screening at such times during employment as required by federal, state, and local standards and regulations.
  • Work Environment - Work is performed in an industrial environment and involves exposure to hazardous chemicals, strong odors, drafts, noise, dust, grease, and dirt, including extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and crouching. Incumbent is also required to lift light to very heavy objects and equipment, exerting up to 75 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects, and climb ladders and elevations of 100 feet. This position requires working outside for long periods of time with exposure to adverse weather conditions which includes rain, snow, wind, and temperature extremes.
  • Candidates selected for interview will be required to participate in a work simulation exercise. Candidates must also be able to pass a respirator fit test and work in confined spaces.
  • Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions.

Additional Information
Work Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Must be available for holdover and/or call-back in emergency situations.
The Wastewater Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program is a multi-grade pay class within the Arlington County Government. The salary listed at the top of the announcement is reflective of the entry at the trainee level to the top of the full performance level. Entry pay and pay progression is based on meeting training, certification, licensing, and experience requirements.
Permanent status with the County is not obtained until completion of training and certification requirements for the full-performance position. All employees in the program must complete all stated requirements within the specified time frames, or they will be subject to separation from County employment.
This position is eligible for County government employee benefits that include health, dental, vacation and sick leave, commuter transportation subsidies, tuition reimbursement, as well as a generous retirement plan.
For more information on Arlington County's generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
This position is listed as "open continuous." Interested applicants are advised to submit their application as soon as possible. If your application is received later in the recruitment process, it may not be reviewed or considered. The application process will close when the position has been filled or when a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.
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