Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Chicago, IL

The City of Crystal Lake is seeking a knowledgeable, motivated, and safety-conscious Public Works Wastewater Facility Operator to join our Public Works Department. This position plays a vital role in protecting public health and the environment by operating, maintaining, and improving the City's wastewater treatment plants, lift stations, and related facilities. If you enjoy hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and working both independently and as part of a team, we encourage you to apply.

Position Summary This is technical work involving the operation, maintenance, monitoring, and repair of the City's wastewater treatment plants, pumping facilities, and related infrastructure. Responsibilities include plant operations, equipment troubleshooting and repair, laboratory sampling and analysis, regulatory compliance, preventive maintenance, recordkeeping, and responding to emergency situations. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Wastewater Supervisor or Superintendent, who reviews work through observation, reports, and operational results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Serve as Lead Worker by overseeing the operation of wastewater facilities and coordinating the work of two or more employees while performing journey-level duties. Operate, monitor, inspect, and maintain wastewater treatment plants, lift stations, and related facilities to ensure efficient and compliant operations. Perform routine facility inspections and process control testing, including laboratory analysis of wastewater samples for operational control and regulatory reporting.

Monitor and adjust treatment processes, chemical feed systems, and plant operations to maintain compliance with state and federal wastewater quality standards. Operate and monitor SCADA systems and enter operational data into computer applications for analysis, reporting, and recordkeeping. Troubleshoot, inspect, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, blowers, electrical, mechanical, and treatment equipment.

Safely handle and change treatment chemicals while following all applicable safety procedures. Maintain inventory of treatment chemicals, equipment, and repair parts; order supplies and assist with budget recommendations. Plan and coordinate assigned maintenance, operational, capital improvement, and capital maintenance projects under the direction of the Supervisor or Superintendent.

Maintain accurate operational records, work orders, project documentation, and prepare required daily, weekly, monthly, and regulatory reports. Assist in preparing work assignments and coordinating daily activities for division personnel. Operate a variety of equipment used in wastewater system maintenance, repair, and construction.

Perform semi-skilled building maintenance including painting, plumbing, masonry, and minor electrical work. Clean, maintain, and perform preventive maintenance on buildings, facilities, vehicles, tools, and equipment. Ensure equipment is operated safely and in accordance with established procedures.

Perform heavy physical work, including loading and unloading materials and attaching equipment accessories. Respond to customer concerns, investigate operational issues, communicate findings, and assist with public education, facility tours, and community outreach. Respond to emergencies caused by severe weather, power outages, equipment failures, or other system disruptions.

Assist other Public Works divisions as needed. Participate in snow and ice removal operations during the winter season. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Coursework in wastewater treatment, water treatment, environmental sciences, or a related field is preferred. Experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, maintenance, or related mechanical trades; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Familiarity with personal computers, Microsoft Office applications, spreadsheets, email, GIS mapping, and SCADA systems is highly desirable. Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple tasks, solve problems effectively, and maintain accurate records. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.

Required Certifications and Licenses Candidates must possess: Illinois EPA Class 2 Wastewater Operator Certification or Class 2 Operator-in-Training Certification. Ability to wear a respirator. Candidates must also possess, or obtain within six (6) months of hire: Illinois Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A or B with Air Brake endorsement.

Candidates may obtain the Tanker endorsement within twelve (12) months of hire. The City will provide training as needed. Work Schedule Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m

to 3:00 p.m. This position requires: Participation in an on-call rotation for after-hours emergencies. Weekend, evening, and holiday work as needed

Emergency response during severe weather, utility outages, and other Public Works emergencies. Participation in snow and ice control operations. Compensation and Benefits Starting Hourly Rate: $37.74 to $48.30 per hour, depending on qualifications (currently subject to negotiations for a successor Collective Bargaining Agreement)

The City of Crystal Lake offers a comprehensive benefits package including: Health, dental, and life insurance effective on the first day of employment Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension participation Ten (10) paid holidays Monthly accrued vacation and sick leave Employer-provided CDL training, if needed Employment Requirements Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of: Background investigation Pre-employment physical examination Drug screening This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the City of Crystal Lake and Local 150 of the International Union of Operating Engineers. How to Apply Qualified candidates should complete a City employment application at www.crystallake.org. The City of Crystal Lake is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.