Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Treatment Certified Operator - Multiple Positions AvailableCity of The DallesFirst review of applications: June 30, 2026Join the Team That Keeps Our Community's Water Clean and Reliable! Compensation: $60,113.40–$84,524.25, based on experience, skills, and certification level Department: Public Works – Wicks Water Treatment Plant Status: Full-time, union‑eligibleWe are hiring multiple Water Treatment Operators! This recruitment may be used to fill current and future vacancies. Make a Meaningful Contribution Every DayThe City of The Dalles is seeking a Water Treatment Operator to help maintain safe, reliable drinking water for our community. You'll work with specialized equipment and support daily treatment operations. We offer paid on‑the‑job training, certification support, and a growth path up to Level IV (4) certification. Applicants with existing certifications are strongly encouraged to apply. What You'll ReceiveCompetitive payComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverageFSA and HRA-VEBA optionsLong-term disability, AD&D, and EAP benefitsCity-funded retirement contributions after one year (13.5%)Paid training and certification support What You'll DoWater Quality & LaboratoryPerform standard lab tests, calculations, and data documentation.Operations & MaintenanceOperate, monitor, and maintain plant equipment and chemical feed systems.Complete inspections, adjustments, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.Facilities & SafetyMaintain facility and grounds, including supply and chemical inventory.Follow all safety requirements, including respirator standards.Operate City vehicles and equipment, including in hazardous weather.Perform other related duties as assigned. Work EnvironmentThis position splits time between office tasks and outdoor work at the Wicks Water Treatment Plant throughout all seasons. The City provides all required personal protective equipment. The plant operates 24/7, and scheduling includes a mix of 8‑ and 12‑hour shifts, which may fall on holidays or weekends. Although the role is not on‑call, overtime may be required or offered depending on staffing needs. What You BringSkills & AbilitiesWork independently and use sound judgment in plant and field operations.Communicate clearly, document accurately, and follow SOPs.Strong troubleshooting skills for equipment, processes, and water quality.Demonstrate strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills related to equipment, processes, and water quality issues.Technical KnowledgeApplied algebra for hydraulic calculations, chemical dosing, flow data, and lab results.Understanding of water chemistry, wet chemistry testing, colorimetric and spectrophotometric methods.Experience with routine operation, calibration, and maintenance of lab and field instruments, including QA/QC.Familiarity with pumps, valves, meters, chemical feed systems, and basic mechanical/hydraulic systems.Proficiency with spreadsheets for data entry, tracking, and reporting.Regulatory & Safety RequirementsKnowledge of state and federal water treatment regulations.Ability to meet OSHA respirator requirements.Ability to safely climb stairs/ladders and lift up to 80 pounds. Minimum Qualifications: High School diploma or equivalent.At least one (1) year of experience in operational decision‑making, water operations, laboratory testing, wastewater services, water system maintenance, or related field.At least one (1) year of experience using Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet‑based software for data entry, analysis, or reportingAt least one (1) year of experience producing clear written and verbal communication in a workplace or organizational setting and following written and verbal instructions accurately.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across departments.Preferred (but not required) Qualifications:Written and/or oral Spanish language proficiencyTwo (2) years of experience working as a Water Treatment Operator or in a closely related water treatment role.Associate degree in math, science, chemistry, or a related field-or equivalent coursework in Water Treatment Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or environmental fieldsOregon Level I Water Treatment certificationOregon Level II, III, or IV Water Treatment Operator certification, or reciprocal equivalentsAdditional training in mechanical operations and maintenance of pumps and other equipment used in water treatment Required Licenses & Certifications Valid Driver's LicenseMust obtain Oregon Class I Water Treatment Operator certification within eighteen (18) months of hire.Must obtain Oregon Class II Water Treatment Operator certification within thirty-seven (37) months of hire. About The Dalles:Join a Welcoming Community - Experience the warmth of a small-town spirit where local events, farmers' markets, and festivals bring people together and create lasting connections.Thrive in a Growing Economy - Be part of a diverse and stable economy fueled by agriculture, technology, healthcare, government, and tourism. Your career can grow here.Embrace the Outdoors - With over 300 days of sunshine, enjoy easy access to the Columbia River Gorge for hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports - plus winter adventures are just an hour away at Mt. Hood.Balance Work and Life - Live surrounded by stunning riverfront parks, scenic trails, and a city that values thoughtful growth and a strong industrial and technology presence.Affordable and Accessible - Benefit from affordable housing, quality schools, and healthcare - all just 80 miles from Portland, combining small-town charm with metropolitan convenience.Be Part of Something Bigger - Join close-knit neighborhoods where community support is real and your contributions matter In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification documentation upon hire. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship. The City of The Dalles is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans and Spanish-speaking candidates are highly encouraged to apply. EEO/AA EMPLOYER
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