About the Department

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Additional non-standard hours as needed

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision, the Wastewater Treatment Operator I performs routine operational, monitoring, maintenance, and support duties for the City’s wastewater systems. Responsibilities vary by assignment and may include field operations related to the wastewater collection system/field operations or plant operations related to wastewater treatment and laboratory testing. This position supports system reliability, regulatory compliance, environmental protection, and public health through assigned duties in either field or plant environments.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Performs routine operational and maintenance duties in support of wastewater treatment and collection system operations.

2. Monitors wastewater processes, equipment, and system components to ensure proper operation and regulatory compliance.

3. Collects, records, and maintains accurate operational, maintenance, and testing data.

4. Operates tools, equipment, and machinery in accordance with established procedures and safety protocols.

5. Identifies and reports equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, or system issues to supervisors.

6. Maintains cleanliness and organization of work areas, equipment, and tools.

7. Follows all safety requirements, environmental regulations, and departmental procedures.

8. Uses required personal protective equipment and observes confined space, traffic control, and chemical safety practices as applicable.

9. Performs emergency response duties, including after-hours response, as required.

10. Performs other duties as assigned.

IF ASSIGNED TO FIELD OPERATIONS

1. Inspects sewer lines, manholes, and lift stations to identify blockages, leaks, or malfunctions.

2. Operates cameras, rods, hydro-cleaners, and other specialized equipment to diagnose collection system issues.

3. Cuts, replaces, and seals damaged pipe sections; installs new sewer pipes and service taps.

4. Digs trenches, backfills excavations, and prepares sites for repairs using appropriate equipment.

5. Responds to emergency calls related to blockages, overflows, leaks, or system failures.

6. Assists with line locating, manhole cleaning, and lift station maintenance activities.

7. Maintains accurate records of maintenance, inspections, and repairs performed.

8. Works outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain.

9. Employees may be temporarily or periodically assigned to perform duties in other operational areas, including plant operations, based on operational needs, staffing requirements, or emergency conditions.

IF ASSIGNED TO PLANT OPERATIONS

1. Collects wastewater samples from multiple stages of the treatment process.

2. Analyzes samples using laboratory instruments and techniques to assess water quality.

3. Accurately records, logs, and reports testing results in compliance with regulatory and departmental standards.

4. Operates, calibrates, cleans, and maintains laboratory and testing equipment.

5. Assists with quality assurance and quality control procedures to ensure accurate and reliable testing.

6. Maintains a clean, safe, and organized laboratory and plant environment.

7. Handles chemicals and laboratory equipment in accordance with established safety protocols.

8. Supports daily wastewater treatment plant operations as needed.

9. Employees may be temporarily or periodically assigned to perform duties in other operational areas, including field operations, based on operational needs, staffing requirements, or emergency conditions.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

1. Knowledge of wastewater treatment and collection system principles and practices.

2. Ability to operate and maintain tools, equipment, and machinery used in wastewater operations.

3. Ability to read and understand technical instructions, procedures, and safety requirements.

4. Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.

5. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and the public.

6. Ability to follow safe work practices in wastewater, laboratory, and field environments, as assigned.

All positions at the City of Orange Beach have the job responsibilities below:

1. Handles sensitive information in a confidential manner.  

2. Maintains a highly professional attitude and demeanor at all times. 

3. Provides responsible, appropriate, and satisfactory leadership within the City.  

4. Communicates positively and professionally in all aspects of the position.  

5. Attends all department meetings, City meetings, and professional development activities.  

6. Becomes thoroughly familiar with all pertinent state and national policies and comply with said policies. 

7. Complies with City wide and departmental policies, as well as state and federal laws. 

8. Ensures the positive promotion of the City. 

9. Is prompt and punctual in reporting for work, meetings, etc.  

10. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions, duties and responsibilities of the job may be considered.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

2. Valid driver’s license.

3. Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or non-standard hours as needed.

4. Possession of, or ability to obtain within two (2) years of hire, applicable wastewater certification(s) as required by assignment:

• Field Operations: ADEM CS-1 Operations Certificate (required within two years).

• Plant Operations: Grade IV Wastewater Certification (required within three years).

1. Possession of, or ability to obtain within two (2) years of hire, applicable Commercial Driver’s License as required by assignment:

• Field Operations: CDL B (required within two years).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License

2. Prior experience in wastewater treatment, collection systems, or laboratory operations, based on assignment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Field Operations work is primarily performed outdoors and involves exposure to varying and sometimes extreme weather conditions including heat, cold, humidity, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Employees regularly work on uneven, muddy, or rocky terrain and in proximity to traffic, construction zones, and heavy equipment. Physical demands include frequent walking over long distances, climbing into and out of manholes or trenches, digging, lifting and handling pipes or equipment, and operating tools and machinery. Work may involve confined spaces, exposure to hazardous materials, pathogens, insects, animals, or environmental contaminants, and requires strict adherence to safety procedures and traffic control measures.