City of Wausau is Now Hiring: Wastewater Plant Operations Technician
Opening Date: January 8, 2026
Closing Date: January 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
To Apply
Complete and Submit Application at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wausauwi/
Applications must be complete and include an attached resume in order to be considered for this position.
Salary Information
Starting hourly salary range for this position is $28.25 or higher DOQ. This position is classified as Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Purpose of the Position
The Wastewater Plant Operations Technician assists with the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment facility to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant treatment of wastewater. This position supports the protection of public health and the environment by monitoring plant treatment processes, performing preventative and corrective maintenance, and responding to and resolving operational issues. The position requires participation in a weekly rotating on-call schedule and responding to emergency call-out situations while on call.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate and Maintain Treatment Systems:
Independently monitor and operate wastewater treatment plant systems, lift stations, pumps, motors, chemical feed systems, generators, and associated process control/SCADA equipment to ensure compliance with the WPDES Permit. - Troubleshoot and Resolve System Failures:
Independently diagnose and correct electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic breakdowns, initiating timely corrective actions and notifying the Superintendent or immediate Supervisor. - Preventive and Corrective Maintenance:
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks, including lubrication, alignment, balancing, repairs, equipment replacement, and routine inspections of plant and lift station equipment to ensure efficient and reliable operation. - Regulatory Laboratory Testing & Process Monitoring:
During Laboratory Technicians absence; Conduct, record, and evaluate required wastewater process control and compliance lab testing (e.g., pH, BOD, Ammonia-Nitrogen, TSS and phosphorus) as required by the WPDES Permit. - Recordkeeping:
Maintain accurate operational and maintenance records. - Biogas & Specialized System Monitoring:
Monitor and operate biogas collection and conditioning systems under supervisory direction to prevent corrosion, malfunction, or safety hazards and support efficient energy recovery systems. - Biosolids Handling & Land Application Compliance:
Operate biosolids systems and land application equipment. - On-Call & Emergency Response Duties:
Participate in a weekly rotating on-call schedule for evenings, weekends, and holidays; respond promptly to emergency calls and unscheduled plant or collection system emergencies to maintain public health and environmental compliance. - Work Planning & Inspection Follow-Up:
Independently organize work assignments, assist with scheduling preventive maintenance activities, and conduct follow-up inspections to verify task completion and equipment reliability. - Facility Housekeeping & Safety Practices:
Perform general housekeeping and facility upkeep to support safety and operational readiness, and adhere to safety policies, confined space procedures, and relevant DNR and OSHA standards as part of ongoing certification and professional practice.
Education and Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent, and
- At least one year of progressively responsible experience:
- Repairing and maintaining mechanical or automotive equipment, and/or
- Repairing and maintaining industrial electrical equipment, including motor control centers/VFDs, automated process control systems, remote telemetry monitoring, and process control software, and
- Possession of, or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire, a Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s License (Class B with N Endorsement).
Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the necessary knowledge and skills will also be considered.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate degree in wastewater, environmental sciences, or a related field.
- One year experience as a wastewater treatment plant operator.
- Experience operating farm equipment. Tractor, End-Loader, Skid steer, Semi-Truck.
- College coursework or degree in industrial mechanical, electrical, or related fields.
- Wisconsin DNR Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Advanced Certification in one or more of the following subclasses: Biological Solids/Sludge Handling, Processing & Reuse; Biological Treatment: Suspended Growth Processes; Disinfection; Laboratory; Nutrient Removal; Solids Separation; Collection Systems.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of the principles, processes, and practices used in wastewater treatment plant operations.
- Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and related plant equipment.
- Knowledge of preventive maintenance methods and proper repair techniques for wastewater and sewer system equipment and structures.
- Knowledge of the safe operation of large and small equipment typically used in municipal public works and wastewater facilities.
- Ability to work safely in confined spaces in accordance with OSHA standards and City policies.
- Ability to remain calm and work safely and effectively in high-stress situations, including high flows, inclement weather, and emergency response conditions.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and the public.
- Ability to work independently under general supervision and maintain accurate maintenance and operational records.
Physical and Working Environment
This position requires regular physical activity, including standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing ladders or stairs, and working in confined spaces. Employees must be able to lift and carry up to 60 pounds and push or pull up to 100 pounds.
The role requires frequent use of hands and arms for grasping, reaching, and handling tools and equipment, as well as the ability to see, hear, and communicate effectively to follow instructions, recognize alarms, and work safely. Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus, with corrective lenses if needed.
Work is performed indoors and outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, noise, chemicals, air contaminants, and other industrial hazards. The use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required. Employees may be exposed to mechanical, electrical, and height-related hazards and must be able to work safely in environments that may pose potential risks to health or safety.
The City of Wausau is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.