WPC Process Operator

The City of Cedar Rapids seeks a Water Pollution Control Process Operator to operate and maintain water pollution control equipment, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Responsibilities include monitoring processes, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining records. The position requires technical skills and a commitment to environmental sustainability. The role is essential for the community's growth and requires regular attendance at the Cedar Rapids facility.
The City of Cedar Rapids is looking for a dedicated and skilled Water Pollution Control Process Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment and processes related to water pollution control to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards. Do you have a passion for environmental sustainability? Are you a self-starter with a need for continuous education and knowledge growth? If so, we encourage you to apply today!

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About the Position

Provides technical services to sustain proper operation of the WPC plant. The work involves monitoring plant processes, interpreting variances, making corrections, and maintaining operational records.

Works under general supervision in operation of highly prescribed processes, but uses some discretion in daily process adjustments and maintenance tasks.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.Job Duties & Responsibilities
• Operates and monitors pumping stations, pure oxygen activated sludge processes, oxygen generation, disinfection facility, processes of primary, secondary, and tertiary wastewater treatment facilities, standby electrical generators, odor control processes, grit and scum removal units, sludge thickening, conditioning, and disposal, and all support systems;
• Reads and records data from recorders, gauges, computer console, and various instrumentation. Records operational information;
• Interprets information obtained, troubleshoots problems, and makes necessary adjustments;
• Initiates "Maintenance Action Requests" for equipment repair;
• Performs simple laboratory tests for cooling tower water quality, boiler water quality, wastewater parameters, and other tests as may be required;
• Takes samples for laboratory analysis;
• Maintains work areas in an orderly and clean fashion;
• Wears and properly uses safety equipment including personal protective, fall protection equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus, and gas detection equipment;
• Participates in confined space entries and emergency response;
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures and safety practices;
• Attends work regularly at the designated place and time;
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives;
• Performs related work as required.

Acceptable Experience and Training
• High school course work in reading and math, preferably supplemented by vocational training in wastewater treatment plant operation. Minimum of two years experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant, preferably with the processes used at the Cedar Rapids Water Pollution Control Facilities (thermal conditioning, dewatering, and multiple hearth incineration); or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Required Special Qualifications
• Grade I Iowa Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License required within one year of employment.
Work Schedule
• 11:00pm - 7:00am; Repeating 28 day schedule, working most weekends.

Hourly Rate

The WPC Process Operator is covered under the AFSCME Bargaining Union, and all new hires begin employment at $28.39 per hour, regardless of years of experience. Employees in this classification receive a step increase on their anniversary. The steps effective 7/1/2024 include:
New Hire
1 year
2 years
3 years

$28.39
$31.43
$33.34
$35.27