Apprentice Wastewater Operator/ Maintainer

This is an entry-level training position performing routine wastewater treatment plant operation and maintenance work. An employee in this class is considered in training, for the class of Public Services Operator/Maintainer I. The work is performed in accordance with procedures outlined by the Wastewater Operations and Maintenance Supervisory Staff. Through successful completion of the probationary period, on-the-job training, and self-study, a Public Services Operator/Maintainer Apprentice is expected to acquire sufficient knowledge and skills in primary, secondary, tertiary treatments, solids dewatering and disposal, and maintenance to be able to pass the MDEQ Wastewater Class D License, the MWEA Maintenance Grade I exam, and the in-house Operator/Maintainer I Test. Employees must, as a condition of continued employment, pass, as outlined in the AFSCME Labor Agreement, the first test offered by the State after they are determined eligible to take the MDEQ Wastewater Class D License exam.

• Assists Public Services Operator/Maintainers in routine operational, preventive maintenance, and demand maintenance duties:
• Cleans and maintains wastewater plant equipment to facilitate flow and treatment of wastewater.
• Makes inspections of Treatment Plant computerized components and related mechanical and electrical equipment as assigned by the shift supervisor or designee.
• Identifies operational or maintenance problems.
• Assists in making routine repairs to pumps, mixers, motors, and equipment.
• Performs routine janitorial and grounds maintenance duties; keeps records as assigned.

Expected to perform the following for it is a critical part of the position: Standing, sitting, walking, lifting (up to 50lbs), pushing or pulling, climbing, bending, squatting, reaching, grasping, reading, writing, seeing (clear vision near and far), using the telephone, working alone or as a team, overtime, and outside work.

Environmental: Working around hazardous machinery, and atmospheres, confined spaces, wet surroundings, working in daylight and at night, high and low temperatures, dust or fumes, and working inside and outside.

• Knowledge and skill in mechanical repair and diagnosis, and in keeping records and communicating in written form.
• Applicants must possess a minimum of a high school diploma or a GED; completion of standard high school courses in chemistry, math, biology, and related sciences; related college course work or degree preferred and/or associate degree in mechanical technology.
• Ability to perform duties in a timely manner, ability to work well with other employees and supervisors.
• Ability to perform duties such as those listed in the Examples of Duties section and ability to pass entry level general aptitude test with a minimum score of 70%.

An in-house written test will be provided for this position.

• Preferably some operational experience in an industrial or municipal wastewater or water treatment plant.
• Experience as a semi-skilled mechanic in the maintenance of motors, pumps, and related equipment associated with water or wastewater treatment preferred.
• Completion of standard high school courses in biology, chemistry, math, or related scientific areas; related college course work or degree preferred and/or associate degree in mechanical technology; or any combination of training and experience which provides the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities.

The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications listed. The City of Kalamazoo is most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. If you have transferable experience, please tell us about it. This approach will give each current and potential employee the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the City of Kalamazoo.

The City of Kalamazoo offers competitive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, group life insurance, long and short-term disability, paid time off, a defined benefits pension plan, a 457 deferred compensation plan, and a retirement health care savings plan (HCSP). Benefits vary based on the bargaining unit of a position.

The City of Kalamazoo also operates a convenient health clinic that is open to employees, retirees, and their families and provides routine medical services and prescriptions.

For a summary of City of Kalamazoo benefits in AFSCME positions, please visit our website:

Please note: These benefits are subject to change.