Operator in Training - Wastewater

Job Description

Job Title: Operator in Training - Wastewater

Posting Start Date: 6/1/26

Job Description:

Primary Role

"Looking for Your Next Big Career Move?"

Join us as an entry level Operator-in-Training (OIT). This is a great opportunity to learn and grow within American Water.

The Operator-in-Training (OIT) performs semi-skilled to skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of a two wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), three pump stations and two collection systems. Assists the lead operator who serves as the Direct Responsible Charge (DRC) and one other plant operator with operation, preventative maintenance and repair duties associated with an aerated lagoon and an extended aeration process and associated pump stations and collection systems. Assists DRC with process controls and performs plant operational duties including monitoring, sampling, troubleshooting and optimizing treatment performance.

Posted salary range: $28/hr - $38/hr

The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k),Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

#onsite

Key Accountabilities

• Completes tasks assigned by the DRC in timely and professional manner.
• Following completion of on-the-job training and instruction, the OIT will perform the following duties: The OIT will complete process control tests, perform sampling duties and basic laboratory analyses such as: pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and suspended solids.
• The OIT will monitor and maintain the following treatment processes: screening, biological treatment, and filtration as well as an injection well used for effluent disposal.
• The OIT will also operate and maintain all supporting equipment including pumps, compressors, chemical feeders and blowers.
• The OIT will assist the DRC and staff with the ordering of chemicals and materials, data collection, record keeping, grounds keeping and herbicide spraying.
• The OIT will assist the DRC with the unscheduled repairs of plant and pump station equipment.
• The OIT is expected to attend all safety training in order to learn, and vigorously apply, safe work practices at all times.
• The OIT must be willing to work a schedule that will include one “week-end” day and able to work a flexible schedule, when necessary, to substitute for absent operators or lab technicians.
• Periodically the OIT must serve as the “on-call” operator and respond to after hour emergencies such as sewage spills, power failures, chemical leakages, inclement weather, etc.
  
  

Knowledge/Skills

• A basic understanding of mechanics and hydraulics.
• Knowledge of the operation, methods, practices, techniques and maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment facilities and pump stations.
• Knowledge of safety practices in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment used in industrial facilities.
• Knowledge of procedures, materials, tools, equipment and safety hazards and precautions common to assigned area of responsibility.
• Ability to deal with and communicate effectively and courteously with internal and external customers as well as the general public.
• Ability to work independently and determine what equipment, tools and materials will be needed to complete assigned projects.
• Ability to safely use both hand tools and power tools.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in operational duties, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, the DRC, management personnel, and vendors.
• Ability to maintain open communications with the DRC on plant performance issues and make recommendations for corrective action if necessary.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, recording devices and general plant instrumentation.
• Ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date maintenance records.
• Ability to write legibly and make simple mathematical calculations accurately.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, shovel, sweep, walk and climb status.
• Ability to safely operate company motor vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions including summer heat.
• Ability to use computer/mobile devices tools to analyze and report plant data The OIT is expected to obtain his grade I certification within two years from the date of hire and obtain higher levels of certification as allowed by experience and training.
  
  

Experience/Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Years of experience vary depending upon level of position open and must be in wastewater utility industry as follows:
• Operator OIT. Required to obtain operator certificate within State mandated guidelines
• Operator 1: 1-3 years experience
• Operator 2: 3-5 years experience
• Operator 3: 5-8 years experience
• Sr. Operator: 8 years experience.
• Salary will be commensurate with experience and the grade of license held.
• Hawaii Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I license preferred or the ability to obtain within 2 years of hire is required.
• Basic computer skills required
  
  

Travel Requirements

• This role will require will both independent work and collaboration with a team
• Shift will be Sunday through Thursday 6am to 230pm
• On call responsibilities
• This position will report to this plant location: 68-260 Hoohana St Waimea, HI 96743
  
  

Other

• Position has the potential for exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, water and sewage.
• Must be flexible with work schedule, early mornings, late nights, and weekends
• Role may require you to be in a company vehicle for almost 2 hours at times
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to stand all day
• Inside and outside work as required
  
  

Competencies

Champions safety

Collaborates

Cultivates innovation

Customer obsessed

Drives Results

Nimble learning