What are the responsibilities and job description for the APPRENTICE - UTILITY OPERATOR position at City of St. Peters?
Job Summary The City of St. Peters is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Water & Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee. This opportunity is part of a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program, combining paid, hands-on experience with structured learning aligned to industry standards.
In this role, the trainee performs complex manual labor in the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment facilities while receiving on-the-job training toward a "D" Level operator certification. The position requires both physical and mental effort, as well as the ability to identify issues, contribute to effective solutions, and support operational performance under the guidance of certified operators.
Apprenticeship candidates will be evaluated based on both minimum qualifications and readiness indicators that reflect commitment, academic performance, and interest in developing a career in the water and wastewater treatment field.
Normal Shift: This position may require availability Monday through Sunday, with hours per week and daily shift start and end times varying based on operational needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist certified operators in operating and maintaining water and wastewater treatment plant systems, including telemetry controls, motors, pumps, and related equipment
- Monitor and help control water treatment, distribution, and wastewater treatment processes
- Operate, monitor, and maintain belt filter presses and dewatering equipment for biosolids treatment
- Perform minor repairs, routine maintenance, housekeeping, and general plant upkeep to maintain safe and clean facilities
- Support compliance with City, State, and Federal regulations by monitoring plant operations
- Collect and analyze water, wastewater, and bacteria samples
- Accurately enter operational data into computerized systems on a daily basis
- Respond to emergency situations in accordance with established procedures under supervision
- Address customer and resident inquiries, concerns, and complaints professionally
- Assist with maintaining inventory of treatment chemicals
- Follow all established City safety standards and protocols
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully authorized alien worker.
- Must currently be enrolled in a U.S. Department of Labor Nationally Recognized Apprenticeship Program.
- Motor Vehicle Operator's license, valid in the state of Missouri.
- Cannot be colorblind.
- Basic computer skills.
In addition to minimum qualifications, applicants for this apprenticeship should meet the following program standards:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Complete two (2) Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses related to the field
- Submit an application through zumwaltapprenticeships.com
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in apprenticeship-related coursework
- Maintain at least a 90% overall attendance rate for grades 9-12
- Maintain at least a 95% on-time attendance record
- Be passing all current coursework
- Be on track to graduate
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States
- Obtain two instructor recommendations
- Participate in an apprenticeship visit with an industry partner
Why Join Us This is a great opportunity to build a long-term career in water and wastewater operations while gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized training. You'll work alongside experienced, certified operators in a collaborative environment that values safety, learning, and professional growth. The City of St. Peters is committed to supporting employees as they develop their skills and advance within the field.
Apply Today If you're ready to start a meaningful career supporting essential public services, we encourage you to apply and join our team.
All candidates for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of these checks. The City is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free work environment and requires all employees to adhere to these standards.