Plant Operator Trainee- Overnight

Applications will be accepted on-line from January 6th, 2026 until 11pm on January 20, 2026 at the website address

First review of applications will take place by January 23, 2026.

Please note: Incomplete applications cannot be considered. You will know you have completed the application when it has requested your signature.

This position requires a period of day-shift training period of approximately three to six months. This period is designed to familiarize the operator with after-hours emergency response at the wastewater plant, as well as basic water operator and safety training. Training will be conducted on four 10-hour day shifts with flexible days. After training, the position will transition to a night shift schedule of five 8-hour shifts from 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM, beginning Sunday night.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Water and/or Wastewater Plants Managers or the Senior Plants Operator performs tasks in the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants.

Work involves all aspects of operation and maintenance of the water and wastewater treatment systems. Employee follows instructions closely referring deviations in the work to others. Work is closely controlled and must be in compliance with applicable regulations and standards.

Essential Job Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Plants Operator performs duties with proficiency in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plant as well as distribution system pump stations and storage facilities in a safe manner.
• Plants Operator performs duties with proficiency in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plant and solids dewatering facility as well as collection system lift station pumps in a safe manner.
• Plants Operator will collect samples, perform laboratory analysis and make changes in processes as well as maintain records in written and electronic forms.
• All work must be in compliance with applicable policies, rules, regulations and laws.
• Adhere to the delegation authority for the water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, collection system and distribution system.
• Performs various janitorial and yard work duties at the water and wastewater facilities.
• Be an advocate that promoting health and safety in the workplace.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of principles, practices, materials and equipment used in water and wastewater treatment.

• Advanced computer skills to include the ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook as well as an asset management program.

• Thorough knowledge of current principles and practices applicable to assigned areas of responsibility; local, state and federal laws and regulations related to assigned functions.

Skills

• Skill in using common tools, equipment and materials of the trade.
• Strong attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Abilities

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, the public and others.
• The ability to write and speak clearly and concisely.
• Ability to communicate with the public, to speak and write clearly, maintain effective working relationships with others, and operate equipment in a safe manner.

Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be substituted.)

Required Education/Certifications Required

• High School diploma or G.E.D.
• Must have and maintain a valid Colorado class "R" driver's license.
• Must follow Colorado Regulation 100: Water and Wastewater facility operators certification requirements.
• Must acquire and maintain Class "D" certification in water or Class "D" certification in wastewater within one year, first test must be attempted within the first six months. The operator will be expected to advance in certifications including "C's", "B's" and "A's" throughout employment. The higher the certification achieved the more operational responsibility will be given the employee.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Two years of related experience is preferred.
• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Science is preferred
• Certified Colorado Water Professional in Treatment at any level is preferred

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• The Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant operations are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• May be required to work unusual hours, weekends and holidays.
• Employee is required to participate in a stand by or on call duty on a rotation basis.

Special Requirements

• Must provide own safety footwear.
• Must be available by telephone or other communication device.

Physical Demands

• Frequent use of keyboard devices, heavy lifting, reaching, stooping, bending, crawling, crouching and climbing.
• Work at work sites requiring walking over uneven or rough terrain; awareness of surroundings; exposure to dust, weather conditions, equipment, noise, etc. Work may require occasional exposure to hazards; exposure to dirt and soil; temperature extremes and unusual environmental conditions. Subject to call back in emergencies. Use fingers to operate computer or typewriter keyboards, hand tools, mechanical tools and devices.
• This position may be subjected to fumes, odors, chemicals, and moderate noises.

Unusual Demands

• Worker is subject to frequent interruptions and deadlines; subject to being on call; subject to work in hazards and unpleasant conditions; occasional exposure to inclement weather.
• Worker is required to provide assistance during call backs and emergencies, subject to reoccurring deadlines and interruptions, subject to work hazards and unpleasant conditions, occasional exposure to inclement weather, may be required to work beyond normally scheduled work hours.

This position is considered a "safety-sensitive" position and will be subject to monthly random drug and alcohol screening

This position is considered an "Essential" position to the District

Pueblo West Metropolitan District is an Equal Opportunity Employer