Wastewater Operator Trainee, I, II, or III

About Us

Tallahassee, a diverse community of nearly 200,000 residents, is the state capital and home to Florida A&M University, Florida State University, and Tallahassee State College. It is known for its national forest, freshwater lakes, and abundant parks and recreational activities. Located in the north-central portion of the state of Florida.

The City, as an organization, has a devoted workforce of approximately 4,000 people who come together to ensure the needs of the community are met through municipal services. These services include Police, Fire, Utilities (electric, gas, water, wastewater, stormwater), Parks and Recreation, Aviation-Tallahassee International Airport, and general municipal services. The City's mission is to be the national leader in the delivery of public service.

The City of Tallahassee's workforce is our community's lifeblood, we offer diverse career opportunities, a positive work-life balance, competitive compensation, exceptional wellness programs, and comprehensive benefits, all of which position us to be the premier employer of choice for this area.

Apply On Or Before

Apply on or before 11pm on Friday, December 4th, 2026

Department Name

Underground Utilities & Public Infrastructure

Job Specifications

The City of Tallahassee's Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators play an important role in helping protect public health and the environment by ensuring wastewater is safely treated every day. Whether you're starting your career or already have experience in plant operations, multiple levels of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator positions are available to match your skills and support your growth. If you enjoy hands-on work, solving problems, and serving your community, we encourage you to apply!

What you'll do:

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

• Work alongside experienced operators while learning the basics of wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Assist with collecting samples, monitoring plant equipment, and recording operational information.
• Help with routine maintenance, equipment repairs, tank draining, and general housekeeping duties.
• Learn how to safely operate equipment and maintain treatment processes that support environmental compliance.
• Participate in training designed to prepare you for Florida wastewater operator certification.
• After training and orientation, begin performing routine plant operation duties with guidance from licensed operators.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I, II, III (Progressive Levels)

• Help operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities to support safe and efficient plant operations.
• Monitor plant equipment, pumps, tanks, and treatment systems to ensure everything is working properly.
• Perform routine maintenance and assist with troubleshooting equipment issues.
• Collect samples, complete routine testing, and maintain operational records and reports.
• Work with supervisors and team members to support continuous plant operations.
• Respond to operational issues and assist during emergency situations when needed.
• Higher-level Operators (II and III) take on more advanced responsibilities and work more independently.
• Operator III positions may provide guidance to other operators and help support overall plant operations.
• Duties increase in responsibility and complexity at each progressive level. Please see job descriptions for more information.

Preferred Qualifications (All Levels)

• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn plant operations and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving and attention to detail skills.
• Ability to read gauges, charts, and basic operational information.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety and public service.
• Ability to perform hands-on work in an industrial environment.

For the complete job specification, listing essential duties and desirable qualifications, go to

Minimum Training & Experience

General Requirements (All Levels)

• Applicants must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
• High school diploma or an equivalent recognized certificate is required.
• Coursework in basic mathematics and chemistry is preferred.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Class E State driver's license as a condition of continued employment.

Wastewater Operator Trainee

• No prior wastewater operations experience required.
• Must obtain a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "C" Wastewater Operator Certificate within two (2) years of employment.

Wastewater Operator I

• One (1) year of experience in wastewater operations and maintenance.
• Must possess and maintain a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "C" Wastewater Operator Certificate.

Wastewater Operator II

• Two (2) years of experience in wastewater operations and maintenance.
• Must possess and maintain a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "B" Wastewater Operator Certificate.

Wastewater Operator III

• Four (4) years of experience in wastewater operations and maintenance.
• Must possess and maintain a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "A" Wastewater Operator Certificate.

Salary Range

$13.9273 to $58.7999/hourly.

Benefits Information

For details on benefits available to eligible City employees, visit the City's interactive benefits tool ALEX or review the City's Benefits Summary.

How To Apply

Visit Talgov.com/Employment click on the 'Apply Today' button, then navigate to 'My Job Applications' icon, and create an account. Only online applications will be accepted for this vacancy. Remember, you must complete all sections of the application, including the education and work history section, even if this information is included on your resume.

If you have any questions regarding this position or the application process, please contact the City's Human Resources and Workforce Development Department at ....

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The City of Tallahassee is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to promoting equity and celebrating diversity. The City of Tallahassee invites applications without regard to an individual's race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Veterans' Preference:

Certain service members and veterans, and the spouses of the service members and veterans, will receive preference and priority, and certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. For information on who may be eligible for Veterans' Preference, go to , or call Human Resources & Workforce Development at ....To claim Veterans' Preference, applicants must upload a DD-214 (and other documentation, as applicable) with their online application prior to the closing date of the job opening.

Accommodation for Persons with a Disability:

If you require an accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the City's ADA Coordinator, in the Office of Diversity & Inclusion, at ... or at ... Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or TDD 711, at least 48 hours, (excluding weekends and holidays), prior to the application deadline.

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