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Employee Application

 

DPW Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator – Level 1 / Operator in Training

Position Title: Wastewater Operator / Laborer / Truck Driver / Equipment Operator
Working Title: Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator – Level 1 / Operator in Training (OIT)
Department: Public Works
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt / Hourly
Reports To: Director of Public Works / Utilities Manager or designee
Day-to-Day Direction: Lead WWTP Operator / Operator in Charge, as assigned

Application Information

The City of Peshtigo welcomes both experienced wastewater operators and individuals interested in learning and growing into the position. The City is willing to train a motivated applicant and assist with progression toward required Wisconsin wastewater operator certifications.

Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not currently possess all wastewater certifications or related experience.

Applications and resumes are due by 4:30 p.m. on October 30, 2026.

Applications and resumes may be emailed to katieb@ci.peshtigo.wi.gov or submitted in person at:

Peshtigo City Hall
331 French Street
Peshtigo, WI 54157

Position Summary

The Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator – Level 1 / Operator in Training performs wastewater treatment plant duties while learning plant operations and progressing toward required Wisconsin wastewater operator certification.

This full-time position also supports general Department of Public Works operations so the City can efficiently provide wastewater, utility, street, equipment, snow and ice, and other municipal services.

The City anticipates that approximately 60% of available operator hours will be scheduled at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, depending on staffing, regulatory requirements, seasonal workload, emergencies, and other operational priorities. This allocation is an operational expectation and does not limit the City from assigning other Public Works duties as needed.

Essential Functions and Related Tasks

  1. Operate, monitor, inspect, clean, and assist with maintenance of wastewater treatment plant processes, equipment, pumps, controls, digesters, aerators, screens, valves, meters, lift stations, buildings, and related facilities under appropriate direction.
  2. Perform routine sampling, testing, process checks, and laboratory duties and accurately record readings, test results, operating data, and other required information.
  3. Assist the Lead Operator / Operator in Charge and supervisory staff with regulatory records, reports, permit requirements, inspections, audits, and compliance documentation.
  4. Respond to alarms, call-ins, equipment issues, weather-related needs, and emergency or non-emergency on-call assignments as scheduled or directed.
  5. Assist with preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, housekeeping, inventory, and supply management at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
  6. Perform general Public Works duties as assigned, including street and storm sewer maintenance, water and sewer support, snow and ice control, equipment operation, hauling, excavation, municipal facility maintenance, sanitation support, and seasonal work.
  7. Operate City vehicles, trucks, tools, and equipment safely and responsibly and complete required vehicle and equipment inspections.
  8. Follow City and department safety procedures, including personal protective equipment, confined-space procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, hazard reporting, and safe equipment operation.
  9. Communicate professionally with residents, coworkers, supervisors, contractors, laboratories, regulatory agencies, and other units of government.
  10. Carry out written and verbal instructions efficiently, work independently when appropriate, and exercise sound judgment when immediate supervision is not available.
  11. Protect City property and equipment and promptly report safety concerns, equipment failures, spills, overflows, unusual operating conditions, damage, or unlawful activity.
  12. Maintain accurate daily work records, operating logs, inspection records, maintenance documentation, and incident reports as assigned.
  13. Participate in training and certification activities required for progression within the City's wastewater operator structure.
  14. Perform other related duties as necessary or assigned.

Certification Progression – Level 1 / Operator in Training

The employee will be expected to:

  • Obtain and maintain Wisconsin DNR wastewater operator certification at the Operator in Training level or higher within City-established timelines.
  • Pass the Wisconsin DNR Wastewater General Exam and at least one required subclass exam within City-established timelines.
  • Learn plant operations, sampling, testing, safety procedures, documentation, equipment operation, troubleshooting, and compliance expectations under the direction of qualified operators and supervisory staff.
  • Continue progression toward Level 2, Level 3, and Lead Operator consistent with City certification requirements, job descriptions, approved wage schedules, and applicable labor agreements.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license, safe driving record, and dependable transportation.
  • Must have, or be able to obtain within the probationary period or another City-established timeline, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required for assigned Public Works equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to safely operate vehicles, tools, pumps, equipment, and machinery used in wastewater and Public Works operations.
  • Basic math skills sufficient to perform wastewater calculations, chemical and biological testing, record results, observe trends, and follow operating instructions.
  • Basic computer skills sufficient for email, electronic records, routine correspondence, reports, and regulatory documentation.
  • Ability to work independently, follow instructions, maintain accurate records, communicate effectively, and maintain professional working relationships.
  • Ability to participate in rotating, weekend, holiday, after-hours, emergency, and on-call assignments as operational needs require.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

Work is performed indoors and outdoors in wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, public rights-of-way, utility areas, streets, municipal buildings, excavations, confined spaces, uneven terrain, traffic areas, and variable weather conditions.

The employee may be exposed to wastewater, pathogens, odors, chemicals, fuels, exhaust, noise, heat, cold, precipitation, and other Public Works conditions.

The employee must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, reach, lift, carry, push, pull, and perform physical labor for extended periods. The employee may be required to lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally move heavier objects with mechanical or physical assistance.

Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

 

DPW Mechanic / Laborer / Truck Driver / Equipment Operator

Position Title: Public Works Mechanic / Laborer / Truck Driver / Equipment Operator
Working Title: DPW Mechanic / City Mechanic
Department: Public Works
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt / Hourly
Reports To: Director of Public Works or designee

Application Information

The City of Peshtigo welcomes experienced mechanics as well as mechanically inclined applicants who are willing to learn and develop additional skills.

The City is willing to train the right candidate. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not currently possess every preferred qualification or certification.

Applications and resumes are due by 4:30 p.m. on October 30, 2026.

Applications and resumes may be emailed to katieb@ci.peshtigo.wi.gov or submitted in person at:

Peshtigo City Hall
331 French Street
Peshtigo, WI 54157

Position Summary

The DPW Mechanic serves as the City's primary in-house position for routine inspection, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and service coordination for Public Works vehicles, trucks, heavy equipment, small-engine equipment, tools, and related municipal equipment.

This position also performs general Public Works Laborer / Truck Driver / Equipment Operator duties as staffing, seasonal workload, emergencies, and operational needs require.

The position is intended to reduce equipment downtime, support safe and dependable City operations, maintain accurate fleet and maintenance records, and provide flexible operational support throughout the Department of Public Works.

Essential Functions and Related Tasks

  1. Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair City vehicles, trucks, heavy equipment, trailers, small-engine equipment, tools, and related Public Works equipment within the employee's training and qualifications.
  2. Perform and document preventative maintenance, including lubrication, fluid changes, filters, belts, batteries, tires, lights, brakes, steering, suspension, cooling systems, electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and other routine mechanical work as assigned and qualified.
  3. Identify equipment defects, safety issues, and repair priorities and advise supervisory staff when equipment should be removed from service or requires outside repair.
  4. Coordinate with outside vendors, dealers, and repair facilities for specialized repairs, warranty service, parts, inspections, and work that cannot reasonably be completed in-house.
  5. Maintain accurate vehicle and equipment service records, preventative maintenance schedules, repair histories, parts usage, warranties, and related documentation.
  6. Maintain an organized work area and assist with management of parts, fluids, tools, shop supplies, and inventory consistent with City purchasing procedures.
  7. Perform basic fabrication, welding, cutting, fitting, or equipment modification when trained, qualified, and assigned.
  8. Prepare vehicles and equipment for seasonal operations, including snow and ice equipment, mowing equipment, trailers, pumps, and other seasonal machinery.
  9. Provide roadside, field, or emergency mechanical assistance when practical and safe to do so.
  10. Operate City vehicles, trucks, tools, and equipment safely and responsibly and complete required pre-trip, post-trip, or equipment inspections.
  11. Perform general Public Works duties as assigned, including snow and ice control, street maintenance, storm sewer work, water and sewer support, sanitation, hauling, excavation, municipal building and grounds work, and emergency response.
  12. Follow City and department safety procedures, use required personal protective equipment, and comply with applicable equipment, shop, hazardous material, and workplace safety requirements.
  13. Communicate professionally with coworkers, supervisors, vendors, contractors, and the public and promptly report mechanical, safety, or operational concerns.
  14. Participate in emergency, after-hours, and on-call assignments as determined by the Director of Public Works or designee.
  15. Perform other related duties as necessary or assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license, safe driving record, and dependable transportation.
  • Must have, or be able to obtain within the probationary period or another City-established timeline, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required for assigned Public Works equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to safely use common hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, shop equipment, vehicles, and machinery.
  • Ability to read and follow service manuals, maintenance schedules, parts information, safety instructions, and written work orders.
  • Ability to maintain accurate service and maintenance records and use basic computer systems, email, and electronic documentation.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize repairs, exercise sound judgment, follow instructions, and communicate effectively.
  • Ability and willingness to perform general Public Works labor and equipment operation in addition to mechanic duties.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred qualifications may include:

  • Experience maintaining or repairing trucks, heavy equipment, municipal equipment, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, or a related fleet.
  • Technical school, apprenticeship, military, or other formal training in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, industrial maintenance, welding, or a related field.
  • Experience with diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical diagnostics, welding/fabrication, and snow and ice equipment.
  • ASE, manufacturer, welding, or other relevant technical certifications.

Prior professional mechanic experience is welcomed but is not intended to prevent a mechanically capable applicant who is willing to train from applying.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

Work is performed in a municipal shop and in outdoor field conditions throughout the City. Work may involve vehicles and heavy equipment, moving machinery, oils and fuels, exhaust, chemicals, noise, traffic, uneven terrain, hot and cold temperatures, precipitation, and emergency or roadside conditions.

The employee must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, work beneath or around equipment, use tools for extended periods, and perform physical labor.

The employee may be required to lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally move heavier objects with mechanical or physical assistance.

Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

The City of Peshtigo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.