Plant Operator Trainee - City

PAY

Pay Range: 413

Hourly Rate: $21.45 - $33.29

The normal starting pay for this position is the minimum of the pay range listed above. A higher rate of pay may be considered, dependent on the qualifications and experience of the selected applicant and/or the City’s step placement policy.

RESPIRATOR FIT/CARDIOPULMONARY TEST

All applicants considered for employment must be able to pass a respirator fit and cardiopulmonary test. Successful applicants must be able to utilize all safety equipment within its design capacities. (Examples: Fall protection/arrest systems, ladders/lifts, confined space entry gear, etc.).

ELIGIBILITY LIST PREFERENCE ORDER

Full-time City employees will receive preference in the following order: major division first, then department, then all other full-time City employees. Part-time/year-round City employees will receive preference next. If there are no qualified full-time City employees or part-time/year-round City employees, external applicants will then be considered (when the vacancy is open to external applicants).

APPLICATION, HIRING, AND BACKGROUND

• When completing the application, applicants will be asked to respond to application questions. These application questions are based on the Job Requirements for the position.
• Completion of the application questions is required.
• Applicant responses to the application questions must specifically answer the questions asked.
• Responses to application questions must be supported by work history/information listed on the application/resume, sufficient to demonstrate qualifications for the position.
• Applicants may upload only two attachments. Attachments may include, but are not limited to a resume, cover letter, DD214 or NGB Form 22, transcripts, etc. Applicants may also choose to combine documents into one field for upload.
• Applications may not be reviewed if specific responses to application questions have not been provided.
• Each application submission is reviewed independently.

For detailed information about the City’s hiring and background processes, check out the : Quick Guide to Hiring and Background Checks

If you have questions, check out the: Frequently Asked Questions

TOTAL REWARDS

At the City of Oklahoma City, our Total Rewards package is designed to honor your service, fuel your growth, and support every part of your life. We offer:

• Competitive pay
• An average of $22,000 annually contributed toward your benefits and retirement
• A comprehensive package designed to support your health and wellness, financial security, work-life balance, and personal and professional growth and development

Explore all the ways we invest in you: City of Oklahoma City Total Rewards

POSITION DESIGNATION

This job classification has been designated as a safety sensitive job classification in accordance with the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act, 63 O.S., § 427.1 et seq., (OSCN 2019), effective August 29, 2019. This means employees in this job classification can be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination if they test positive for marijuana components or metabolites, even if they possess a medical marijuana license.

DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION

The Water Quality Division is currently hiring for Plant Operator Trainee positions on the night shift (9:00 PM to 9:00 AM) at both the Hefner and Draper Water Treatment Plants.

JOB SUMMARY

This posting will be used to fill current vacancies in the Water Quality Division of the Utilities Department within the City of Oklahoma City. An eligibility list will be established or supplemented for filling future vacancies per provisions of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Plant Operator Trainee receives on-the-job training from a Plant Operator I or other more experienced individuals and works closely with other plant personnel in performing tasks during initial training. The work performed is standardized in nature but requires a functional knowledge of plant facilities, as well as skills in operating plant equipment and machinery. The Plant Operator Trainee is responsible for inspecting and monitoring assigned areas of plant operations to ensure established procedures are followed in maintaining the proper treatment of water and for performing maintenance as may be needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Recording and compiling data for operating logs and reports.
• Collecting samples and performing laboratory tests in compliance with regulatory and department requirements.
• Operating, inspecting, and maintaining plant equipment and facilities.
• Exchanging technical information with other plant employees.
• Collecting and reporting data requiring intermediate level mathematical calculations and computer skills.
• Monitoring and troubleshooting treatment processes, to ensure the delivery of potable water to the distribution network consistent with health and environmental requirements according to federal, state, and department drinking water standards.
• Performing general plant operations and processes.
• Performing minor and major mechanical repairs of plant, machinery, and components.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

VETERANS PREFERENCE

Honorably discharged veterans of the United States Active Duty Armed Forces, National Guard, and Reserve Forces who are not currently employed full-time by the City of Oklahoma City and who meet the qualifications for the position shall be given preference. To receive preference, veterans must submit verification of honorable discharge from the United States military service (Department of Defense Form DD214 or NGB Form 22) prior to the closing date of the vacancy announcement.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Possession or ability to obtain an Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality Class “D” Waterworks license.
• Ability to obtain an Oklahoma State Class “C” Waterworks license.

NOTE: The Plant Operator Trainee incumbent must possess or obtain an Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality Class “D” Waterworks license within six (6) months from date of hire/promotion/transfer/demotion and within eighteen (18) months an Oklahoma State Class “C” Waterworks license from date of hire/promotion/transfer/demotion.

When the Plant Operator Trainee acquires or obtains the Class “C” Waterworks license, the incumbent will career progress to the Plant Operator I classification without a competitive selection process. Continued employment is contingent upon the trainee obtaining the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality Class “D” Waterworks license within six (6) months from the date of hire/promotion/transfer/demotion and the Oklahoma State Class “C” Waterworks license within eighteen (18) months from the date of hire/promotion/transfer/demotion.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Skill in recording information accurately in written form using logs, spreadsheets, or other technology.
• Skill in utilizing the latest computer software, technology, and recordkeeping information tracking systems.
• Skill in accurately communicating verbally, in writing, or by physical demonstration.
• Ability to follow instructions and plant procedures.
• Ability and willingness to exercise established environmental safety precautions for the work performed for self, co-workers, and public.
• Ability to supervise performance of work activities of newer or less experienced plant operator trainees.
• Ability to travel.
• Ability and willingness to make work-related decisions.
• Ability and willingness to meet and maintain physical health standards and guidelines for the work performed.
• Ability and willingness to assume responsibility for work performed and related decisions made.
• Ability and willingness to perform semi-hazardous and hazardous tasks.

COMPETENCIES

• One City, One Team (Teamwork/Team Oriented) (1) Recognizes, values, and leverages the ideas, opinions, and perspectives of others; (2) participates willingly and effectively as a team lead or team member; (3) builds consensus; fosters team commitment, spirit, pride, and trust; (4) collaborates with others to accomplish goals and objectives and achieve results; (5) expresses facts, ideas, messages, and information (technical and non-technical) to individuals or groups clearly, concisely, accurately, understandably, with honesty, tact, and diplomacy and in a manner that is appropriate for the intended audience; (6) actively listens, clarifies information as needed; (7) [Core Value One City, One Team] shares information, resources and solutions across departments; (8) [Core Value One City, One Team] asks for help early and offers it often; (9) [Core Value One City, One Team] collaborates across teams before decisions are made.
• Service First (Customer Centric) (1) Demonstrates commitment to public service; (2) serves and satisfies internal and external customers in a timely and effective manner; (3) establishes, commits to, and maintains high standards for producing quality work products and being responsive to customers; (4) supports the Department/City's mission; develops and executes strategies with the customer in mind; (5) [Core Value Service First] acts quickly and follows through until the job is complete; (6) [Core Value Service First] serves everyone with genuine respect, diligence and professionalism; (7) [Core Value Service First] makes decisions with the people we serve in mind.
• Respect Always (Conduct) (1) Conducts oneself with the utmost integrity and professionalism; (2) demonstrates humility; (3) encourages people to share their perspectives, ideas, and opinions; (4) makes decisions based on a sense of shared purpose; (5) takes responsibility for actions and decisions; (6) resilient; (7) leans in to challenges and problems with creative solutions; (8) speaks up and challenges the status quo; (9) relies on the character, ability, strength, truth, and transparency of others and the organization; (10) [Core Value Respect Always] listens with curiosity and speaks with care; (11) [Core Value Respect Always] embraces different perspectives and lived experiences; (12) [Core Value Respect Always] gives feedback constructively and receives it openly.
• Own the Outcome (Execution and Results) (1) Sets well-defined and realistic goals and high standards of performance for self or self and others; (2) displays a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment toward performing work; (3) completes assignments in a thorough, accurate, and timely manner, and delivers results; (4) works with minimal supervision, is motivated to achieve, and demonstrates responsible behavior; (5) demonstrates understanding of all aspects of the job (as specified on the approved job description) and application of accrued knowledge in carrying out duties and responsibilities; technical knowledge; skill in the techniques, equipment, procedures, and work required; (6) [Core Value Own the Outcome] takes initiative to fix it or escalates issues; (7) [Core Value Own the Outcome] follows through on commitments; (8) [Core Value Own the Outcome] speaks up when accountability is missing.
• Keep Getting Better (Workplace Standards) (1) Takes meal periods and breaks according to policy; (2) ensures sick leave usage does not negatively impact productivity of work unit; (3) notifies supervisor of unscheduled absences; (4) accepts suggestions and supervision with a positive approach; (5) completes work timely and correctly; (6) [Core Value Keep Getting Better] takes time to reflect and act on what is working and what is not; (7) [Core Value Keep Getting Better] learns from mistakes without blaming; (8) [Core Value Keep Getting Better] supports self and other’s development and growth.
• Safety (1) Complies with all safety policies and practices; (2) promotes a safe work environment; (3) participates in safety meetings; current on completion of safety trainings.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Inside and outside, exposed to heat, cold, humidity, adverse weather conditions, etc.
• Subject to working in and around standing or flowing water or exposed to pressurized water and equipment.
• Subject to working on or around slippery surfaces.
• Subject to climbing portable ladders to heights up to 45 feet and climbing fixed ladders to heights up to 265 feet above ground level to work on tanks, platforms, grating and equipment.
• Subject to climbing down portable ladders to depths of 45 feet and climbing down fixed ladders to depths of 72 feet when working on equipment or in pits below ground.
• Subject to working in confined spaces and cramped positions where limited or restricted means of entry or exit exist.
• Subject to working near moving objects such as motor vehicles and plant machinery or equipment.
• Frequently exposed to constant noise at low levels and occasional loud noise for extended periods.
• Possibility of burns when working near or around heated metals and equipment.
• Frequently exposed to chemical vapors or fumes, dust, and natural respiratory hazards.
• Occasionally exposed to insects, plants, and other natural agents that cause allergic reactions.
• Occasionally exposed to potentially hazardous wildlife, such as, muskrats, beavers, boars, raccoons, birds, snakes, etc.
• Occasionally exposed to toxins and irritants, such as, corrosive chemicals, acids and cleaners, fuel, and other otherwise harmful substances.
• Possibility of electrocution, electrical shock, fire, or burn when working with electricity and electrical machinery.
• Possibility of chemical or thermal explosions.
• Frequently exposed to large concentrations of noxious odors.
• Possibility of exposure to blood borne pathogens, raw sewage, and other infectious agents.
• Subject to working irregular work hours, overtime, and on weekends and holidays.
• Frequently required to work rotating shifts.

Note : Typical City employee working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. However, working hours vary (may require work to begin before 8:00 a.m. and/or end beyond 5:00 p.m., and/or may require work on weekends and holidays), and are subject to change, based on the duties and location of the position and the business needs of the assigned work unit/department.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Strength enough to lift, carry, push, pull or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds frequently and/or up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Stamina enough to exert oneself physically throughout the workday.
• Flexibility enough to bend, twist, and reach while loading and unloading materials and equipment.
• Mobility enough to continuously move oneself from place to place.
• Gross body coordination and balance enough to perform work while standing on ladders, scaffolding, catwalks, tanks, etc.
• Arm-hand steadiness enough to perform tasks such as repairing pumps, motors, valves, piping, chemical feeder, etc.
• Manual and finger dexterity enough to use hand tools and replace small equipment or components.
• Near vision enough to perform tasks such as inspecting equipment and reading gauges, schematics, blueprints, etc.
• Far vision enough to observe co-workers at ground level, while working on tanks, in pits, and to identify warning signs at a distance of 20 feet, etc.
• Visual color discrimination enough to identify red, green, and yellow items.
• Speech and hearing enough to communicate clearly and distinctly in person and by two-way radio, understand conversation in a noisy environment, and locate malfunctions in machinery.
• Pulmonary function sufficient to use a self-contained breathing apparatus and respirator.
• Maximum body mass, including equipment weighing up to 30 pounds, not to exceed 310 pounds.

Note: The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

OTHER DETAILS

Eligibility List: An eligibility list will be established from this posting consisting of applicants who receive a score of 70 percent or better. Multiple selection procedures may be utilized; a minimum of 70 percent or better will be required on each; and the results of multiple selection procedures will be equally weighted. The eligibility list will be in effect for 180 days from the date of the final selection procedure and will be used to fill future vacancies.

Pay Method: City employees are required to receive pay electronically, either via direct deposit or pay card.

Former Employees: If this position is open to external applicants and you are a former employee, you must be eligible for rehire to participate in any selection process. If you are unsure of your rehire status, please contact the Human Resources Department at (405) 297-2530. If your rehire status has been coded “Not Eligible,” “Eligible 3,” or “Conditional,” you will need to request a review of your rehire status through the Human Resources Department’s Employee and Labor Relations Division.

Background Investigation, Drug Testing, Physical Examination: Upon a conditional offer of employment/acceptance of position, the City of Oklahoma City will conduct a criminal history background check for external applicants. Applicants will be provided contact information for any third-party reporting agencies used to collect background information in connection with conditional offers of employment.

If the position accepted includes a driver license (commercial or non-commercial) Job Requirement, the City of Oklahoma City will obtain a Motor Vehicle Report for internal and external applicants.

If the position accepted is safety sensitive and/or a driving position, internal and external applicants will be provided a copy of the City of Oklahoma City's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy prior to being directed for a drug test. A copy is also available at the link below:

AFSCME CBA Addendum C: Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy

If the position accepted is cyber security sensitive, internal and external applicants will be subject to a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Interstate Identification Index (III) Fingerprint Background check. Additionally, employees in this job classification must complete Level 4 Security Awareness Training and pass an online certification test.

If the position accepted includes a lift/push/pull/carry Physical Requirement of 25 pounds and greater, internal and external applicants will be directed for a physical examination.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

If you require reasonable accommodation at any time during the hiring process, please notify one of the Human Resources Department Representatives by calling 405-297-2530. The City of Oklahoma City will not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, actual or perceived sexual orientation, and gender identity and/or expression), national origin, age, disability (mental or physical) and genetic information (including family medical history).

About Us

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments–delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people. Visit Oklahoma City-A Great Place to Live and Work! to learn more about our city.

Our Vision: A vibrant, diverse, safe, and welcoming community

Our Mission: Deliver exceptional service to residents and visitors

Our Values: One City, One Team. Service First. Respect Always. Own the Outcome. Keep Getting Better.

We are proud to be recognized by Forbes as #20 on the list of America’s Best Employers by State (2025) and even prouder of the people who make that possible. Join our team and build a fulfilling career in public service, alongside talented, hardworking, and dedicated coworkers who provide essential services to thousands of residents and visitors every day.

Our Total Rewards package (full-time employees) reflects our deep investment in our employees’ health, growth, and future, with an average of $22,000 per employee annually in benefits and retirement. Why? Because when our employees thrive, our city thrives.