Water Reclamation Facility Operations Specialist (Overnight Position) in Chester

This position is responsible for performing specialized duties in the operation of a water reclamation (wastewater treatment) facility. The role works alone.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Monitors plant for proper operation and ensures compliance with all state and federal permit requirements.
• Ensures compliance with safe work policies and procedures.
• Performs equipment checks and process operations, reads, records, and interprets data presented on the process instrumentation control system.
• Collects samples, performs limited laboratory analyses to ensure that treatment facilities are operating efficiently, and carries out corrective actions.
• Responds to process control alarms, corrects problems, or contacts appropriate personnel.
• Performs custodial and security duties.
• Responds to after‑hours emergencies, if needed.
• Obtains South Dakota Wastewater Operator Certification and attends required training classes.
• Responsible for security and oversight of the facilities, monitoring and observing trespassing, theft, or other criminal activity and reporting it at the time of observation.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge Required By The Position:

• Basic water reclamation operations and equipment such as pumps, valves, piping, motors, air compressors, and blowers.
• Computers, programmable logic controllers, automation control, SCADA, and related software programs.
• Chemistry, mathematics, and biology.
• Safe work principles and practices.
• Department policies, procedures, and federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Operation and maintenance of mechanical and electronic equipment.
• Use of hand and power tools.
• Planning, organization, and decision‑making.
• Oral and written communication.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of specialized technical or vocational training in the field of work, or equivalent experience.
• Maturity to work alone and react quickly and competently when situations arise.
• At least one to two years of experience in a similar position.
• Valid driver’s license issued by the State of South Dakota, or capability to operate the required vehicle or equipment.
• Ability to obtain a Class 1 Wastewater Operator Certification within 18 months of employment.

Residency: All new hires must reside within 40 miles of city limits unless specific approval is obtained from the City Manager.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: Work alternately sits, stands, stoops, walks, bends, or crouches. Frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring dexterity, and distinguishes among shades of color. Sets are performed in a wastewater treatment plant, sometimes outdoors in cold or inclement weather, and may involve exposure to machinery with moving parts and infectious diseases. Protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves are required. The work schedule comprises a two‑week pay period with one 36‑hour week and one 44‑hour week (including overtime).

Closing Date: Open until filled.