Job Summary
Collier County Public Utilities is hiring Plant Operators at multiple experience levels, from entry-level trainees to experienced licensed professionals.
Starting hourly pay is based on the applicant's qualifications, relevant experience, and current State of Florida FDEP Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
Plant Operator Trainee: $22.18/hour Plant Operator Trainee Classification
Plant Operator I: $26.19/hour Plant Operator I Classification
Plant Operator II: $28.32/hour Plant Operator II Classification
Plant Operator III: $30.63/hour Plant Operator III Classification
Applicants may qualify for placement directly into Plant Operator I, II, or III without starting at the Trainee level.
Essential Functions
The purpose of this classification is to perform operational and technical work involving the operation, monitoring, process control, maintenance, sampling, laboratory testing, and general upkeep of wastewater treatment plant facilities, systems, and equipment for Collier County Public Utilities.
Positions may be filled at the Plant Operator Trainee, I, II, or III level depending on the candidate's qualifications, experience, licenses, and certifications.
The following duties are typical of these classifications. Specific responsibilities vary based on the level at which the position is filled. Additional duties may be required and assigned.
Operates and monitors wastewater treatment plant systems, equipment, and processes to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Monitors chemical feeds, flow rates, pressure levels, and treatment processes; makes adjustments as necessary to maintain compliance with applicable regulations.
Reads meters, gauges, and monitoring equipment; records operational data and maintains accurate logs and reports.
Collects samples, performs routine laboratory testing, and documents results in accordance with established procedures.
Inspects plant equipment, pumps, motors, valves, and related systems; identifies maintenance needs and performs routine preventive maintenance.
Troubleshoots operational issues and assists with equipment repairs and process-control adjustments.
Maintains plant facilities, equipment, and grounds to ensure safe and orderly working conditions.
Uses computerized monitoring systems and software to document plant operations and monitor treatment performance.
Responds to operational emergencies and assists with corrective actions to maintain uninterrupted plant operations.
Follows established safety procedures and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Participates in training, certification, and professional development activities.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE – $22.18/HOUR
Entry-level position; no prior FDEP treatment operator license required.
Receives hands-on training under the direction of licensed Plant Operators.
Must obtain the applicable FDEP Class C Wastewater Treatment Operator License within two (2) years of hire.
Provides a career pathway toward Plant Operator I upon meeting applicable licensing, experience, and County requirements.
PLANT OPERATOR I – $26.19/HOUR
Requires two (2) years of related experience.
Must possess an applicable FDEP Class C Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
Performs routine treatment plant operations with greater independence.
Assists with training and mentoring Plant Operator Trainees.
Opportunities for advancement upon meeting experience requirements and obtaining the applicable FDEP Class B license.
PLANT OPERATOR II – $28.32/HOUR
Requires three (3) years of related experience.
Must possess an applicable FDEP Class B Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
Performs intermediate operational and technical duties, including process-control adjustments and troubleshooting.
Provides technical guidance to less-experienced operators.
Opportunities for advancement upon meeting experience requirements and obtaining the applicable FDEP Class A license.
PLANT OPERATOR III – $30.63/HOUR
Requires five (5) years of related experience.
Must possess an applicable FDEP Class A Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
Performs advanced plant operations, process optimization, and complex troubleshooting.
Assists with emergency response and provides technical leadership and mentoring.
Serves as the highest-level non-supervisory classification within the Plant Operator career series.
ONE APPLICATION – MULTIPLE CAREER LEVELS
Plant Operator Trainee / Plant Operator I / Plant Operator II / Plant Operator III
Applicants only need to submit one application to be considered for the classification that best matches their qualifications.
Whether you are beginning your career or already hold an advanced Florida operator license, Collier County offers opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
Join Collier County Public Utilities and help provide essential wastewater services to our community!
Supplemental information
Salary offers above the minimum pay grade may be considered based on qualifications.
Essential Employees may be required to work during an undeclared or declared emergency. The County’s Administrative Office will determine who will be required to work on an incident-by-incident basis.
This job posting is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position.
Collier County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable law. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities. Veterans’ Preference is provided to eligible applicants in accordance with Florida law.
Collier County BCC offers a variety of benefits to both regular full and part-time
employees. For information, click here to view the comprehensive benefits package we have to offer when you join our team.
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APPLICANT NOTICE: Your answers below will be used to review this application. The experience listed here MUST match the work history provided in your application. Please note, it is not acceptable to use "See Resume" or "See Above" in your answers below and we do not accept resumes as a substitute for a completed application.
- I understand and agree with the statements above.
- I do not agree with the statements above.
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Do you have a High School Diploma or GED? (Please upload a copy)
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What level of State of Florida FDEP Wastewater Treatment Operator License do you currently possess?
- Class A Wastewater Treatment Operator License
- Class B Wastewater Treatment Operator License
- Class C Wastewater Treatment Operator License
- No current FDEP Wastewater Treatment Operator License
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How many years of professional experience do you have in wastewater treatment plant operations?
- No experience
- 1 year to less than 2 years
- 2 years to less than 3 years
- 3 years to less than 5 years
- 5 or more years
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Are you willing and able to obtain and maintain the required FDEP Wastewater Treatment Operator License within the timeframe established for the classification in which you are hired?
- Yes
- No
- I currently possess the required license
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Do you possess a valid driver's license?
