Plant Operator-in-Training (Water Operations)

Public Works

Division

Water Operations

• The wage for this position is set by the IUOE Collective Bargaining Agreement, starting at step A: $29.30/hourly
• Position Salary range is $29.30 - $33.72/hourly

SUMMARY OF POSITION

Under the direction of the Water Manager or designee, operates motorized equipment and performs plant and facility operations and maintenance including grounds keeping; serves as Plant Operator Trainee performing Plant Operator functions as needed.

Works rotating shifts, to include weekends and holidays.

Click here to review the full job description for this position.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

This position will be posted internally/externally concurrently for ten (10) working days. However, only qualified, regular full-time, IUOE City employees will be given first consideration if they apply within the first five (5) working days of posting.

If no qualified regular IUOE City employees apply within the internal posting close date/time, then all qualified external applicants will be considered. Internal qualified IUOE applicants who apply after the initial five (5) day promotional posting will compete with qualified external applicants.

Selection will be based on overall qualifications, skills testing (if applicable) and an interview process. Final candidate selected will be subject to a comprehensive background/reference check and pre-employment physical commensurate to the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One (1) year of experience in the operations or construction of potable water systems.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that will provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Valid driver’s license upon hire date.
• Washington State “Operator-in-Training” certificate within six (6) months of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Plant Operator I certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Distribution Manager I certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Plant Operator II certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Distribution Manager II certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Plant Operator III certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.
• Washington State Water Distribution Manager III certificate within one (1) year of eligibility to test.

WE ARE RICHLAND

At the City of Richland, your work makes a difference every day. From maintaining essential services to enhancing our community, you’ll be part of a team that values teamwork, integrity and excellence in what we do.

With a strong sense of purpose, great benefits, and a commitment to growth, we are building a community we’re proud to serve.

Richland Rewards – Supporting Those Who Serve

Summary of City of Richland benefits for IUOE affiliated staff (union-represented employees)

Regular Full-Time Employee Benefits

• Excellent preferred provider plan with a substantial City-paid contribution
• City-paid dental and vision plans
• City-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance (equals two times the employees annual salary)
• City-paid Long-term Disability Insurance
• Participation in the State of Washington's Retirement Plan (PERS)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 10 Paid Holidays
• 4% City-match (base pay) deferred compensation plan 457
• Extended Sick Leave (ESL)
• City-paid and Employee-paid Retirement Health Savings Plan
• Section 125 - Flexible Benefits Plan (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Employee Assistance Program

Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual

Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual Rates

**Rates subject to change based upon collective bargaining agreement (CBA). See CBA for eligibility requirements. For 2025-2027 IUOE CBA, rates are as follows:

Years of Continuous Service**Hours Per Month**

0-9: 20.17

10-15: 22.17

16-20: 24.17

20+: 26.17

The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting and retaining a highly qualified and diversified work force. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age (over 40), martial or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.

In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities will be provided for participation in the application and selection process, if requested. Persons with a disability who need assistance must notify the Human Resources Department about the accommodation needed at the time of application and prior to the closing date by calling (509) 942-7392.

The provisions of job announcements listed on this website do not constitute an expressed, or implied, contract of employment with the City. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.