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Jobs with benefits: Helping people, helping the environment.

Wastewater operator. It sounds like a dirty job, but it’s more about using science, collecting data and managing a system. It’s also a vital job for human and environmental health. Wastewater operators make sure water flushed from toilets, sinks, bathtubs, washing machines – all the water from homes and businesses – is cleaned up enough to be discharged to a lake or river.

If you have a job posting to submit, please fill out our contact form.

Educating

Small towns. Big cities. Communities across Minnesota are looking for wastewater operators, people who like science, like variety, like a steady job and like making a difference. These are jobs with benefits, including helping people and helping the environment.

You may qualify for this job through:

  • On-the-job training
  • 2-year program at Vermillion Community College or St. Cloud Technical College
  • 4-year degree in chemistry at any accredited college

Degree Programs Information

Minnesota North College, Vermillion – Website
888-223-8068
Wade.Klingsporn@vcc.edu
St Cloud Technical and Community College – Website
Gregg Kropp
Water Environment Technologies Instructor
320-308-5952
Gregg.kropp@sctcc.edu

St. Paul College – Website
Carol Kaszynski
Cell:   612-965-1666
Desk:  651-266-6295
Carol.Kaszynski@ci.stpaul.mn.us

Interceptor Operator – Experienced
Metropolitan Council
Environmental Services Division

The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning agency for the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area providing essential services to our region: transportation, wastewater collection and treatment, growth and development of local communities, affordable housing programs, and regional park systems.

Join an award-winning wastewater industry leader in protecting our environment! The Metropolitan Council’s Environmental Services (ES) division operates and maintains nine water resource recovery facilities in the Twin Cities metro area.

WOMEN AND MINORITIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

The first review of applications will begin on November 17, 2025.

The Interceptor Operator provides routine operation, preventative maintenance, and emergency repair of the regional wastewater collection systems and/or pumping stations. Required work duties include climbing down into wastewater structures and pipes, checking for obstructions, inspection and cleaning, working in confined spaces, and dealing with obnoxious odors. Will be assigned to a base ES facility in Eagan, Mound, or Mounds View; and may rotate among these locations.

Minimum Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent and one (1) year of verifiable work experience in HVAC, electrical, mechanical maintenance, or related field.

License Requirements:
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record. A CDL with Tanker and Air Brake endorsements must be obtained within six months. If needed, CDL training is provided by the Council.
• Must obtain a MN Wastewater Operator S-D Level certificate or higher within 18 months. Training preparation is provided by the Council.

Salary Range: $29.15 – $47.34 hourly

See complete job posting and apply:
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/metrocouncil

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (2nd Shift)
The City of Austin is seeking a dependable, safety-conscious individual to join our team as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. This essential role supports the health and sustainability of our community by operating and maintaining equipment used in the treatment of wastewater.

PAY RANGE
2025 Salary Range is $31.94 – $45.63 per hour.
Starting salary is dependent on experience.
Non-Exempt

APPLY NOW!
Priority will be given to applications received by Sunday, November 23, 2025.
Posting will remain open until filled.

Job Application & Supplemental Questionnaire may be emailed to HR@ci.austin.mn.us or mailed/dropped off at City Hall, 500 4th Avenue NE, Austin, MN 55912

Required Application Documents Needed to Be Considered for this Position
Job Application
Supplemental Questionnaire

Information Only; Do not Return
Job Description
Benefits Statement

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES (summary)

  • Monitor and maintain treatment equipment, gauges, and pump stations
  • Collect and analyze water samples to ensure regulatory compliance
  • Adjust systems to meet performance standards and report safety concerns
  • Safely dispose of lab-generated hazardous waste
  • Inspect buildings and mechanical systems for proper function
  • Operate and maintain sewage pumps and valves
  • Support clean water and public health

This is a summarized list of responsibilities. A full job description is available in the application packet or on the City’s website. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Associate’s degree or equivalent training at a technical or vocational school with a focus on wastewater technology or related field.

Experience

  • Two (2) years of experience in wastewater field.

TRAININGS, CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES

  • Class B Wastewater Operator License – Required
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License with Air Brake Tanker Endorsement – Required               

However, candidates who meet all other minimum qualifications are encouraged to apply and will be given full consideration.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC UTILITIES
City of Mankato, MN

Salary Range: $50.87 to $68.56 Hourly / $105,809.60 to $142,604.80
Starting Salary: $50.87 to $55.82 Hourly / $105,809.60 to $116,105.60 with advancement
to $142,604.80

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience:
 Bachelor’s degree / four-year degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, or related
field.
 Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in water, wastewater, and/or
storm water operations; with at least four (4) years of experience supervising a major
functional area of public utilities.
OR
 Graduation from a technical college with a degree in water/wastewater technology
and ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience; with at least four (4)
years of experience supervising a major functional area of public utilities.
OR
 Any satisfactory equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that
demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the job
proficiently may be substituted for the above requirements. 
Nature of Work:
Under general direction of the Director of Public Works, the Associate Director of Public
Utilities plays a critical role in the management and administration of various utility services
within the City of Mankato. This position assists with leadership and direction of all divisions
including water treatment, water distribution, wastewater conveyance, wastewater
treatment, laboratory services, and storm water operations. The role requires a strong
understanding of utility operations, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning to ensure
efficient and sustainable services to the community. This position requires a blend of
technical expertise, strategic vision, and strong leadership to address current challenges
and plan for future needs in water, wastewater, and storm water.

View job posting, benefits, and apply online
About Us:

Our employees are committed to working in an environment that fosters the core values of
the City of Mankato – positive attitude, accountability, respect, teamwork, and integrity. We
care about making a positive difference in the lives of others. Our work is challenging and
has purpose. We listen and engage with each other and our community. We are
empowered and trusted to make good decisions that align with the public service principles
and core values. Our organization is committed to investing and developing each other. We
will recognize and celebrate our collective achievements and individual accomplishments. 

We take pride in investing in our employees. Our team enjoys a supportive work
environment that encourages not only success for the community we serve, but for
you as well. Come grow your career with us! 

Primary Essential Work Functions:

 Supervises assigned Public Utilities divisional principal supervisory and
subordinate staff; including, but not limited to:
o Participating in and recommending the selection of new employees.
o Providing the purpose, motivation, and direction on work assignments to
personnel in terms of work methods, safety requirements, level of service
required, and standards of performance expected with the goal of improving
the organization.
o Directing, providing, coordinating, and overseeing principal and subordinate
staff training.
o Reviewing the work performance of employees on a continual basis and
completing performance evaluations on principal supervisory staff within
organizational established timeframes.
o Leading by example to establish and maintain a high level of performance in
a work environment where assigned subordinates are effectively engaged
and motivated to their fullest potential.
o Maintaining discipline through mentoring, training, and corrective action;
assisting in grievances; and recommending discipline for both union and non-
union employees within established organizational policies.
 Develops priorities for new and existing activities within the division:
o Evaluates services provided by the division and develops options for
improving services.
o Assists with presenting information to City Manager, Mayor, City Council and
other departments and divisions.
o Serves as program and/or project manager as assigned.
o Assists in the administrative direction of utility operations programs;
recommends operating policies, rules and procedures.
o Monitors, advises, and implements federal, state and local regulations and
policies as they relate to water, wastewater, and stormwater operations.
o Develops and amends policies and ordinances.
 Prepares budget submittal packets and assists with grant applications:
o Ensures the division’s financial records and budgets are maintained and that
the leadership is properly advised regarding the fiscal position of the
department.
o Recommends changes in spending based on changing conditions to balance
revenues and expenditures.
o Assists with administering contracts and grant revenue and expenditures and
preparation of any required reports or payment claims.
o Assists with purchasing and bid letting to ensure cost efficiency and
compliance with law.
o Prepares and recommends appropriate fee schedules for department
services.
o Develops long-term plans, such as capital improvement plans.

o Assists with development and update of the financial models and review of
industry trends to ensure utility rates are sufficient and sustainable.

 Public relations:
o Builds working relationships with partner agencies, elected and appointed
officials at the federal, state, county, and regional level to be in a position to
advocate for the best interests of the City of Mankato.
o Prepares and assists with presentations to City staff, Council, industry
organizations, schools, and public engagement events.

 Emergency response:
o When directed, serves as liaison to Emergency Management. Attends
numerous planning and operational emergency management functions on
behalf of the City.
o Responds on- and off-duty to emergency service needs and assumes an
appropriate role with the Incident Management System.

 Prepares reports, requests, resolutions, draft ordinances, and other City
Council documentation.
Other Work Functions:
 Performs physical and mental demands and work environment requirements for this
position.
 Attendance during regularly scheduled work hours and outside regular hours as
necessary.
 Effective and respectful communication and interactions with other employees,
supervisors, individuals from other organizations, and community customers.
 Performs other related work as assigned or apparent.
The above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary
by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and
non-essential job duties.
Communicates With:
 Internally – Administrative Services (Administration, Finance, Information
Technology, and Public Utilities), Community Development, Human Resources,
Mayo Clinic Health System (MCHS) Event Center, Public Information, Public Safety,
Water Treatment Plant, Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF), and
Infrastructure Superintendents; and other Public Works Staff
 Externally – General public, contractors, regulatory agencies, private consultant
engineers, vendors, community groups, civic organizations, Blue Earth County,
Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA), Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR), and customer
communities 
Supervision:
 6 direct reports/leads 35

Conditions of Employment:

 Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the state of Minnesota.
 Satisfactory completion of a pre-employment assessment, background examination,
physical examination, and drug testing.
 Must comply with organizational and departmental policies.
 Must comply with data practices policies and standards relative to not public data.
Any access to not public data should be strictly limited to accessing the data that are
necessary to fulfill the employment responsibility. While data are being accessed,
incumbent should take reasonable measures to ensure the not public data are not
accessed by individuals without a work reason. Once the work reason to access the
data is reasonably finished, the not public data must be properly stored according to
city policy and the Minnesota Statutes.
 Safety Sensitive Notice. This is a safety sensitive position which requires cannabis
pre-employment drug testing. Safety sensitive position means a job in which an
impairment caused by drug, alcohol, or cannabis usage would threaten the health
and safety of any person.
Hours of Work:
General working hours are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and outside of regular
work hours as necessary. Must have the ability to field calls after hours as needed.
Flexibility in work hours is expected.

View job posting, benefits, and apply online  

The Public Utilities Director provides leadership and direction relating to the municipal utilities systems including
electric distribution and hydro generation, water treatment and distribution, and wastewater treatment facilities.
Work is performed under the supervision of the City Administrator. The Director exercises general and administrative
supervision over all department employees either directly or through supervisory staff. This position requires a high
degree of communication skills to establish and maintain a positive and productive work environment.

Qualifications

Exceptional interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with the ability to positively interact with
diverse personalities. Has a commitment to ‘no surprises’ and maintains a proactive management style with timely and effective communication with the City Administrator.

Provides visionary leadership in teamwork fashion to develop, articulate, and implement transformational
changes of programs and operations that improve service delivery.

Skilled at supervising and delegating tasks while ensuring quality work performance and accountability. Ability to effectively complete tasks, programs, and projects.

Strong collaborative skills to improve and sustain organizational change and continuous improvement of
relationships, services, and programs.

Has strong innovation skills involving strategic problem-solving and decision-making; ability to collaboratively resolve potentially contentious issues.

Experience with managing/overseeing electrical systems involving generation, transmission, and distribution.

Experience with water and wastewater collection, distribution, and treatment systems.

Knowledge of renewable energy programs and systems.

Strong understanding of applicable state and federal codes, regulations, and permitting requirements
pertaining to utility systems.

Ability to work with technical consultants and engineers pertaining to utility systems.

Knowledge of fund accounting of public enterprise municipal finances as well as rate studies and rate structures
for utility systems.

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, public administration,
business administration, or an equivalent field.

Five years of senior level management municipal and/or utility
related experience of which two years must be as a
department manager or supervisor; or an equivalent
combination of education and experience may be considered.

Knowledge of electrical, water, and wastewater systems.

Utility supervisory experience and knowledge of sustainable
and renewable energy is preferred.

Apply Online