Regional Water Reclamation Facility; RWRF Operator

Discover Medford:
Employment, Applicant Support, and Benefits within Our Vibrant City

Keep Medford’s essential wastewater treatment systems running as a Regional Water Reclamation Facility (RWRF) Operator and do work that protects public health and the environment every day. You’ll be part of a team-first operation and may be assigned to plant process control, laboratory analysis, equipment maintenance, or source control based on operational needs. Safety is at the core of every shift, along with clear communication, strong customer service, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

We’re looking for operators with hands‑on wastewater treatment experience, ideally in an activated sludge facility, and an Oregon DEQ Grade I (or higher) certification. Not certified yet? You may qualify for an underfill Operator‑in‑Training pathway with the expectation of obtaining Grade I Treatment certification during probation. This is a 24/7 facility, so candidates must be willing to work various shifts and participate in standby rotation for overtime coverage and emergency response.

If this is the kind of team and work you’ve been looking for, we hope you’ll apply!

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent; and
  • Grade I Wastewater Treatment System Operator Certification required; candidate must currently possess, or be able to obtain, required certification prior to end of probationary period.
  • Or any combination of qualifying education and wastewater treatment experience to qualify for a Grade I (or higher) Treatment Wastewater Operator Certification issued by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
  • Applicants who do not currently possess a Grade I Wastewater System Operator Certification must obtain a Grade I Treatment certification prior to the end of the probationary period. To qualify for this option, applicants must have: (1) a high school diploma or GED equivalent, (2) at least six months of related experience as noted below, and (3) either be enrolled in or have completed a DEQ‑approved training program as listed on the DEQ Wastewater Operator Certification Program website.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license on or before date of hire.
  • New employees establishing resident status in the State of Oregon must obtain an Oregon driver’s license within 30 days.
• Ability to maintain acceptable driving record throughout employment.
• Successful completion of a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.

• Ideal candidate will have 2+ years of direct experience at an activated sludge treatment facility and possess a valid Oregon DEQ‑issued Grade I or higher Wastewater System Operator Certification.
• Related experience will be considered, including wastewater collection systems; drinking water distribution and/or treatment systems; water/wastewater laboratory testing; industrial wastewater pre‑treatment; septic system maintenance; stormwater management; or industrial maintenance.

• After onboarding / training is complete, the employee will work a 4/10 schedule (four 10‑hour shifts) on one of the following:
  • Sunday - Wednesday
  • Wednesday - Saturday
  • Monday - Thursday
  • Tuesday - Friday
• Schedule and shift (day, swing, or graveyard) will be based on operational needs and assigned position.

This position is part of the Teamsters WRD employee group.

Learn more about our benefits HERE.

The anticipated hiring range for the WRD Operator position is $29.34 (first step) to $30.80 or $32.34 (second or third step). The City of Medford determines starting pay based on an evaluation of relevant education, experience, and qualifications as provided by the applicant in their application materials, alongside others who perform work of comparable character consistent with the Oregon Equal Pay Act.

Sixsteps are included in this salary range, allowing opportunity for annual movement through the steps.

• Medical, vision and dental benefits for employee and family, paid at 100% by the City with the opportunity to buy‑up to a lower deductible plan
• Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance – policy value of $50,000 paid by the City
• Long‑ter…