Wastewater Lift Station Operator

Inspects lift stations operations to determine the need for equipment repairs to ensure efficient operations.

Position works outside in all weather conditions and may be exposed to loud noise, dust, dirt, open manholes, street cave-ins, toxic chemicals (hydrogen sulfide), and gases (methane). Safety equipment required includes safety shoes, vests, ear plugs, hard hats, SCBA apparatus, and gloves.

Position involves heavy physical work, exerting over 50 pounds frequently; includes balancing, bending, stooping, climbing, crouching, kneeling, reaching above shoulder height, squatting, and pushing/pulling up to 50 pounds. It requires body agility, working in confined spaces, and using two-way radios, with the ability to hear warning sounds and conversations.

May involve shift work, including holidays, weekends, nights, and overtime, and being on standby. Work may be stressful during emergency situations. The role requires meeting precise standards, managing multiple tasks, working to deadlines, and responding to customer issues. Regular attendance is essential. The position is subject to drug testing according to applicable regulations and policies.

First consideration may be given to current City of Las Cruces employees who meet minimum requirements. Meeting or exceeding qualifications does not guarantee participation in the process.

Full-Time;
Regular;
Non-Exempt;
Union-Represented

Grade: BC14

• Performs daily lift station checks of equipment, including pumps, controls, blowers, generators, and grounds.
• Determines need for repairs or replacements of pumps, valves, meters, gauges, relays, and switches.
• Performs preventive maintenance on cables, bolts, filters, gaskets, seals, bearings; participates in piping and equipment fabrication.
• Provides detailed descriptions of potential problems and specifications for supplies; maintains logs and reports.
• Participates in installation, service, and repair of main lines and manholes; digs manholes; operates pipe locators and motorized vehicles; checks wastewater system stub outs.
• Serves as a member of the confined space entry team; handles emergency calls; trains apprentices.
• Interacts with the public regarding maintenance activities.
• Performs general cleaning, painting, watering, and pruning at lift stations.

Requires a high school diploma and three years of experience in municipal wastewater system construction, with a combination of education, experience, and training permissible.

Valid Class A commercial driver’s license with air brake endorsement and NM Level III Wastewater Operator Certification required. Must have an acceptable driving record.

Wastewater operations, plumbing codes, OSHA, EPA regulations, safety practices, record keeping, research methods, customer service, safety hazards, tools and equipment maintenance, business communication, and city policies.

Operate vehicles and equipment; perform technical reading and writing; work in confined spaces; respond to emergencies; prioritize tasks; ensure customer satisfaction; comply with policies; maintain records; communicate effectively; establish relationships; operate tools and vehicles safely; navigate surfaces; enter data accurately; exercise sound judgment.

Apply rules and regulations; manage assignments; respond to inquiries; work independently or in teams; prepare reports; research and analyze data; operate computers and software; operate vehicles and tools; communicate clearly; resolve conflicts; support assigned tasks effectively.