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Position: Water/Wastewater Operator Assistant

Status: Part-Time, 20 hours/week, Non-Exempt, Staff

Department: Water and Wastewater

Reports to: Director of Water/Wastewater

Pay: $20.00 per hour

College Background:

Paul Smith’s College is a private, four-year institution with approximately 750 students in both undergraduate and graduate programs. Known as the “College of the Adirondacks,” we are the only baccalaureate and graduate degree granting institution located within the six-million-acre, world-famous, “forever-wild” Adirondacks in New York’s North Country.

Built on the site of the Adirondacks’ first wilderness resort, Paul Smith’s Hotel, the college is a haven for those who thrive on adventure. We are renowned for our exceptionally hands-on academics, inclusive community, spectacular location, and significant impact on the world around us.

Position Description:

The Water/Wastewater Operator Assistant will support the operation, testing, maintenance, and upkeep of water and wastewater plant facilities at Paul Smith’s College. This part-time position (20 hours per week) is responsible for day-to-day water quality sampling, wastewater monitoring, maintenance tasks, and helping ensure reliable, safe water services.

Schedule: 20 hours per week, with scheduling to be determined in advance. May require occasional flexibility for schedule changes due to operational needs. Must be willing to work occasional weekends and holidays.

Duties & Responsibilities:

+ Collect and perform routine water samples and basic water quality tests as directed.

+ Assist with the day-to-day maintenance and upkeep of water/wastewater treatment facilities, grounds, pumps, and basic mechanical or electrical equipment.

+ Support the inspection, cleaning, and monitoring of plant equipment including tanks, filters, lift stations, and distribution lines.

+ Record test results, maintenance activities, and equipment readings in logs and databases.

+ Notify supervisor of any irregularities, equipment issues, or safety concerns promptly.

+ Help maintain an organized and safe plant environment, including cleaning and basic landscaping as needed.

+ Follow all safety, environmental, and regulatory protocols in plant operations.

+ Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications and Preferences:

+ High school diploma or GED required.

+ Interest or experience in environmental science, water and wastewater treatment, or facilities maintenance preferred.

+ Ability to follow instructions, keep accurate records, and work reliably with minimal supervision.

+ Comfort with light manual labor, adherence to safety standards, and ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

+ Basic computer and recordkeeping skills.

+ Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive campus community.

Paul Smith’s College is an equal opportunity employer. Position descriptions are created that focus on essential functions, using inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary or discriminatory requirements.