Plant Mechanic

SALARY: $28.15 –$41.43, Hourly (DOE&Q) NON-EXEMPT
OPENING DATE: 05/14/2026
CLOSING DATE: 05/20/2026

JOB SUMMARY
To perform skilled mechanical work and semi-skilled electrical work in the maintenance, repair, operation and upkeep of water and wastewater treatment plants and related equipment.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the entry-journey level class in the plant mechanic series. Positions assigned to this class can be distinguished from higher level classes by performance of primarily skilled mechanical repairs to water and wastewater equipment and performance of the more routine electrical work. Positions assigned to this class can be further distinguished by lack of lead responsibility for the work of others.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from upper level staff.
EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Participate in the operation, repair, maintenance and upkeep of the city's water and wastewater plants including lift stations, pump stations, storm drain pumping stations, water towers and related facilities.
Maintain a regular inspection schedule of equipment, machinery and facilities; troubleshoot electrical and mechanical aspects of the water and wastewater systems.

Perform general electrical and complex mechanical maintenance and repair tasks in the servicing of the city's water and wastewater systems and equipment including pumps, motors, drive systems and chemical feeders.

Operate some heavy equipment in the maintenance and repair of water and wastewater facilities and systems including backhoes, bull dozers and city vehicles.

Utilize a variety of manual tools to complete assigned projects including shoveling various materials and repairing equipment.

Operate a variety of light electrical equipment including welders, electric meters, torches, air compressors and other similar equipment and machinery in constructing, repairing and maintaining various water and wastewater facilities and systems.

Lubricate and pack pumps, replace worn or damaged parts and troubleshoot pumping machinery.
Clean and check valves, bubbling lines, regulators, compressors and filters; replace bearings, shelves, seals and belts as necessary.
Test generators for efficient and proper operation; identify malfunctions and take corrective action.
Perform a variety of preventive maintenance tasks on pumping and electrical equipment and machinery.
Assist in the design and fabrication of a variety of tools, pumps, valves and piping systems.
Maintain up-to-date and accurate records and logs of operating conditions of pump equipment and work performed.

Participate in a variety of activities involving travel between various city facilities and properties and other related external business and government agencies, which may include facility inspections, preparations and repairs.
May collect samples from by-passes for testing.
May perform various carpentry and painting duties related to assigned projects.

Maintain and service tools and equipment used in plant maintenance.
May assist in preparing, forming and pouring cement.
Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, methods, equipment, materials and tools used in pump machinery maintenance and repair.

Basic record keeping and report preparation techniques.

Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, ordinances and regulations.
City and departmental policies and procedures.
Safe and efficient work practices when working with electrical, and mechanical equipment.

Ability to:
Read and interpret blueprints, construction drawings, and maps.

Identify mechanical and electrical problems and take appropriate corrective action.

Understand and carry out oral and written directions.

Operate some heavy equipment including backhoes and bull dozers.

Operate a motor vehicle.

Operate a variety of light electrical equipment including welders, electric meters, torches, air compressors and other similar equipment and machinery in constructing, repairing and maintaining various water and wastewater facilities and systems.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:

• making observations
• reading and writing
• operating assigned equipment
• communicating with others

Maintain mental capacity which allows the capability of:

• identifying malfunctioning equipment and machinery
• interpreting plans and drawings
• demonstrating intellectual capabilities

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include the following:

• walking, stooping, kneeling, standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• elevating and moving heavy materials and equipment
• climbing ladders and stairs
• operating assigned equipment

Effectively deal with personal danger which may include exposure to:

• hazardous and toxic chemicals and materials
• electrical hazards
• confined or high workplaces
• loud noises
• intense levels of vibration

Communicate effectively.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES - Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
One (1) year of experience in the maintenance and repair of mechanical and electrical machinery.
Training:
Must have completed the twelfth grade and possess a high school diploma or have a GED.

Additional specialized training in mechanics or a related field is desirable.

Plant Mechanic – Wastewater Treatment – Posting #26-022.

CITY OF PORT ARTHUR
Attn: Hiring Manager
P.O. Box 1089
Port Arthur, Texas 77641-1089
(EEO/AA/V/F/RC/H)
The City of Port Arthur is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer