A lifting mechanism for a wastewater plant skimmer arm is provided. The device includes a member. A pair of attaching members are each connected to the member via a hinge. The pair of attaching members are parallel from each other. A skimming member is connected to the pair of attaching members, and parallel to the member. A clamp with a pin is mounted to the member. A flat bar is connected to the clamp and pivots about the pin. The flat bar includes a hook and a plurality of notches. A U-bolt placed on the skimming member includes a rod, that may engage with the hook or a notch of the plurality of notches on the flat bar. The hook may lift the skimming member by engaging with the rod. The desired position of the skimming member may be secured by engaging with a notch of the plurality of notches.