Utilities Plant Operator I​/II - Water

Job Summary

This position title and job offered to potential candidates for hire will be determined based on candidate's experience, licenses, certifications, and qualifications. Under general supervision from the Water Production Superintendent and/or Water Treatment Plant Chief Operator, this position performs a variety of complex technical and manual tasks in the operation and maintenance of a surface water treatment facility, multiple groundwater production facilities, and water storage facilities.

• Monitors and operates water treatment plant equipment such as pumps, valves, motors, filters, gauges, and meters to ensure proper functioning of the water plant and well sites.
• Monitors and operates water distribution system equipment such as pumps, valves, motors, gauges, and meters, to ensure the proper functioning of the water distribution system.
• Monitors chemical feed systems, chlorine, ammonia, pH, turbidity, and other plant process parameters.
• Monitors water storage tank levels and distribution pressures and makes adjustments needed to meet consumer demand for water.
• Collects water samples and interprets lab results to make process adjustments.
• Maintains daily records and monthly reports on water operations.
• Maintains a clean and safe work area in and around all the plant processes and buildings.
• Completes preventative and corrective maintenance work orders on pumps, motors, gearboxes and other equipment in a timely manner.
• Informs supervisor of all problems, deviations, and unfamiliar situations.
• Adheres to the personnel, safety, and department policies and procedures.
• Assists other coworkers as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Good knowledge of the operation, equipment, and materials used in water plants and pump stations and water distribution systems.
• Must have basic knowledge of computers, SCADA systems, water treatment chemicals and testing procedures relating to drinking water production, math and mechanical skills.

• Must have a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• Two (2) or more years of experience in water treatment operation is required.
• At a minimum, must possess a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class "C" surface water Operator license and a Class "C" groundwater license.
• Must have a valid class "C" Texas driver's license and driving record must be in compliance with city policy.
• Must submit to and pass a post‑offer, non‑regulated drug test and thorough background checks (including criminal history).

• Must possess a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class "C" Surface water Operator license prior to employment offer and be able to obtain a Class "C" Groundwater Operator License within six (6) months from date of hire.
• New employees shall be offered positions according to an individual’s qualifications.
• Existing Operators will be promoted as their qualifications change to meet position requirements.

• Must have a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• Five or more years of experience in water treatment operation is required.

• Must possess a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class "B" Surface Water Operator license and a Class "C" groundwater license.
• Must have a valid class "C" Texas driver's license and driving record must be in compliance with city policy.
• Must submit to and pass a post‑offer, non‑regulated drug test and thorough background checks (including criminal history).
• New employees shall be offered positions according to an individual’s qualifications. Existing Operators will be promoted as their qualifications change to meet position requirements.

We offer a complete benefits package to full‑time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long‑term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Visit our benefits page at City of Athens Benefits Summary.