Austin Water Treatment Operations & Maintenance Technician Associate - Water Treatment Plants

Position Overview

The Austin Water Treatment Operations & Maintenance Technician Associate supports both the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment facilities. The role performs routine tasks for plant operation, monitoring, and maintenance under close supervision while developing competencies in both disciplines.

• Assist with process control tasks such as basic flow control, sampling, and laboratory testing.
• Operate pumps and blowers, adjust chemical feeds, and monitor plant equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance: lubrication, oil/fluids changes, and installation of packing, bearings, and seals.
• Conduct predictive and corrective maintenance on specialized equipment (pumps, blowers, clarifiers, valves).
• Complete routine rounds to monitor treatment processes and identify anomalies or mechanical problems.
• Monitor SCADA and control systems, instrument panels, and gauges for basic process changes.
• Maintain operation and maintenance records using log books, databases, and spreadsheets.
• Serve as a member of the Confined Space Entry Team, acting as entrant or assistant.

• General maintenance procedures and practices.
• Basic mathematics (arithmetic, fractions, percentages).
• Computer proficiency, including spreadsheets and database tools.
• Use of hand tools, power tools, and motor vehicles.
• Follow written and verbal instructions; read and follow SOPs.
• Take simple readings from meters, gauges, control panels, and testing equipment.
• Comply with Driver Safety Program requirements for Texas drivers.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year of experience in a similar environment (e.g., stormwater pump stations, plant operations, mechanical maintenance).
• Thirty (30) semester hours of relevant formal education can substitute for one year of experience.

• Class D Water Operator License (TCEQ) within one year of employment.
• Class C Water or Water Distribution License before Class D expires.
• Valid Texas ClassC Driver License (or ability to obtain within the required timeframe).
• Certification in Respiratory Protection and Confined‑Space Entry within six months of employment.

• Work in hazardous atmospheres and permit / non‑permit confined spaces.
• Wear personal protective equipment, including a self‑contained breathing apparatus.
• Climb ladders and work at heights up to 200ft; descend confined spaces up to 100ft.
• Lift, carry, push, pull, kneel, crawl, and bend up to 50lb unassisted.

• Experience repairing mechanical industrial equipment (hydraulic systems).
• Previous water treatment or distribution experience in a municipal system.
• CMMS usage for work orders and asset management.
• Welding experience (oxygen, acetylene torch for cutting, brazing, soldering).
• Knowledge of safety practices for confined space, ladder climbing, water and boat safety, and hazardous chemicals.

Shift patterns vary by plant but generally include 10‑hour or 8‑hour maintenance shifts combined with 12‑hour operation shifts. Rotations may involve 2‑2‑3 or 2‑3‑2 day arrangements with required weekends, holidays, and on‑call duties.

Austin Water offers health and welfare benefits, including medical and paid leave, a retirement plan, training opportunities, and a career progression program that allows credit for on‑the‑job training and licenses.

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. The City also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provides reasonable accommodations as required.