Water Plant Operator

Water Plant Operator I – City of Cedar Rapids

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$26.99/hr - $26.99/hr

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Water Plant Operator to join our Utilities Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of the City’s water treatment facilities to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of potable water to our community in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Operates water treatment plants and remote sites in accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations. Controls, monitors, analyzes, interprets, and evaluates situations and conditions within treatment and distribution processes to comply with Public Water Supply (PWS) Operating Permit, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and local policies. Continuous operations; works under minimal supervision; work schedules are pre‑established; shift vacancies are filled based on operational need;

work is assigned based on operational need; work is repetitive and routine. The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

• Operates water treatment plant processes (lime softening, coagulation, chloramine disinfection, pH adjustment, filtration, fluoridation, corrosion control).
• Operates remote sites (pump stations, distribution storage, wells, and dam).
• Controls and monitors treatment and distribution processes in manual mode or automated mode.
• Collects and appropriately logs data from hardware devices and software applications.
• Collects, analyzes, and interprets water and other process samples; makes adjustments.
• Anticipates distribution system situations and conditions and adjusts treatment and supply.
• Cleans, services, and performs Operator level maintenance on equipment and work areas.
• Occasionally moves up to 55‑pound bags of various chemicals.
• Troubleshoots equipment and performs Operator level corrections.
• Initiates work request for Maintenance level support.
• Receives and logs visitors; provides safety briefing for new visitors.
• Receives shipments and deliveries; processes slips, tickets, invoices, and other documents.
• Monitors and logs daily chemical use and inventory.
• Monitors access control and security system and limits entry and access of non‑essential personnel.
• Successfully completes all required technical, safety and organizational training.
• Conducts plant tours.
• Performs additional duties not specified above.

High school diploma or GED required.

State of Iowa Public Water System Certificate Treatment Grade 1 within twelve months of appointment.

• 12 am – 8 am, including weekends and holidays.

The Water Plant Operator I is covered under the AFSCME Bargaining Union. All new hires begin employment at $26.99 per hour, irrespective of years of experience. Employees receive a step increase on their anniversary. Steps effective 7/1/2025 are:
New Hire $26.99, 1 year $29.87, 2 years $31.65, 3 years $33.39.

Entry level

Full‑time

Manufacturing and Production;
Industries:
Manufacturing